A place to engage your senses. The sound of ocean waves, the starry night sky, or the calm of the salt marshes, you can experience it all. Shaped by the forces of water, wind, and storms these islands are ever changing. The plants, wildlife, and people who live here adapt continually. Whether you are walking on the beach, kayaking on the sound, or climbing the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse there is something for everyone to explore!

Explore the Undeveloped Islands of Cape Lookout. A boat ride three miles off-shore brings you to the barrier islands of Cape Lookout National Seashore. Horse watching, shelling, fishing, birding, camping, lighthouse climbing, and touring historic villages--there's something for everyone at Cape Lookout. Be sure to bring all the food, water, and supplies you need (and carry your trash out of the park) when visiting these remote beaches. Harkers Island, North Carolina

Ridge upon ridge of forest straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. World renowned for its diversity of plant and animal life, the beauty of its ancient mountains, and the quality of its remnants of Southern Appalachian mountain culture, this is America's most visited national park.

We in North Carolina are blessed with beautiful beaches, majestic mountains and countless rivers and streams in between. Through these pages you'll learn about our parks and recreation areas and the division's efforts to preserve these pockets of North Carolina's natural beauty.

For 50 years, North Carolina Outward Bound School (NCOBS) has been delivering challenging outdoor adventure programs for people of all ages and walks of life. Every Outward Bound course is built around a progression that delivers powerful life lessons by encouraging participants to safely and confidently step outside their comfort zones while traveling in spectacular wilderness areas. Asheville, North Carolina

Recreational Opportunities on Federal Lands. Recreation.gov is your gateway to discover America's Outdoors and more! Discover which parks, forests, lakes, museums, and areas managed by federal agencies offer recreation opportunities near you or your destination. Explore your America with Recreation.gov! Experience your favorite activities or places and discover new getaways – your adventure beckons!