By Chelsea Reed
The Outer Banks is a National Park playground! There are at least eight National Parks, Seashores, Reserves, and Wildlife Refuges spanning from the coast of Currituck to Cape Lookout, NC. That’s not to mention the many other National historic sites and lighthouses to explore. All of these special places are the testimony of America’s beauty.
President Franklin Roosevelt once said, “There is nothing so American as our national parks…. The fundamental idea behind the parks…is that the country belongs to the people, that it is in process of making for the enrichment of the lives of all of us.” To celebrate National Parks, we’re showcasing original art inspired by these local natural wonders.
Coquina Beach, Cape Hatteras National Seashore
By Janet Groom Pierce
Cape Hatteras National Seashore is the largest national parkland in the Outer Banks. It spans over 70 miles from Nags Head to Ocracoke. Coquina Beach is a beautiful area across the Bodie Island Lighthouse. It’s named after the coquina clams digging in the sand there. You’ll also find mysterious old homes in the dunes. These buildings are empty and cared for by the National Park Service.
Wright Brothers National Memorial
By Sun Bauer
This famous memorial honors the Wright brothers’ achievement of the first successful machine powered flight. Thanks to their courage and determination, our world is forever changed. The park includes walking paths, museums, events, and a great view!
Ocracoke Lighthouse, Cape Hatteras National Seashore
By Connie Cruise
Did you know the Ocracoke Island Lighthouse is the oldest operating lighthouse in North Carolina? It’s in Cape Hatteras National Seashore, the first National Seashore authorized by the U.S. government. That’s a long time of preservation! The lighthouse and the keeper’s house are in Ocracoke Village. It’s operated by the U.S. Coast Guard and continues to keep the waters safe.
Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge
By David Hunter
This beautiful marsh creek is in Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge, which is west of the Outer Banks coastline. Nearby Mill Tail Creek is Buffalo City, a ghost town once known for its logging and moonshine. Its overgrown buildings can still be seen today.
Currituck National Wildlife Refuge
By Jean Cook
Beautiful wild ‘Banker ponies’ roam the Northern Outer Banks, including Currituck National Wildlife Refuge. The park is home to many other wild animals that include Tundra Swans, Great Egrets, and the elusive King Rail.
And all the other National Parks We Enjoy
By Debra Kierce
Doesn’t this dog look so cute and happy? It’s the perfect picture of a family’s excitement going to a National Park. Whether you enjoy fishing, camping, or simple sightseeing, national parks are perfect for family bonding. Each time you participate, you’re preserving the National Parks of the Outer Banks for the future.
Are you inspired to get wild about National Parks? All you need to do is step outdoors in the Outer Banks! You can see these original artworks and more at Seaside Art Gallery. Who knows? You might even take home a piece of the outdoors to treasure forever.