Dare County Parks

We have more than just the beaches here on the Outer Banks! Each town has a park or two with nature trails, playground areas, and dog park areas as well. On those days when you get a little too much of the beach, you can travel to any of these public park areas and explore what else the Outer Banks has to offer!

town of duck park & Boardwalk

The Town Park features 11 acres of natural beauty including trails through the maritime forest and willow swamp, open green space, soundside views, and access to the Duck Boardwalk. The Duck Boardwalk extends nearly a mile along the Currituck Sound and can be accessed from the Town Park and other locations throughout the Town’s commercial district. There are also areas for picnics and a playground for the kids.

David paul Pruitt jr. park

This park is located  just .2 miles down The Woods Road in Kitty Hawk on the south side of Croatan Highway. This park is a local favorite and perfect for little tikes.  It is also the starting point to The Woods Road pedestrian walkway that goes for a few miles so you can enjoy the wooded scenery on your walks.  

Sandy Run Park

Sandy Run Park leads its visitors through the heart of Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Preserve, one of the largest maritime forests remaining in North Carolina. The park encompasses 1600 acres of marshland, waterways and maritime forest. The park features a wooden boardwalk, two gazebos, a fishing and many more amenities for the enjoyment of the area's natural beauty and wildlife. Just after entering the park, and next to the ample parking area you’ll find a covered picnic pavilion, a putting green, cookout grills, and a basketball half-court.

Hayman Park

Hayman Park is a charming, circular neighborhood park located at the north end of Kill Devil Hills and on the sound side of Highway 158. The park has a large open area often used for adult soccer practice and children’s soccer games, by golfers practicing chip shots and owners exercising pets. It’s also great for Frisbee throwing, kite flying and other activities or just lying on a blanket in the sun. In the shaded area are benches, along with picnic tables and a grill for cookouts, and nearby are swings sturdy enough for all ages and a jungle gym and slides for the kids. There are also plenty of live oak trees to climb or relax beneath with a good book.

Dowdy Park

Located at the corner of South Croatan Highway and Bonnett Street, it offers 5 acres of recreation for every age and every ability. Features include an amphitheater, a fitness trail, an inclusive playground,  bathrooms, a community garden, and a multi-use court.