Cape Lookout National Seashore

Show on map (252) 728-2250 calo_vc@nps.gov

131 Charles St
Harkers Island, NC 28531

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.

Directions

Cape Lookout National Seashore can be reached without taking a ferry: the Visitor Center on Harkers Island, NC. Please note: the park mailing address does not bring you to the Harkers Island Visitor Center parking lot. If you are using a GPS device - use the parking lot coordinates (34.68494, -74.52725) or the following "address" which approximates the location of the parking lot entrance: 1800 Island Rd, Harkers Island, NC 28531

Reviews

Cape Lookout National Seashore provides a remote and peaceful beach experience with rustic cabins offering basic shelter and amenities. Guests appreciate the natural beauty, helpful and friendly staff, and excellent opportunities for fishing and outdoor activities. However, the cabins often require maintenance and show signs of wear, with common issues including pest problems, inconsistent hot water, and limited facilities. Preparation for heat, insects, and self-sufficiency is recommended to enhance the experience.

Beautiful and remote beach location

Helpful and friendly staff and volunteers

Rustic cabins with essential amenities

Great fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities

Peaceful setting ideal for relaxation and nature exploration

Cabins often need repairs and maintenance

Common pest problems including ants, roaches, mice, and bedbugs

Inconsistent or weak hot water supply

Limited amenities and facilities

Heat, insects, and sandy conditions can affect comfort

538 reviews

5 stars

327

4 stars

125

3 stars

2 stars

1 stars

John B

Campground:Great Island Cabin Camp

Loop:Gi

Site:

Reviewed 13 days ago

We had a great time. The staff was excellent to work with. Definitely will be back again.

Jonathan T

Campground:Great Island Cabin Camp

Loop:Gi

Site:

Reviewed 16 days ago

I absolutely hate to do this, but it has to be told. The cabins are just that, cabins and I understand that. The main problem is the cabin we had (#7) was infested with bed bugs. I woke up at 2:30 in the morning being absolutely chewed! (and still had four more nights!) I believe that is the last time I will stay at the cabins. I know it's no fault of the rangers or volunteers, it's folks being nasty that brought them to the cabins.

Jacqueline M

Campground:Great Island Cabin Camp

Loop:Gi

Site:

Reviewed 18 days ago

The cabins seem to be in the midst of renovations. Some have new windows, exterior paint, etc. Some do not. We’ve stayed during one of the hottest period of time this summer, and while it was obviously warm, it wasn’t unbearable. This place is magical and wild. If you don’t mind planning and packing for a trip where the only items at your destination are a bed, shower, and cooking implement, it’s worth it. The interior photos are accurate. If you are expecting a beach house, this is not the place for you. If you have a heart for adventure and a love of all things nature, it may become the place you can’t wait to return to. It’s become that place for me.

richard r

Campground:Great Island Cabin Camp

Loop:Gi

Site:

Reviewed 24 days ago

Cape Lookout and they stay at Great Island Cabins is amazing!! This was my eighth year there and each year is even more rewarding!! It’s a peaceful place to visit as I recommend it to anyone who likes to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Will be back again next year for sure!!!!

Dustin L

Campground:Great Island Cabin Camp

Loop:Gi

Site:

Reviewed 25 days ago

Best kept secret on the eastern seaboard. Hands down.

Andy C

Campground:Great Island Cabin Camp

Loop:Gi

Site:

Reviewed a month ago

As always, the staff are extremely friendly and knowledgable. The weather was not the best, but still able to get out there and find some fish.