The rolling sand dunes, expansive marshland and picturesque seashore of the Outer Banks are home to a diverse group of native plants and wildlife. Fortunately state and national parks, preserves and refuges protect much of the area. Between refuges in the marsh and nationally protected seashore, you can experience a form of the Outer Banks that is untouched by commercialism and houses. Visiting Outer Banks wildlife refuges and parks is a great activity to enjoy during your vacation. Climb to the top of Jockey’s Ridge State Park for a panoramic view of the sound and ocean. Enjoy one of the paddle trails in the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge where you might see a black bear or an endangered red wolf. Visit Portsmouth Island to check out the abandoned village or relax on the spacious beach. Alternate meandering through downtown Manteo with exploring the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Refuges Visitor Center in Northern Roanoke Island where you can enjoy interactive exhibits and learn from the different programs offered. Whatever type of terrain you prefer to experience, Outer Banks wildlife refuges and the programs they offer are available to get the best fit for you. Browse through the listings below to see all of the different wildlife refuges on the Outer Banks.
Outer Banks Attractions by Area
Corolla | Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills & Nags Head
Roanoke Island & Manteo | Hatteras Island | Ocracoke Island
Outer Banks Attractions by Category
This outfitter takes passengers to Portsmouth Island for four-hour excursions on a remote, uninhabited island. The boat can take up to 12 passengers and...read more
Brothers Rudy and Donald Austin, both former ferry captains, offer boat tours to historic Portsmouth Island. Departing daily from Silver Lake Harbor at the...read more
Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge is the only place in the world where endangered red wolves exist in the wild. To learn more about the endangered...read more
The proximity of the Gulf Stream, Continental Shelf and Labrador Current make Cape Hatteras a dynamic environment that attracts a plethora of sea birds....read more
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s LEED–certified visitor center is on the north end of Roanoke Island near the entrance to Fort Raleigh National...read more
Wings Over Water Wildlife Festival is an annual six-day celebration devoted to celebrating the wild side of the Outer Banks and the surrounding region. Held...read more
