Ecological/Environmental activities on the Outer Banks

North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island The North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island presents the aquatic environments of coastal Carolina through its theme "Water of The Outer Banks." The aquarium's variety of exhibits promises to educate and entertain visitors. Journey through coastal freshwaters to see river otters, turtles and American alligators. Explore saltwater habitats from grass flats to Gulf Stream waters. Gently stroke a stingray or touch a hermit crab at the touch tanks. Watch as fish and sharks cruise by the 35-foot long viewing window of the 285,000-gallon "Graveyard of the Atlantic" tank. History buffs will marvel at the one-third scale replica of the USS Monitor. Step into "Storms" to get an inside, personal look at Outer Banks hurricanes and nor'easters. Come face to face with an electric eel, giant tarantula, black widow spider, venomous snakes and lionfish in the newest exhibit, "Bite, Shock, Sting." Special programs daily. (252) 473-3494.


The Cape Hatteras National Seashore is the first recreational area of its kind in the National Park Service. Extending 70 miles from South Nags Head to Ocracoke Inlet, the park includes Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands. There are four National Park Service Campgrounds located along the park. Location: Extends 75 miles from South Nags Head to Ocracoke. Admission: Free Services: Variety of programs available (reservations required). Facilities: Free parking; restrooms.

Jockeys Ridge State Park Jockey's Ridge is the tallest natural sand dune system in the Eastern United States. Located in Nags Head, it is one of the most significant landmarks on the Outer Banks, North Carolina. Always changing, always beautiful… the Friends of Jockey's Ridge State Park invite you to visit and explore. (252) 441-7132.

Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge The 6,000-acre refuge is a haven for more than 360 species of birds, such as Canada geese, snow geese and 25 species of duck during the winter. From spring to autumn, a large variety of wading, shore and upland birds can be seen. The observation platforms are near parking areas. (252) 987-2394 or (252) 987-1118.

The Nature Conservancy at Nags Head Woods More than 1,200 acres of forest have been protected by The Nature Conservancy as an ecological preserve. The preserve is open to the public for hiking, birding and other nature activities. The Conservancy also offers a variety of special programs that require pre-registration. Call (252) 441-2525 for information. Hours: Weekdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Members of The Nature Conservancy may visit anytime. Admission: Donations are requested, fees for programs. Services: EcoCamps for kids, kayak tours, self-guided trails, school group tours, Wild Women Weekend, off-site canoe trips, teacher workshops, family day exploration. Pre-registration required. Facilities: Small gift shop, restrooms, parking lot, self-guided trails.


Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge Alligator River has over 150,000 acres of wetland habitats and a wide variety of wildlife species, ranging from wood ducks and alligators to black bears and red wolves. Plant species, including Atlantic white cedar, bald cypress, and many types of wildflowers and shrubs are abundant. Location: Follow 64/264 west from Manteo. Hours: Refuge open daily during daylight hours. Admission: Free; fee for guided canoe tours. Services: Hiking trail and fishing areas; canoe and kayak trails. Facilities: Wildlife trails, observation platforms; fishing dock (handicapped accessible).