Nature Conservancy

This address is the Nature Conservancy's office and access point for Nags Head Woods Preserve, one of the largest and best-preserved maritime forests remaining on the U.S. East Coast. Sitting on the soundside of Kill Devil Hills, between the built-up beach corridor and Roanoke Sound, the preserve protects several hundred acres of old dune ridges, freshwater ponds, and hardwood forest that look almost nothing like the beach town around them — live oak, loblolly pine, and American holly growing across sand ridges built up over thousands of years of barrier-island geology.

What's Protected Here

• A ridge-and-swale forest system built on ancient, stabilized dune lines
• Freshwater ponds and wetlands that draw a wide range of resident and migratory birds
• Miles of maintained trails through forest most visitors never expect to find this close to the ocean

Planning a Visit

The preserve is open daily, year-round, with staff and trail access through the office at 701 Ocean Acres Drive. Because the forest sits inland and shaded, it's a solid option when wind or midday heat make the open beach less appealing, and it stays noticeably quieter than the main beach corridor even at the height of summer. Call ahead at (252) 441-2525 or check nature.org/nhw for current trail conditions before visiting, particularly after a storm.