Cape Lookout National Seashore
4 campgrounds in the park · 114 nearby · 2 free and dispersed sites within 50 mi
Photo: NPS photo
1 current alert
As of Sep 20, 2026 · from nps.gov
- Park closurePassenger Ferry Dock Closed; Visitors Deboard via Beach LandingThe ferry dock servicing the Cape Lookout Lighthouse area is closed for repairs. Visitors will deboard the ferry in front of the lighthouse. To reach the boardwalk, visitors will need to walk 5–10 minutes on soft sand. Depending on the tide, visitors may also need to walk through water.
At a glance
- Open
- Year-round
- In the park
- 4 campgrounds2 reserve on Recreation.gov
- Near the park
- 114 campgroundsWithin 50 mi
- Free and dispersed
- 2 sitesWithin 50 mi
Where to camp
Camping in the park 4
Camping near the park 114
- Aerial viewCampground
The Landing RV Park
3.6 mi · Atlantic, NC
- Aerial viewCampground
Cedar Creek Campground
3.7 mi · Atlantic, NC
Free and dispersed nearby 2
See them on the mapServices nearby: 5 dump stations
About Cape Lookout
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…
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.
Photos: NPS Photo / Sabrina Godin
Things to do
- Auto and ATV
- ATV Off-Roading
- Auto Off-Roading
- Astronomy
- Stargazing
- Boating
- Camping
- Backcountry Camping
- Canoe or Kayak Camping
Plan your visit
Getting there
Cape Lookout National Seashore can be reached without taking a ferry: the Visitor Center on Harkers Island, NC. Please note: the park mailing address does not bring you to the Harkers Island Visitor Center parking lot…
Weather
Spring: Temperatures generally range from 50 F to 70+ F. Rain & wind are common Summer: Temperatures usually range from 80 F to 100 F with high humidity (80-90%). Average wind speed is 10-15 mph. Be prepared with plenty…
Plan your visit
Hours
Cape Lookout National Seashore has 3 offshore barrier islands that are open 24 hours and 365 days a year (weather permitting). Operating hours for visitor centers and other services will vary throughout the year.
Getting there
Cape Lookout National Seashore can be reached without taking a ferry: the Visitor Center on Harkers Island, NC. Please note: the park mailing address does not bring you to the Harkers Island Visitor Center parking lot. If you are using a GPS device - use the parking lot coordinates (34.68494, -74.52725) or the following "address" which approximates the location of the parking lot entrance: 1800 Island Rd, Harkers Island, NC 28531
Weather
Spring: Temperatures generally range from 50 F to 70+ F. Rain & wind are common Summer: Temperatures usually range from 80 F to 100 F with high humidity (80-90%). Average wind speed is 10-15 mph. Be prepared with plenty of water. With little shade on the islands, an umbrella to provide shade from the sun is a good idea. Fall: Temperatures usually range from the high 70 F to the upper 40 F. Winter: Temperatures usually range from 50 F - 32 F. Winds can be strong. Dress in layers.
Camped at Cape Lookout? You could be the first to say which site you'd pick again.
Reviews, photos and cell signal reports from real stays help the next camper choose between Long Point Cabin Camp, Great Island Cabin Camp and North Core Banks - Beach Camping.