Explore North Carolina’s 39 Stunning State Parks
Explore North Carolina state parks offer diverse landscapes, from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Outer Banks. These parks provide access to natural wonders, perfect for outdoor recreation, nature study, and environmental education. Discover why these parks should be on your must-visit list. North Carolina is a state I was blessed to spend a good amount of time in. It’s a beautiful state with fun folks and great Food!
Table of Contents
Exploring North Carolina’s 39 State Parks
North Carolina’s state park system offers something for everyone, including challenging hikes, tranquil campsites, and family-friendly activities. With parks spread across the state, from Western North Carolina to the coast, a nature escape is always nearby. Find your perfect North Carolina getaway.
A Diverse Range of Experiences
Each North Carolina State Park boasts unique features. Visit the highest peak east of the Mississippi at Mount Mitchell. Explore Grandfather Mountain’s unique ecology and enjoy the Mile High Swinging Bridge.
Discover the history of the longleaf pine ecosystem at Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Dismal Swamp. Find waterfalls, lakes, rivers, and hiking trails throughout these beautiful parks.
Hiking Graphic Hoodies
Outdoor apparel for hiking, fly fishing, or hanging out at camp or in town. UPF-50 Graphic Hoodies.
Planning Your Adventure
| Region | Park | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Mountains | Mount Mitchell State Park | Highest peak in the eastern US. |
| Mountains | Grandfather Mountain State Park | Unique ecology, Mile High Swinging Bridge. |
| Piedmont | Crowders Mountain State Park | Challenging hikes, scenic views. |
| Coast | Carolina Beach State Park | Venus flytraps, diverse flora and fauna. |
| Coast | Fort Macon State Park | Historic fort, coastal views, camping. |
| Mountains | Stone Mountain State Park | Massive granite dome, waterfalls. |
| Piedmont | Eno River State Park | River scenery, history. |
| Coast | Jones Lake State Park | Fishing pier, boating. |
A glimpse of North Carolina’s state parks. Discover all of North Carolina’s State Parks, the above shows just a few and the three different regions they reside in.
North Carolina State Parks, Chimney Rock
North Carolina State Parks offer great fly fish North Carolina, from Surf & Marsh to mountain trout fly fishing. North Carolina Bass Fly Fishing is worth extra time on your adventure.
Striped Bass Pattern for the Carolina Coast
Mountains:
Chimney Rock State Park
Chimney Rock State Park, nestled in Rutherford County, North Carolina, is a must-see for any outdoor enthusiast. The park’s star attraction is, of course, Chimney Rock. But there’s so much more to explore. Hiking trails wind through the park, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
This park is a great spot for rock climbing. It offers challenges for climbers of all skill levels. Experienced climbers can tackle the more technical routes on Chimney Rock itself. Beginners can find plenty of easier climbs on the park’s other rock formations.
If you love to hike, Chimney Rock State Park has got you covered. The Exclamation Point Trail is a popular choice. It’s a strenuous but rewarding climb to a breathtaking overlook. For a less intense hike, try the Hickory Nut Falls Trail. This trail leads to a beautiful waterfall. This is one of the tallest waterfalls east of the Mississippi.
Camping at Chimney Rock State Park lets you fully immerse yourself in nature. The park has several campgrounds. Some offer amenities like restrooms and showers. Others provide a more primitive camping experience. This means you can choose the setting that best suits your needs.
Beyond hiking and camping, Chimney Rock State Park offers several other activities. You can go fishing in the park’s streams and lakes. Or you can simply relax and enjoy the scenery. There are also educational programs. These programs teach visitors about the park’s natural and cultural history. This park is a great place for a day trip or a weekend getaway. It’s the perfect place to reconnect with nature and enjoy the beauty of North Carolina’s mountains.
Grandfather Mountain State Park
Grandfather Mountain State Park is a must-see. It spans Avery, Caldwell, and Watauga counties. This park is famous for its tough hikes and amazing views. But the mountain isn’t just for serious hikers. There are easier trails too. So, everyone can enjoy the beauty of the park.
One of the park’s coolest features is the Mile High Swinging Bridge. It’s the highest suspension footbridge in America. It connects two of Grandfather Mountain’s peaks. Walking across it is a bit scary, but totally worth it. The views are incredible. You can see for miles on a clear day. You’ll see the rolling hills of North Carolina stretch out before you. It’s truly breathtaking.
This state park has over 12 miles of hiking trails. These trails range in difficulty from easy to strenuous. So, you can pick one that matches your fitness level. Some popular trails include the Grandfather Trail and the Profile Trail. These lead to Calloway Peak, the park’s highest point.
Backpacking is another popular activity in Grandfather Mountain State Park. There are backcountry campsites available for overnight trips. You’ll need a permit. This is an amazing way to see the park. You get to really connect with nature. Imagine waking up surrounded by the beauty of the mountains. It’s an unforgettable experience.
Besides hiking and backpacking, there are other things to do. You can go rock climbing, fishing, and camping. There are developed campgrounds. They have amenities like restrooms and showers. Or you can really get away from it all. Try camping in the backcountry under the stars. Just remember to plan and pack accordingly.
Grandfather Mountain State Park has something for everyone. Whether you’re a hardcore hiker, or just looking for a relaxing day in nature, this park has it all. The scenery is stunning, the trails are challenging, and the memories you’ll make are priceless.
North Carolina State Parks, Grandfather Mountain
Piedmont:
Raven Rock State Park
If you are looking for adventure, check out Raven Rock State Park. This park sits in Harnett County. It offers over 150 campsites. But the real draw is its hiking. More than 20 miles of trails weave through the park.
