Ramp 44 is one of the most famous off-road vehicle ramps in Cape Hatteras National Seashore and the primary access point to Cape Point — the legendary fishing and bird-watching elbow at the southernmost tip of Hatteras Island. Located in Buxton just south of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, Ramp 44 is designated a Priority Ramp, meaning it opens earlier in summer mornings during night-driving restrictions.
Priority ORV ramp — opens earlier in summer mornings during night-driving restrictions, providing extended morning access for surf anglers.
Quick Facts
| Island | Hatteras Island |
| Nearest Village | Buxton (Cape Point) |
| Access Type | ORV + pedestrian |
| Priority Ramp | Yes |
| Parking | Limited turnabout parking at the ramp entry; air down before entering |
| ORV Permit | Required — Cape Hatteras ORV Permit (annual $120, 10-day $50) |
| Open Year-Round | Yes |
Location & Aerial View
Get driving directions to Ramp 44 →
What to Expect at Ramp 44
From the bottom of Ramp 44 you can drive east toward Cape Point itself, where the Atlantic currents converge and create the most productive surf-fishing waters on the East Coast. The cape is also a critical nesting area for piping plover, American oystercatcher, and sea turtles — expect significant resource closures from April through summer. Ramp 44 also connects via the Inside Road (a 4-mile sand track) to Ramps 48 and 49 in Frisco, allowing experienced drivers to traverse the southern Hatteras backcountry without returning to NC-12.
Access Summary
Priority year-round ORV ramp. Major access for Cape Point. Subject to heavy seasonal resource closures.
Hours of Operation
Cape Hatteras National Seashore ORV ramps follow a seasonal schedule. As a priority ramp, Ramp 44 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
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse complex (visitor center, museum, lighthouse climb) is about a mile north on Lighthouse Road. Village of Buxton has the full range of services. Cape Point Campground is reached via the same access road.
Beach Driving Tips for Ramp 44
Air down to 18-20 psi at the bottom of the ramp. The sand around Cape Point can be loose, especially after high winds — keep momentum and avoid stopping in soft spots. Bring recovery gear. Check live ramp status before leaving.
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 44
Cape Point is the destination. Drum (red and black), cobia, false albacore, king and Spanish mackerel, and during the fall, big bluefish. The point also produces tarpon in summer for those willing to soak baits.
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 44 from spring through late summer. Always check the live ramp status at go.nps.gov/beachaccess before driving out.
Adjacent Ramps
North: Ramp 43 | South: Ramp 48
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Ramp 44 located?
Ramp 44 is on Hatteras Island near Buxton (Cape Point), off NC-12 within Cape Hatteras National Seashore.
Do I need a permit to drive on the beach at Ramp 44?
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 44 open year-round?
Yes, Ramp 44 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 44. Live ramp status: go.nps.gov/beachaccess.