Visit The Outer Banks

Explore Jockey’s Ridge State Park

More than a century after The Wright Brothers came to the Outer Banks, visitors are still attracted by many of the same qualities: welcoming locals, soft ocean air, broad stretches of sand, and a tucked-away feeling far removed from city life. Across the Northern Beaches, natural spaces remain a defining part of the experience, including the 427-acre Jockey’s Ridge State Park, the tallest sand dunes on the east coast, along with preserved forests such as Nags Head Woods and Kitty Hawk Woods.

Jockey’s Ridge State Park is home to the largest natural living sand dune on the East Coast. Visitors can explore two self-guided trails, join nature programs offered year-round, and enjoy activities such as hang gliding, kite flying, and hiking. The park also includes a visitor's center, small gift shop, museum, picnic facilities, and restrooms.

A visitor center with museum connects to a 360-foot boardwalk where exhibits introduce the dune’s ecology and lead gradually into the wide dune field. There are no entry fees. Shoes and sun protection are recommended. Mobility-impaired visitors may call 24-hours in advance to arrange a ride in the park’s all-terrain-vehicle to the top of the dunes.

The soundside access area offers a separate way to experience the park, with opportunities for sunbathing, wading, paddling, and walking a one-mile nature trail that opens into wetlands, grassy dunes, and maritime thickets.

Picnicking at the Park

Climbing to the top of the ridge can make visitors ready for a meal. Near the parking lot, the picnic area provides a place to pause away from the steady wind, sun, and sand. Eight picnic shelters sit among small dunes and low-growing plants. Each shelter includes two tables and a grill, with drinking water and restrooms close by. Shelter use is free unless reservations are requested.

Park Hours

Jockey’s Ridge State Park hours are:

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