The main attraction is, you guessed it, Raven Rock. This rock isn’t small. It towers 150 feet above the Cape Fear River. You can climb to the top for some amazing views. The views are of the river and surrounding forests. It’s a steep climb, but it’s worth it. This makes it one of the best North Carolina state parks.
But Raven Rock isn’t the only cool thing to see. The park also has several waterfalls. There are some really great overlooks, too. You’ll find the most popular waterfalls on the Raven Rock Loop Trail. This trail is about 2.6 miles. It is a moderate hike. This is because of some rocky sections and elevation changes.
Another popular trail is the Campbell Creek Loop Trail. This trail is 4.5 miles. It’s also moderate. It takes you past two waterfalls. One of them is Lanier Falls. It cascades over rocks. This creates a beautiful, misty scene. This trail is longer than the Raven Rock Loop Trail. But it is definitely a good option if you want a longer hike.
If you want something easier, try the River Overlook Trail. This trail is only a half-mile. It takes you to a scenic overlook. From here, you can see the Cape Fear River. It’s a great place for a picnic. It is also a good spot to watch for wildlife. Because this is one of the North Carolina state parks, you might even see a bald eagle!
This North Carolina State Park is open year-round. It offers different activities throughout the seasons. You can hike in the spring. The wildflowers are blooming. You can swim and fish in the summer. Or you can see the colorful leaves in the fall. Winter offers crisp air. It also offers fewer crowds. No matter what time of year you go, there’s something to enjoy at Raven Rock State Park. Just remember to bring water. This is especially true if you are hiking in the warmer months.
Coast:
Carolina Beach State Park
Carolina Beach State Park sits near the mouth of the Cape Fear River. This coastal park offers a different experience than the beaches just a few miles away. You can explore a variety of distinct habitats here. This includes sand dunes, tidal marshes, and maritime forests. The park protects a rare type of Venus flytrap. This carnivorous plant thrives in the park’s nutrient-poor soil.
Hiking trails wind through the park. You can choose a short stroll or a longer trek. The Flytrap Trail is a must-do. It takes you through the unique pocosin wetlands. This is where you might spot the famous Venus flytrap. The Sugarloaf Trail offers beautiful views of the Cape Fear River. This trail also leads to an overlook. From here, you can see the remains of a Civil War-era blockade runner.
Camping at Carolina Beach State Park lets you fully enjoy nature. The campground has sites for tents and RVs. Some sites even offer hookups. But there are also primitive campsites. These are perfect for backpackers and those seeking a more rustic experience. You’ll find restrooms and showers available. And a playground keeps the kids entertained. This makes it a great family camping spot.
Fishing is popular at the park. You can cast your line from the shore. Or you can fish from a boat in the Cape Fear River. The river is home to a variety of fish. This includes flounder, red drum, and speckled trout. Crabbing is another fun activity. You can try your luck at catching blue crabs. Be sure to check local regulations. This helps you understand catch limits and licensing requirements.
Beyond hiking, camping, and fishing, Carolina Beach State Park offers more activities. You can rent kayaks or canoes. This lets you explore the waterways. There’s also a marina. This provides access for boaters. And educational programs happen throughout the year. These programs teach visitors about the park’s unique environment. You can learn about its diverse plant and animal life.
Cliffs of the Neuse State Park
This North Carolina State Park sits right on the banks of the Neuse River. It’s in Wayne County, a little bit east of Raleigh. The big draw? Towering, 90-foot cliffs that give you awesome views of the river below. But this park has a lot more to give than just pretty views. This place is great for campers and hikers.
There are different trails for all types of hikers. The easy trails wind along the river. The more challenging trails take you right up to the top of those cliffs. No matter which trail you pick, you’ll get to see lots of cool plants and animals. Keep your eyes peeled for deer, birds, and maybe even a river otter.
If you like camping, Cliffs of the Neuse State Park is a good choice. They’ve got campsites for tents and RVs. They also have group campsites if you’re coming with friends. After you set up camp, take a dip in the park’s swimming pool. Or rent a canoe or kayak and explore the Neuse River. Fishing is also popular here, so bring your rod and reel.
This state park is also a cool place to learn about history. Way back when, these cliffs were used by Native Americans. Later, they became a hideout for pirates! You can learn more about the park’s past at the visitor center.
Tips for Visiting
Check the park closures page for real-time updates, especially after Hurricane Helene. Consider a North Carolina State Parks annual pass for frequent visits.
Keep pets on a leash. Most North Carolina state parks are free, but check park fees beforehand.
FAQs about North Carolina’s 39 State Parks
How many state parks does North Carolina have?
North Carolina has 39 state parks and recreation areas. They provide natural experiences, from the highest peaks to pristine shorelines.
Are all NC state parks free?
Most North Carolina state parks have free admission. Some have fees for parking, camping, or other activities. Chimney Rock charges an entry fee. Some state recreation areas on Falls Lake, Jordan Lake, and Kerr Lake have parking fees.
What is the most visited state park in NC?
Visitation numbers vary. Grandfather Mountain, Jordan Lake, and Falls Lake are popular. These parks offer many activities and are near populated areas.
Visitor counts can be estimates based on traffic tracking software. Many parks don’t have all-day entrance monitoring.
What is the smallest NC state park?
Bob’s Creek State Natural Area is the smallest, at just under 6 acres.
Conclusion of North Carolina State Parks
North Carolina’s 39 state parks, from the mountains to the coast, offer natural beauty. These parks provide a refreshing escape for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those seeking tranquility.
Plan your North Carolina state park adventure today. Explore park information and discover the cultural resources and camping options available to you. Enjoy the natural beauty that North Carolina offers.
