NPS Update on Ocracoke

Ocracoke Updates

• The first half of the Hammock Hills Nature Trail was recently reopened. The remaining half of the trail will reopen when the boardwalks are fully repaired.

• Silver Lake/Visitor Center public restrooms have reopened.

• Ocracoke Campground will reopen for the 2020 camping season on Friday, April 10. The campground kiosk was seriously damaged during Hurricane Dorian and will not be open by the beginning of the camping season. Camping reservations can be made at www.recreation.gov.

• The Ocracoke Beach Access parking area and new restroom facility are expected to open by the middle of April.

• The Ocracoke Visitor Center took a heavy hit from Hurricane Dorian. The Seashore anticipates being able to reopen the visitor center Memorial Day weekend.

• The Seashore’s public boat ramps are open.

• Ocracoke ponies are doing well and can be viewed daily at the pony pen

Community Discussion – Ocracoke Island

• Date: February 27 from 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
  

  Ocracoke Lighthouse on May 29, 1941. Notice the black trim on the window sashes and the exterior parge finish of the lighthouse before the application of the thick shotcrete coating (sometimes called gunite) in the early 1950s.
• Location: Ocracoke Community Center
• Description: Superintendent Hallac invites the public to visit with staff and watch a presentation on visitation patterns and park activities during the 2019 season. A question and answer session will follow the presentation.

Other Seashore Updates

• The Seashore will celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse at a special event this December 16th. More details to follow.

• Beach visitors are encouraged to sign up for beach safety text messages by texting “Join OBXBeachConditions” to 30890. Visit Love the Beach, Respect the Ocean for important beach and ocean safety information.

• For current beach access information, go to: http://go.nps.gov/beachaccess.

• A Tideland Electric Membership Corporation project to improve the reliability of electric service to Ocracoke Island is over 50% complete. View the most recent update on Facebook.

   

  The three vintage photos were taken by a U.S. Coast Guard inspector on May 29, 1941. They were taken prior to the transfer of the Ocracoke Light Station from the U.S. Coast Guard to the National Park Service.

  

  Ocracoke Light Station on May 29, 1941
  

  View from the Ocracoke Lighthouse on May 29, 1941.