Jockey’s Ridge in Nags Head

If you’re planning on staying at one of our Nags Head rentals, you will probably be seeing a lot of signs for Jockey’s Ridge State Park. Spring time is probably one of the better times to visit this beautiful park, as the weather is temperate and mild and is often accompanied by a refreshing spring breeze. If you’ve never been to Jockey’s Ridge, you are in for a treat! It is the tallest active sand dune system in the Eastern United States and it’s picturesque dunes are constantly being reshaped by the shifting winds. Because of this, it is often called “The Living Dune.” Jockey’s Ridge is one of the most visited parks in the Outer Banks and for good reason. The view is absolutely amazing and there are several different activities to do or events to take part in while you are there. Jockey’s Ridge is only a short distance from our Nags Head rentals, so make sure that you include this wonderful state park in your vacation itinerary.

The park encompasses three distinct ecological environments: the Dunes, maritime thicket and the Roanoke Sound Estuary. Although the dunes are not home to plants or animals, with the exception of the grasses that take root at the bases of the dunes, the maritime thicket and Roanoke Sound Estuary both provide a rich habitat for an abundance of wildlife such as Hognose snakes, Six-Lined Racerunner, Raccoons, Opossums, Foxes, Deer and Rabbits. Bird watchers will also be delighted by the variety of species of birds that you can see flying over the dunes. Keep a keen eye out for Ospreys, Blue Herons and Brown Pelicans. You’ll want to bring along your camera during your trip to Jockey’s Ridge State Park—there will be several unique photo opportunities you’ll want to take advantage of!

Many visitors choose to get a better view of the park by walking down the 360-foot boardwalk that is located near the parking lot. For those who don’t mind a bit of walking, there is a leisurely paced 1.5 miles trail called “Tracks in the Sand” that goes over the dunes, to the southside and back. The Southside Nature trail is a bit shorter—it is a mile one loop that begins at the southside parking lot and leads to an overlook. Unlike the first trail that focuses on the fragile sand dune environment, this trail focuses on the estuary and scrub thicket ecosystems that can be found there. Don’t leave your shoes behind at ourNags Head rentals, you will need them during your hike!

While you are at the park, you will probably see people soaring above the sand while attached to giant colorful contraptions that look a lot like kites. Hang-gliding is one of the most popular recreational activities on the dunes at Jockey’s Ridge because of the great winds that blow from on top of the dunes. Kitty Hawk Kites offers lessons on top of the dunes and all experience levels are welcome!Sandboarding is also allowed in certain areas of the park, but only during designated times of the year. 

Jockey’s Ridge is one of the most popular locations in the Outer Banks and it is highly recommended that you stop by while vacationing in one of our Nags Head rentals. With its beautiful scenery, abundant wildlife and exciting recreational activities, Jockey’s Ridge State Park remains a favorite among both residents and visitors of the Outer Banks. Also, if you see what you think is a castle peeking out from beneath the sand, don’t worry—you aren’t dreaming! Years ago there was a putt-putt golf course in Nags head. Unfortunately, because of time, wind and erosion, the dunes have been creeping over the “castle” for years!