National Seashore · North Carolina
Cape Hatteras National Seashore
The sound of ocean waves, the starry night sky, or the calm of the salt marshes, you can experience it all. Shaped by the forces of water, wind, and storms these islands are ever changing. The plants, wildlife, and people who live here adapt continually. Whether you are enjoying the beach, kayaking the sound, or climbing the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse there is something for everyone to explore!
Things to do
- Auto and ATV
- Auto Off-Roading
- Astronomy
- Stargazing
- Camping
- Car or Front Country Camping
- Group Camping
- RV Camping
- Fishing
- Saltwater Fishing
- Food
- Picnicking
- Hiking
- Hunting and Gathering
- Hunting
- Paddling
- Canoeing
- Kayaking
- Junior Ranger Program
- Snorkeling
- Surfing
- Swimming
- Saltwater Swimming
- Wildlife Watching
Weather & when to go
The weather along the Outer Banks varies throughout the year and even throughout the day. Please check the National Weather Service information at http://www.weather.gov/mhx/ for forecast information.
Operating hours
Park Grounds
The grounds of Cape Hatteras National Seashore are always open for visitors, though there are resource closures that seasonally affect different parts of the beach.
Campgrounds
Ocracoke Campground
Oregon Inlet Campground
Frisco Campground
Cape Point Campground
FAQ
- Is Cape Hatteras National Seashore free to visit?
- Cape Hatteras National Seashore does not charge a standard entrance fee. Check the official NPS page for the latest details on any activity or permit fees before you go.
- What are the hours at Cape Hatteras National Seashore?
- The grounds of Cape Hatteras National Seashore are always open for visitors, though there are resource closures that seasonally affect different parts of the beach.
- Do I need a reservation for Cape Hatteras National Seashore?
- No timed-entry reservation is currently required to enter Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Campgrounds and permits may still need to be booked separately on Recreation.gov.
Related guides
Trip plans and deep-dives from the PeepTrip blog featuring Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
