North Carolina Parks and Recreation Areas with Star Gazing

Stretched over 70 miles of barrier islands, Cape Hatteras National Seashore is a fascinating combination of natural and cultural resources, and provides a wide variety of recreational opportunities. Once dubbed the Graveyard of the Atlantic for its treacherous currents, shoals, and storms, Cape Hatteras has a wealth of history relating to shipwrecks, lighthouses, and the U.S. Lifesaving Service. read more...

Phone: 252-473-2111   Price Range: $0 - $20   Open Season: N/A   Camping: Yes
Nearest Popular City: Manteo   Nearest Lake or River: N/A   Park Type: National Park   Activities: Biking / Bicycling, Birding, Boating and Watercraft, Fishing, Hiking, Hunting and Shooting, Kayaking, Swimming, Wildlife Watching, Auto Touring, Nature Walks, Star Gazing   Details Provided By: Cape Hatteras

The Blue Ridge Parkway, sometimes called America's Favorite Drive, provides both stunning scenery and close-up looks at the natural and cultural history of the southern Appalachian mountains. It is designed as a drive-awhile and stop-awhile experience, so please don't be in a hurry. read more...

Phone: 828 298 0398   Price Range: $0 - $14   Open Season: N/A   Camping: Yes
Nearest Popular City: Asheville   Nearest Lake or River: N/A   Park Type: National Park   Activities: Backpacking, Biking / Bicycling, Birding, Boating and Watercraft, Cross Country Skiing, Fishing, Hiking, Horseback Riding, Wildlife Watching, Auto Touring, Nature Walks, Interpretive Programs, Snowshoeing, Star Gazing   Details Provided By: Blue Ridge

The first English attempts at colonization in the New World 1585-1587 are commemorated here. These efforts, sponsored by Sir Walter Raleigh, ended with the disappearance of 116 men, women and children (including two that were born in the New World). The fate of this lost colony remains a mystery to this day. read more...

Phone: 252.473.5772   Price Range: N/A   Open Season: N/A   Camping: No
Nearest Popular City: Manteo   Nearest Lake or River: N/A   Park Type: National Historic Site   Activities: Birding, Hiking, Wildlife Watching, Nature Walks, Star Gazing   Details Provided By: Fort Raleigh National Historic Site

The seashore is a 56 mile long section of the Outer Banks of North Carolina running from Ocracoke Inlet on the northeast to Beaufort Inlet on the southeast. The three undeveloped barrier islands which make up the seashore - North Core Banks, South Core Banks and Shackleford Banks - may seem barren and isolated but they offer many natural and historical features that can make a visit very rewarding. read more...

Phone: (252) 728-2250   Price Range: N/A   Open Season: N/A   Camping: Yes
Nearest Popular City: Harkers Island   Nearest Lake or River: N/A   Park Type: National Park   Activities: Birding, Boating and Watercraft, Fishing, Hiking, Hunting and Shooting, Kayaking, Swimming, Wildlife Watching, Nature Walks, Interpretive Programs, Star Gazing   Details Provided By: Cape Lookout