Jockey's Ridge State Park

What You’ll Find at Jockey’s Ridge

Sand Dunes

• The main feature of the park is its constantly shifting dunes, which can reach heights of over 80 feet depending on wind and weather patterns.
• Visitors are free to walk, run, slide, or fly kites on the dunes. There are no trails on the sand, but it’s an easy uphill climb to the top.

Soundside Access

• The park includes a separate access area on the Roanoke Sound, ideal for wading, kayaking, and kiteboarding.
• This side is more peaceful and shaded, with shallow water and picnic areas.

Visitor Center

• Features museum-quality exhibits on dune ecology, local wildlife, and park history.
• Gift shop, restrooms, and a covered observation deck are available.
• The center is located at the main parking lot off US-158.

Boardwalk and Trails

• A 360-foot boardwalk takes visitors from the parking area to the edge of the dune field.
• The park also includes a nature trail through a maritime thicket near the soundside access.

Activities at Jockey’s Ridge

Hang Gliding

• The park is one of the only places in the U.S. where you can hang glide from a natural dune.
• Lessons and tandem flights are available through Kitty Hawk Kites (concessionaire located on-site).
• Beginner classes include training time plus a series of low-altitude flights.
• Hang Gliding Spectacular Annual Event in May

Kite Flying

• The wide open dune tops and steady ocean breezes make it one of the best places in the country to fly a kite.
• Kite festivals are held here seasonally, including the annual Rogallo Kite Festival.

Sunset Viewing

• Due to its location and height, the ridge offers one of the best sunset views in the Outer Banks.
• Visitors often walk to the top of the dunes just before dusk to watch the sun set over Roanoke Sound.

Photography

• The dunes and surrounding terrain create dramatic shadows and color during sunrise and sunset.
• Tripods and drones are permitted (within guidelines), making it a popular spot for landscape photography.

Know Before You Go

• Location: 300 W Carolista Dr, Nags Head, NC 27959
• Hours: Open daily; hours vary by season. The dune area typically closes 15 minutes after sunset.
• Fees: Free admission and parking. Some activities like hang gliding have separate costs.
• Footwear: The sand can be hot—wear closed-toe shoes or visit in the morning or evening during summer.
• Accessibility: The boardwalk and visitor center are accessible. The dune field is not wheelchair-friendly.

• Nags Head Fishing Pier (1.5 miles south)
• Jennette’s Pier (3 miles south)
• Wright Brothers National Memorial (6 miles north in Kill Devil Hills)

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