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The Outer Banks of North Carolina - Driving Tour

By Sheridan Alexander, About.com

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Jockey's Ridge State Park

Jockey's Ridge State Park

Jockey's Ridge State Park

Photo courtesy of NC Division of Tourism, Film and Sports Development
Jockey's Ridge State Park is a fascinating 420-acre park and recreational area where visitors are able to explore the highest sand dunes on the entire Atlantic coast. Consisting of three peaks, this constantly shifting ridge is often referred to as The Living Dune.

At its peak, Jockey's Ridge is more than 100 feet tall, making a climb to the top a popular but strenuous endeavor, especially during the heat of summer. Other areas to explore include the Maritime Thicket and the Roanoke Sound Estuary. PDF Park Map

Location

The park entrance is in the town of Nags Head at milepost 12 on the Hwy 158 Bypass at Carolista Drive.

Park Hours

  • November – February 8 a.m. — 6 p.m.
  • March and October 8 a.m. — 7 p.m.
  • April, May and September 8 a.m. — 8 p.m.
  • June – August 8 a.m. — 9 p.m.
  • Closed - Christmas Day

Park Facilities

  • Visitor Center
  • Museum and Auditorium
  • Picnic shelters
  • 384-foot Boardwalk offering a spectacular view of Jockey's Ridge
  • Note: There are no camping facilities.

Things to Do

  • Explore self-guided hiking trails
  • Hang-gliding - USHGA Hang 1 or other agency-approved rating card and registration at the park office required
  • Kite flying
  • Sand-boarding in a designated area of the park from October 1 to March 31 - park office permit required
  • Kayaking, windsurfing and swimming permitted at the sound-side access

Additional Information

Jockey's Ridge State Park Web Site

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