Special Use Permit - Camping (Groups)

Very few places are left where you can camp directly on the beach; Cape Lookout National Seashore is one such place. All camping within the park is primitive beach camping: there are no designated campgrounds. Groups of 25 or more require a permit for camping. Camping is limited to 14 consecutive days. Because it disturbs vegetation, do not camp on top of the dunes. For more information on camping in the park, visit our Beach Camping webpage.

Groups are welcome to camp with their vehicles; however, vehicles must be kept on the oceanside beach seaward of the primary dunes, not between or on top of dunes. Drivers must follow the regulations for off-road vehicles (ORVs) outlined on the Beach Driving section of the website. Vehicles are not permitted on Shackleford Banks. Parking permits are required for vehicles located in long-term parking lots. No vehicle may be left unattended for over 24 hours without a permit or in any area other than the long-term parking lots. For more information, visit the Long-Term Parking Permits webpage.

Location
Please indicate the specific location on the application. The Special Use Permit does not allow your camping activity to restrict other park visitors from your chosen location nor does it guarantee you a specific site.

The following areas are restricted for camping (are generally not available for camping):

• Harkers Island Visitor Center / Administrative Site
• Portsmouth Village
• Cape Lookout Light Station complex
• Cape Village (including the Cape Lookout Coast Guard Station)
• Property held under private lease
• Great Island and Long Point Cabin areas
• Long Term Parking areas

How to Apply

Step 1: Complete Your Application

• Fill out all required sections of the Special Use Permit application.

• Include all required supporting documentation.

Step 2: Save Your Application

• Download or save your completed application.

• Keep a copy for your records and for submission by email.

Step 3: Submit Payment Through Pay.gov

• Open the designated Pay.gov payment form.

• Enter the requested information.

• Select the fee amount that matches your special use permit application

• Review your information and follow the instructions to submit your non-refundable payment.

Step 4: Save Your Payment Receipt

• Once payment is complete, Pay.gov will provide confirmation and email receipt.

• Save or download your receipt as proof of payment.

Step 5: Email Your Application and Receipt

Email the following to [e-mail]

• Completed permit application

• Required supporting documentation

• Pay.gov payment receipt

What Happens After You Apply?

Park staff will:

1. Review your application and support documents.

2. Contact you if additional information is needed.

3. Evaluate the proposed activity and coordinate with other park divisions, if necessary.

4. Determine any additional requirements or fees.

5. Approve or deny the request.

Processing Time: Please allow at least 10 business days for processing. Complex requests may take longer. Submit your application well in advance of your planned activity.

Permit Approval and Issuance

If approved, park staff will:

• Contact you regarding any additional requirements or applicable fees.

• Email your permit for review and signature.

• Provide instructions for completing the permit process.

Your permit will outline the approved activities, dates, locations, conditions, restrictions, and any other requirements.

Important: You may not begin your activity until you have received a fully executed Special Use Permit from the National Park Service.

Permit Fee Authority

The National Park Service is authorized under 54 U.S.C. 103104 and 54 U.S.C. 200101 to recover costs associated with managing special park uses. These fees are intended to cover administrative and operational costs, not generate revenue beyond actual expenses.