Ramp 4 is the northernmost off-road vehicle ramp in Cape Hatteras National Seashore. It sits just south of the Oregon Inlet Campground entrance and directly across NC-12 from the Oregon Inlet Fishing Center, making it a launching point for anglers running to the inlet shoulder and the long stretch of beach heading south toward Pea Island.
Priority ORV ramp — opens earlier in summer mornings during night-driving restrictions, providing extended morning access for surf anglers.
Quick Facts
| Island | Bodie Island |
| Nearest Village | Oregon Inlet |
| Access Type | ORV + pedestrian |
| Priority Ramp | Yes |
| Parking | No parking at the ramp itself — use Oregon Inlet Campground or the Oregon Inlet Fishing Center lot across NC-12 |
| ORV Permit | Required — Cape Hatteras ORV Permit (annual $120, 10-day $50) |
| Open Year-Round | Yes |
Location & Aerial View
Get driving directions to Ramp 4 →
What to Expect at Ramp 4
Because Ramp 4 has no parking at the ramp head, most drivers air down at the Oregon Inlet Fishing Center lot before crossing NC-12 and entering the ramp. About a quarter-mile down the sand from the entry point, you will find a portable restroom and a trash/recycling station. From the bottom of the ramp you can drive south along Bodie Island toward the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge boundary (the refuge itself is closed to ORVs) or work the inlet shoulder for fishing.
Access Summary
Priority ramp — opens earlier in summer than non-priority ramps during night-driving restrictions. Year-round vehicle access. Subject to resource closures for piping plover, American oystercatcher, and sea turtle nesting from spring through late summer.
Hours of Operation
Cape Hatteras National Seashore ORV ramps follow a seasonal schedule. As a priority ramp, Ramp 4 opens earlier in summer mornings than non-priority ramps during the night-driving wildlife protection period.
| Season | Hours |
|---|---|
| May 1 – September 14 | 6:00 AM – midnight |
| September 15 – November 15 | 6:00 AM – midnight |
| November 16 – April 30 | Open 24 hours |
Hours can change — always confirm at go.nps.gov/beachaccess before driving.
Nearby Amenities
Oregon Inlet Fishing Center (boat ramps, charters, tackle shop), Oregon Inlet Campground (with showers and dump station), and the historic Bodie Island Lighthouse a mile north. Whalebone Junction Information Station is about 8 miles north.
Beach Driving Tips for Ramp 4
Air down to 20 psi before crossing NC-12; the sand at the Ramp 4 entry compacts unpredictably and the dune cut is steep at high tide. From late spring through summer, expect resource closures to push you north or limit your range south.
Before you drive on: see our guides to airing down your tires, reading the tide chart, and packing the right recovery gear. New to ORV permits? Start with our Cape Hatteras ORV permit guide.
Surf Fishing at Ramp 4
Ramp 4 is the closest ORV access to the south side of Oregon Inlet — a year-round hotspot for red drum, bluefish, and false albacore in the fall. The inlet shoulder is one of the most productive surf-fishing spots on the Outer Banks.
Seasonal Wildlife Closures
Cape Hatteras National Seashore protects nesting piping plover, American oystercatcher, least tern, colonial waterbirds, and sea turtles. Resource closures around active nests can shift overnight and may restrict or eliminate access through Ramp 4 from spring through late summer. Always check the live ramp status at go.nps.gov/beachaccess before driving out.
Adjacent Ramps
North: Ramp 2 | South: Ramp 23
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Ramp 4 located?
Ramp 4 is on Bodie Island near Oregon Inlet, off NC-12 within Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
Do I need a permit to drive on the beach at Ramp 4?
Yes. You need a valid Cape Hatteras National Seashore ORV permit ($120 annual or $50 for 10 days). Permits are sold online at Recreation.gov and you must show your driver’s license and vehicle registration to pick one up.
Is Ramp 4 open year-round?
Yes, Ramp 4 is open to ORVs year-round, subject to weather closures and seasonal wildlife resource closures.
Can I drive on the beach with AWD instead of 4WD?
It depends on the vehicle. See our guide to AWD vs 4WD for OBX beach driving for details. Either way you must air down to 18-20 psi and carry recovery gear.
Source: National Park Service — Beach Access Ramp 4. Live ramp status: go.nps.gov/beachaccess.