- State: NC
- NPCA Region: Southeast
- Est. Date: 1966
Air Quality Conditions
View the Polluted Parks ReportVisibility
Unsatisfactory
Health
Unsatisfactory
Nature
Significant Concern
Climate Change Threats
Visitors can only get to the remote beaches on these barrier islands by taking a boat to one of the park’s five ferry landings. Aside from a few historic buildings, including the park’s checkered lighthouse, the beaches are wild and undeveloped, with little company, aside from shorebirds, marine animals and more than 100 wild horses that roam the islands. The park offers an idyllic setting for beachcombing, fishing, birdwatching, lighthouse climbing and touring historic villages dating back to Colonial times.
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Blog Post
See a Sky Full of Stars at These Certified Dark-Sky Parks
Lay out a blanket after the sun goes down and see a clearer view of the galaxy at these designated dark-sky parks.
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Blog Post
11 of America’s Best National Park Beaches
Need some sun and surf in your travel plans? NPCA staff highlight top beach vacation spots at national parks around the country.
More about Cape Lookout
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Read more about Get Your Binoculars: The 25 Best National Parks for Birding
Blog Post Get Your Binoculars: The 25 Best National Parks for Birding Find out which national park sites have the most bird species, with a highlight of what you might see at each place.
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Read more about 5 Wild Places for a Beach Vacation
Blog Post 5 Wild Places for a Beach Vacation An advocate for vehicle-free beaches praises some of the last undeveloped places along America’s coasts — and why protecting these untamed lands is so important.
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