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Cape Lookout National Seashore Still Dealing With Dorian's Impacts

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By NPT Staff - October 4th, 2019
Hurricane Dorian damage to Long Point Cabins at Cape Lookout National Seashore/NPS

While some areas of Cape Lookout National Seashore have reopened in the wake of Hurricane Dorian, the Long Point Cabins aren't expected to reopen this year/NPS file

While Cape Lookout National Seashore has reopened to the public in the wake of Hurricane Dorian, some parts of the national seashore could be tricky to navigate due to breaches in the barrier islands, and some facilities won't be available until next year.

Seashore staff provided the following update on what is, and what is not, open:

  • North Core Banks, including Long Point and Portsmouth Village, is now open for private boat access.  However, visitors should use caution when traveling to North Core Banks!
    • Emergency Response will be difficult, with long response times.  Travel North Core beaches at your own risk!
    • Due to the new inlets that have formed across the natural barrier island, many of which are only passable at low tide, there is only about 10 miles of accessible beach. 
    • Long Point Cabin area is closed to the public; Park staff support and services, will not be available for the remainder of 2019.
    • There is no bath house, and restrooms, water, ice, fuel, or any of the regularly expected amenities are not available until further notice.
    • Vehicle ferry service is closed until further notice.  For more information, contact Morris Marina at: 252-225-4261, or via the web: portsmouthislandfishing.com.
  • Portsmouth Village buildings are stabilized, yet will remain closed for the remainder of 2019.
  • North Core, South Core, and Shackleford Banks are open for day-use and camping.
  • South Core Banks is open to all visitors for beach driving and vehicle camping. Check with ferry services for details on vehicle transportation.
  • Water has been restored to South Core, and Shackleford Banks. All restrooms, water fill stations, rinse off showers, etc. on these islands are functional.
  • Great Island Cabin Camp is open.
    • Hours of operation: 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
  • The Keepers Quarters Museum is open.
    • Hours of operation: 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
  • The Light Station Visitor Center is open.
    • Hours of operation: 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
  • Visitors should prepare for their visit to all Cape Lookout National Seashore beaches:
    • Check weather forecasts, ocean tide charts, and prepare any equipment for isolated beach travel ahead of your trip.
    • Be careful, as there remains an abundance of storm debris on the beaches. 
    • Prepare by bringing water and food and plan to pack out all personal trash. 

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