Nags Head Woods Preserve

Nags Head Woods Preserve A gem of maritime forest, ponds, marshes and wetlands nested on the Outer Banks. Nags Head Woods Preserve is owned and operated by The Nature Conservancy. Clair.
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Open to the public and free of charge, Nags Head Woods Preserve welcomes ~60,000 visitors every year, providing a respite from the busy coastal scene, both for wildlife and for the many people who enjoy its beauty and accessibility. Nags Head Woods protects a remarkable range of unique habitats on North Carolina’s Outer Banks, including forested dunes, interdune ponds, marshes, wetlands, and the l

argest intact maritime forest on the East Coast. The preserve is home to 550 species of plants, 7 species of fish, 150 species of birds (50 of which nest at the preserve), 29 species of mammals, 28 species of reptiles, and 15 species of amphibians. Nags Head Woods was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1974, and protecting its unique habitats was one of the Conservancy’s first priorities in North Carolina. Between 1978 and 1986, the Conservancy acquired about 420 acres in the northern section of the forest; some of the land was generously donated by John and Rhoda Calfee and Diane St. Partnerships with local municipalities were formed early in the process, with the leasing of 350 acres from the Town of Nags Head. In 1992, the Conservancy and the Town of Nags Head jointly acquired an additional 389 acres in the forest from Resolution Trust Corporation. In 1997, the Town of Nags Head agreed to dedicate nearly 300 acres of Nags Head Woods as a permanent conservation area under the State Nature Preserves Act. In addition, the Town of Kill Devil Hills signed a Memorandum of Understanding with The Nature Conservancy, placing another 100 acres in the forest under cooperative management. Working with the towns and other partners, The Nature Conservancy has succeeded in protecting this fragile ecosystem, overseeing both terrestrial and marine research and monitoring programs and providing trails for visitors to enjoy. In 2011, thanks to Ed Mays, president of North Carolina Handicapped Sportsmen, a multi-use trail was built through Nags Head Woods. What started out as a project for handicapped sportsmen became much more. Now the trail is used by older folks, families with strollers and small children as well as people with mobility issues.

Nags Head Woods – 2026 June/July Group Hike Invitation!The Nature Conservancy, Nags Head Woods, welcomes hikers to parti...
06/03/2026

Nags Head Woods – 2026 June/July Group Hike Invitation!

The Nature Conservancy, Nags Head Woods, welcomes hikers to participate in June through July, multi-level weekly guided hikes beginning every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 9:00 am. These 1–2-hour treks led by Nags Head Woods staff will feature information about the plants, animals, and cultural history of one of the largest east coast maritime forests in existence – Nags Head Woods.

We prioritize safety and inclusivity, ensuring a supportive environment as we tour the woods together. Join us for a morning filled with fresh air, laughter, and unforgettable memories. All hikers are encouraged to bring water bottles, insect repellent, sunscreen, hiking footwear, and appropriate clothing for warm and humid summer weather. Proper hydration before, during and after the hike is essential; a water filling station and bathrooms are available at the preserve office. Hikes may be cancelled for inclement weather. The hike will only move as quickly as the slowest hiker in the group. A signed liability waiver is required for all participants.

For those interested in joining this exciting outing, please scan the QR code below to reserve your spot. Hikers should arrive by 8:45 am on hike day, and parking is limited. So, lace up your boots and get ready to learn all about the woods and be part of the fun!

🌿🪑Thank you Dunes of Dare Garden Club!🪑🌿We are grateful for the new TREX bench now welcoming visitors to Nags Head Woods...
06/02/2026

🌿🪑Thank you Dunes of Dare Garden Club!🪑🌿

We are grateful for the new TREX bench now welcoming visitors to Nags Head Woods Preserve 💚

This thoughtful gift is made possible by the club’s collection of recyclable materials - a great example of reduce, reuse, repurpose and recycle ♻️

Take a seat, enjoy the woods, and thank the Dunes of Dare Garden Club for this lovely lasting contribution!

05/14/2026

What to do if You Find Orphaned Wildlife

If you think you've found an orphaned or injured wild animal, what should you do?

First we are so glad that you want to help.

Second there are a few things you should know to keep the animal safe and avoid breaking the law.

Most states require permits or licenses, training and approved facilities to rehabilitate wildlife and some species, including most birds, require federal permits as well. For the safety of the animal, yourself and your family, always call a professional.

