Getting Oriented
Cape Lookout's three barrier islands, North Core Banks, South Core Banks, and Shackleford Banks, sit off the central North Carolina coast south of Cape Hatteras. None connect to the mainland by road. Vehicles reach North Core Banks by ferry from Atlantic, North Carolina, to Long Point, and South Core Banks by ferry from Davis, North Carolina, to Great Island, both roughly a 45-minute to hour-long crossing that requires an advance reservation.
Trail Overview
Once ashore, driving is limited to North and South Core Banks; Shackleford Banks allows no vehicles at all. The beach itself is the route, 56 miles combined, with a 25 mph speed limit and no driving between or on the dunes. An ORV permit, purchased online through Recreation.gov before arrival, includes a short educational video on off-road driving in the park and must be printed and displayed with a decal on the vehicle.
Points of Interest
- The Cape Lookout Lighthouse, its black-and-white diamond pattern visible for miles down the beach.
- Portsmouth Village, a preserved 19th-century fishing village at the north end of Core Banks.
- Shackleford Banks' wild horse herd, viewable from the water since the island itself is closed to vehicles.
Where to Camp
Primitive backcountry camping is allowed along both banks with no reservation beyond the ORV permit. Great Island and Long Point cabin camps, reached by the same ferries that carry vehicles, offer rustic rental cabins as a roofed alternative.
Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Trip
- Book your vehicle ferry ahead. Cape Lookout Cabins Camps Ferry runs Davis to South Core Banks; Morris Marina Ferry runs Atlantic to North Core Banks. Both require reservations by phone.
- Get your ORV permit and complete the educational video on Recreation.gov before you leave home; it isn't available at the dock.
- Carry all your own food, water, and fuel. There is nothing to buy once you're on the island.
- Watch the tide line. Soft sand and rising water are the two things that strand vehicles here.
Fuel and Water
Fuel, food, and water are in Davis, Atlantic, Harkers Island, and Beaufort before the ferry crossing. Nothing is sold on the islands beyond limited concessions at the cabin camps in season.
Nearby
Beaufort and Harkers Island have services and the Core Sound Waterfowl Museum. The Cape Lookout National Seashore guide covers the wider seashore beyond ORV access.
