Permits & Reservations

Permits

Some activities within Cape Lookout National Seashore require a Special Use Permit to be issued. Below are listed the most common activites that require a permit.

Long-Term Vehicle Parking This special permit allows surf fishermen and 4-wheel drive vehicle campers to leave their vehicle in one of the approved lots on the islands during the season. Learn more about this type of parking permit. The permit application is available on the special use permit page.

Camping (Groups of 25 or Larger) Most family camping does not require a permit. But if you are bringing a group of 25 people or more you need to apply for a permit. Learn more about the group camping permit.

Temporary Duck Blinds (During Hunting Season) Waterfowl hunting is permitted on the seashore. A lottery is held in September for permits to build a temporary blind on the seashore. Learn more about the process on the Temporary Duck Blind Information page.

Other activites that require the use of a permit:

  • Weddings
  • Scientific Research and Collecting
  • First Amendment Activities
  • Cremains (Scattering of Human Ashes)
To learn more about the permits for these and other group activities please see our Special Use Permits page.

NEW for 2021 Updated information on Commercial Filming/Still Photography requirements and answers to frequently asked questions about commercial filming in the parks is found on its own page.

Reservations

A little planning goes a long way toward having an enjoyable stay at Cape Lookout National Seashore. Reservations are highly recommended if you plan on staying in the Great Island Cabins or Long Point Cabins. We also recommend that you make reservations if you plan to use one of our authorized ferry services to access the islands.

Lighhouse climb tickets are not reservable. They are sold on a first-come, first-served basis. However, tickets for Evening at the Cape and Horse Sense and Survival Tours are reservable.

Last updated: February 3, 2021

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

131 Charles St
Harkers Island, NC 28531

Phone:

252 728-2250

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