Jockey's Ridge State Park
North Carolina State Park
Jockey's Ridge State Park entrance fee
Free entry — There are no fees required to access Jockey's Ridge State Park for day use. Fees are charged for certain event permits and facility reservations.
Jockey's Ridge State Park hours
January–February: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
March–April: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
May–September: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
October: 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
November–December: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The park is open during all other holidays.
Hours as published by NC State Parks. Check the official page before a long drive.
About Jockey's Ridge State Park
The tallest living sand dune system on the Atlantic coast, and the eastern terminus of the Mountains-to-Sea State Trail. Fly a kite, take a hang gliding lesson from the concessionaire, or cross to the Roanoke Sound access for swimming and windsurfing.
Things to do
- 🥾 Hiking
- 🛶 Paddling
- 🏊 Swimming
- 🐦 Birding
Amenities & facilities
- 🌞 Day Use Only
More North Carolina state parks with swimming
State Trails
North Carolina’s designated long-distance state trails run through this park.
Contact
Phone252-573-6108
Address300 W. Carolista Drive, Nags Head, NC 27959
Upcoming events at Jockey's Ridge State Park
- Soundside Loop Nature Trail Hike (multiple dates)
- Holiday Star Party Food Drive 2026
- Dune Hike (multiple dates)
- In the Park After Dark - Night Hike
- Turkey Time - Creature Feature
- Kites with Lights
- Holiday Hike to the Light and S'mores
- Christmas Critter Creation Activity for Kids
- Christmas Eve Dune Hike
Event details and registration are on the NC State Parks calendar.
🎒 Gear up for Jockey's Ridge State Park
Popular gear for what this park offers:
- Kayaks
- Binoculars
- Hiking boots
- Water shoes
- Bug spray
- Paddleboards
- Dry bags
- Life jackets
- Spotting scopes
- Bird guides
- Daypacks
- Trekking poles
- Quick-dry towels
- Sunscreen
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