Cape Hatteras National Seashore - NPS Lifeguard Beach Operations And Cape Point Campground Close For The Season; Reduced Climbing Hours For Cape Hatteras Lighthouse (U.S. National Park Service)

Date: September 2, 2009
Contact: Outer Banks Group, 252-473-2111

Cape Hatteras National Seashore lifeguard beach operations at Coquina Beach and Ocracoke will close Monday, September 7th at 5:30 p.m. for the 2009 season. In addition, the Cape Point campground closes on Monday, September 7th at 12 noon; however, Frisco and Oregon Inlet Campgrounds remain open until October 12th and Ocracoke Campground remains open until October 26th.

Fall visitors are reminded to check with local weather sources for updated surf and rip current conditions before going to the beach. Planning your visit to Cape Hatteras National Seashore will enhance your enjoyment and your safety. Please observe all rules and regulations for your safety. Know your limits and understand the hazards. For more information on rip currents, check the website at www.ripcurrents.noaa.gov.

Visitor Centers at all park sites will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily. The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will be open for climbing from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily beginning Tuesday, September 8th; tickets are sold from 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Children must be at least 42” tall to climb the lighthouse. The lighthouse closes for the 2009 season on Columbus Day, Monday, October 12th.