North Carolina park closures & advisories

National Park Service

The entire beachfront in front of Buxton Village is temporarily closed to public entry due to the presence of threatened oceanfront structures.

Updated Jul 7, 2026

National Park Service

The ferry dock servicing the Cape Lookout Lighthouse area is closed for repairs. Visitors will deboard the ferry in front of the lighthouse. To reach the boardwalk, visitors will need to walk 5–10 minutes on soft sand. Depending on the tide, visitors may also need to walk through water.

Updated May 27, 2026

National Park Service

Sparks Lane & Parson Branch Road are closed due to high water. Updated 7/24/2026

Updated Jul 24, 2026Official notice ↗

National Park Service

Park Headquarters Road is closed due to rehabilitation work on the Sugarlands water and wastewater systems.

Updated Jun 26, 2026

National Park Service

Straight Fork and the one-way section of Balsam Mountain Road (Heintooga Round-Bottom Road) are closed.

Updated Nov 12, 2025Official notice ↗

National Park Service

Beginning Sept. 8, Cape Hatteras National Seashore will close the Billy Mitchell Airport (HSE) to accommodate a runway pavement rehabilitation project. The project will provide full resurfacing of paved areas, new reflective paint, and new tie-downs and anchors, improving visitor safety and enhancing the overall visito…

Updated Jun 29, 2026Official notice ↗

National Park Service

Visitor Center and Bookstore hours are Tues - Sun 9-5. It is currently a .7 mile hike from the main parking lot and a .4 mile walk to the historic area from the Hikers Lot. Please keep this in mind. If you have access needs, please call the number posted in the parking lot.

Updated Apr 27, 2026

National Park Service

Cades Cove Loop Road is closed to motor vehicles every Wednesday through September 30. This allows pedestrians and cyclists to enjoy the cove without the presence of vehicles on the roadway.

Updated May 27, 2026Official notice ↗

National Park Service

All vehicles parking for longer than 15 minutes require a parking tag. Three tag durations are available for purchase for all vehicle sizes and types: Daily ($5), Weekly ($15), or Annual ($40).

Updated Feb 8, 2024Official notice ↗

National Park Service

The Moores Creek Visitor Center/Bookstore is open Tuesday to Saturday from 9 am until 5 pm. Park grounds are open seven days per week from 9 am until 5 pm.

Updated Nov 13, 2025

National Park Service

Fires are permitted only in designated areas and under specific conditions. A fire may be ignited and maintained only by using fuel sources designed and commonly used for warmth or the preparation of food, such as charcoal briquettes or natural firewood. Lighting or maintaining a fire with other materials including, bu…

Updated Sep 19, 2025

National Park Service

Before hiking at Moores Creek, make sure to bring all your necessary medications, sunscreen, bottled water for hikes, loose fitting clothes for hiking, and any other items you may need.

Updated May 27, 2020