In North Carolina please call our state Wildlife Resource Commission Wildlife Helpline at 866-318-2401 M-F 8am - 5pm or email details: [email protected]

Otter camera footage to catch your interest

This Saturday morning is the 40th annual Nags Head Woods 5k & 1-mile walk. Looks like it will be a comfortable spring da...
05/07/2026

This Saturday morning is the 40th annual Nags Head Woods 5k & 1-mile walk. Looks like it will be a comfortable spring day to enjoy a race in the woods. Nags Head Woods 5k

For registration and info:

40th Annual Nags Head Woods 5K Saturday, May 9 LEARN MORE/SIGNUP @ RACE WEBSITE Join us Mother’s Day Weekend on Saturday morning for a fun 5K at Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve. As we have merged with North Banks Rotary Club this past year, we now get to help organize this special charity even...

🌲 National Volunteer Appreciation Week Spotlight 🌲This week, we’re thrilled to celebrate our volunteers whose service an...
04/24/2026

🌲 National Volunteer Appreciation Week Spotlight 🌲

This week, we’re thrilled to celebrate our volunteers whose service and commitment to Nags Head Woods Preserve has made a lasting impact over the years.

The Appalachian State University Alternative Spring Break program which has returned year after year to help with everything from invasive plant removal to native plantings—all work that keeps the Woods healthy and thriving.

Next we want to thank Chip who has invested time (over 750 hours!), energy, and expertise. From maintaining and improving trails to carpentry projects/repairs, we are deeply grateful for Chip’s long-term dedication, leadership, and passion for conservation.

Volunteers are the best, and we can’t thank them enough for their support the Woods. 💚

Good afternoon! These unique birds have been seen recently around freshwater marshes, coastal estuaries, mudflats, and s...
03/02/2026

Good afternoon! These unique birds have been seen recently around freshwater marshes, coastal estuaries, mudflats, and swamps. They usually forage in shallow areas with less than 8 inches of water, but they also use lawns and parks. This morning, several were observed by visitors on the ADA Trail boardwalk in Nags Head Woods. Any guesses to their identity?

We are HIRING a 10-week summer position at Nags Head Woods Preserve.The Visitor Outreach and Communication Intern will w...
02/20/2026

We are HIRING a 10-week summer position at Nags Head Woods Preserve.

The Visitor Outreach and Communication Intern will work on educational graphic content and visitor services in Nags Head Woods Preserve (Preserve), owned by The Nature Conservancy in northeastern North Carolina. Key responsibilities include improving the overall visitor experience, updating Pavilion exhibits, and developing outreach materials and providing educational guided hikes.

Visit our careers site to see the full job listing and complete your application by February 27, 2026.

Apply for Nags Head Woods (NHW) Preserve Visitor Outreach & Communication Intern job with The Nature Conservancy in Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina. Conservation at The Nature Conservancy

02/20/2026
Winter birds in Nags Head Woods were out in full force today; the variety and sheer number detected on the ADA Trail was...
02/06/2026

Winter birds in Nags Head Woods were out in full force today; the variety and sheer number detected on the ADA Trail was outstanding! Bird afficionados, citizen scientists and casual hikers alike can regularly see a number of species this time of year, to include:

House Finch - Cedar Waxwing – Red Winged Blackbird – Downy Woodpecker – Hermit Thrush – Black Capped Chickadee – Northern Cardinal – Red Bellied Woodpecker – Yellow Rumped Warbler – Pileated Woodpecker.

The best time to observe birds is during the early morning hours, a time known as the "dawn chorus”, when birds are most frequently heard and seen by observers. This active period begins just before sunrise and lasts for a few hours after, making it easier to spot them. So please visit one of the eight pedestrian trails in Nags Head Woods, and capture some of the quiet beauty of the winter!

What bird species have you encountered in Nags Head Woods in 2026?

01/30/2026

A State of Emergency has been issued for all areas of Dare County due to an impactful winter storm. A Winter Storm Warning, Coastal Flood Warning and High Wind Warning remain in effect. Now is the time to finalize preparations—secure food, medications and supplies, and protect pets and property.

Key storm impacts:
70–90% chance of 4+ inches of snow (higher on northern beaches)
Wind gusts 50–67 mph
Severe coastal flooding on ocean and soundside
Dangerous cold with temps in the teens and single digits

Stay safe and stay informed.

Visit DareNC.gov/WinterStorm for the latest updates and text "DareEmergencyAlerts" to 77295 to sign up for emergency text alerts.

Address

701 W Ocean Acres Drive
Kill Devil Hills, NC
27948

Telephone

+12524412525

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