Jockey's Ridge State Park
add photosThere are many reasons why millions of people visit Jockey's Ridge State Park. Some come to see the tallest sand dune on the Atlantic coast; others come for the spectacular sunsets.
At Jockey's Ridge State Park you can experience the world of the desert. Shifting sands, high winds, extreme temperatures and a lack of water make the park resemble barren environments such as the Sahara Desert. You also can explore the wonders of an estuarine environment. The tidal waters of the Roanoke Sound, the western boundary of the park, is a rich habitat for a variety of plant and animal life, making these waters the source of much of the sea's bounty.
Whatever the reason for a visit to Jockey's Ridge, a trip to this unique park will give you even more reasons to come back again and again.
November – February 8:00 am — 6:00 pm
March, October 8:00 am — 8:00 pm
April, May, September 8:00 am — 8:00 pm
June – August 8:00 am — 9:00 pm
5 Reviews for Jockey's Ridge State Park
2
00 families found this helpful
"A great place to burn energy"
The biggest sand dune the kids have ever seen, a great place to run around and burn off energy. From the top there is a panoramic view from Sound to Sea. Lots of activities and serveral kite fliers. If you time it right you can watch the hang gliders.
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0 families found this helpful
"great sunset trip..."
This is the place to be for a beautiful sunset in the sound, or to go sit and watch people fly kites..You can see the atlantic ocean on one side and the pamlico sound on the other..Its a good walk up t othe top but its worth it for the views..we love this and go every visit...
0 families found this helpful
"Perfect Foot Pedicure"
If hang gliding is a little too adventurous for your family, it’s almost as much fun to sit back and watch it being done at Jockey’s Ridge State Park. This is the site of the largest sand dune on the East Coast, located on US 158. Most people come here to climb the 140-foot dune, while others come to fly kites in the wide-open, 414-acre park. Walking across the vast white sand almost makes you feel like you’re walking across the desert. Unlike desert wilderness areas, it has picnic facilities available.
0 families found this helpful
"My kids call it "Sand Mountain"."
This is like the biggest sandbox you have ever seen. At the top of Jockey's Ridge, you can see almost all of Nags Head! You can get some amazing pictures from that height.
For little ones, the uphill trek can be a bit much. You may spend a lot of time carrying them. Don't forget your sunscreen/bug spray.
For big and little kids, and those who are kids at heart, you could spend hours digging in the sand, sliding down the giant hill. Just don't go to Jockey's Ridge on a particular windy day. The sand will sting your legs and arms, get into your hair and mouth.... not especially fun.
There is a small museum and gift shop with heat/AC and ample bathroom facilities.
Warning: Be careful if you wear sandals or take off your shoes, you might end up with burrs or stickers in your feet.
3 families found this helpful
"Jockey's Ridge State Park"
There are bathrooms, an interactive interpretive center and activities for the children to participate in, but the draw of this state park is the massive sand dunes. You can hike to the top of the shifting sands. While there you can watch others hang gliding and flying kites. Nature's best sandbox!
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