Press Release
Ocracoke Campground Opens May 22

NPS lifeguards go on duty May 23rd.

Status of Operations at Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, and Wright Brothers National Memorial

For the purpose of staying healthy while following guidance from the White House, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and state and Dare and Hyde County public health authorities, Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, and Wright Brothers National Memorial are increasing recreational opportunities on May 22.

Park lands remain accessible, including boat ramps and the Oregon Inlet Fishing Center. The parks are working with federal, state, and local authorities to closely monitor the COVID-19 pandemic and using a phased approach to increase access on a park-by-park basis.

"We are pleased to be part of the community's thoughtful efforts to welcome visitors back to the Outer Banks and incrementally provide services and experiences," stated National Parks of Eastern North Carolina Superintendent, David Hallac.

South Point Road sunset
South Point Road sunset

Beginning May 22, the following services will be available:

Beginning May 23, the following services will be available:


With public health in mind, the following facilities and activities remain closed: As North Carolina eases some COVID-19 restrictions, the NC Department of Health and Human Services and local public health officials are asking people that leave home to remember the Three W’s – Wear.Wait. Wash.
While these areas are accessible for visitors to enjoy, a return to full operations will continue to be phased and services may be limited. When recreating, the public should follow the Center for Disease Control, Dare and Hyde County, and state guidelines and orders including:

The health and safety of our visitors, employees, volunteers, and partners continues to be paramount. Our operational approach will be to examine each facility function and service provided to ensure those operations comply with current public health guidance and will be regularly monitored. We continue to work closely with the National Park Service’s Office of Public Health using CDC guidance to ensure public and workspaces are safe and clean for visitors, employees, partners, and volunteers. While many areas are accessible for visitors to enjoy, a return to full operations will continue to be phased and services are limited. When recreating, the public should follow local area health orders, practice Leave No Trace principles, avoid crowding, and avoid high-risk outdoor activities.

CDC has offered guidance to help people recreating in parks and open spaces prevent the spread of infectious diseases. We will continue to monitor all park functions to ensure that visitors adhere to CDC guidance for mitigating risks associated with the transmission of COVID-19 and take any additional steps necessary to protect public health.   Details and updates on operations will continue to be posted at