Cape Lookout National Seashore

Small sandpipers, called Sanderlings, are common sights on the ocean beach as they search for food in the sand between waves
A boat ride three miles off-shore brings you to the barrier islands of Cape Lookout National Seashore. Horse watching, shelling, fishing, birding, camping, lighthouse climbing, and touring historic villages--there’s something for everyone at Cape Lookout. Be sure to bring all the food, water, and supplies you need (and carry your trash out of the park) when visiting these remote beaches.
Map showing location of park.
Grazing Wild Horses on Shackleford
Volunteers Needed for the Pony Patrol
Application open for Pony Patrol volunteers at Cape Lookout National Seashore
Great Island Cabin Camp Reservation Information and Off Road Vehicles Price Change
Preseason sales of Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) permits will be available for purchase starting January 4, 2025, at 10 a.m. (EST), and will cost $35 from January 4, 2025, through March 12, 2025. Regular season ORV permits will cost $75 starting March 13, 2025, through the remainder of the year. The permits must be purchased on Recreation.gov prior to arriving on the island.
: Black & white patterned tower of the Cape Lookout Lighthouse stands against a blue & white cloud f
Photo by NPS photo
Mature sea oat plant seed heads gracefully drooping in the sun
Photo by NPS photo
small sandpipers poke their bills in the sand while waves break in the background
Photo by NPS photo
2 ladies sit in beach chairs on the sand with their feet in the water
Photo by NPS photo
A surf fisherman stands in the water holding his surf rod and watching the waves
Photo by NPS photo