A Guide to the Best of North Carolina’s State Parks

The North Carolina State Parks offer a wide range of outdoor experiences, from the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains to the beautiful Outer Banks. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking on scenic trails, exploring historic sites, and taking part in various recreational activities. Each park has its own distinct features, such as the stunning views at Mount Mitchell or the pristine beaches at Hammocks Beach.

Click on the images below to learn more about each of the parks.

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1. Carolina Beach State Park

Carolina Beach State Park, situated near Carolina Beach, North Carolina, was established in 1969 and covers 761 acres along the Cape Fear River. The park encompasses various ecosystems, such as salt marshes, tidal creeks, and maritime forests, and is a habitat for the uncommon Venus flytrap. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picturesque viewpoints, a marina, and waterways for kayaking and paddleboarding. It’s an excellent location to immerse oneself in nature and delve into the area’s fascinating history.

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2. Carvers Creek State Park

Carvers Creek State Park is an NC State Park located in Cumberland County. The Park encompasses over 4,000 acres of land and offers a variety of recreational activities and natural attractions. The Park currently has two access points: Long Valley Farm and Sandhills. We love the variety that both of the access points have, from the Rockefeller House at Long Valley Farm to the beautiful longleaf pines at Sandhills.

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3. Chimney Rock State Park

Chimney Rock State Park is famous for its iconic 315-foot granite monolith, Chimney Rock, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Lure. Visitors can reach the top of Chimney Rock by hiking on well-maintained trails or taking an elevator.

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4. Cliffs of the Neuse State Park

Cliffs of the Neuse State Park in eastern North Carolina provides a stunning natural landscape featuring towering cliffs, lush forests, and a majestic 90-foot cliff face that overlooks the river. The park offers hiking trails, fishing, picnicking, swimming, paddling, camping, and cabins for visitors to enjoy.

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5. Crowders Mountain State Park

Crowders Mountain State Park in Gaston County, North Carolina, is home to two beautiful peaks, Crowders Mountain and The Pinnacle, which provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The park offers a range of activities, including hiking trails, rock climbing, picnicking areas, educational programs, and diverse wildlife. Additionally, visitors can explore the park’s natural and cultural resources at the visitor center.

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6. Dismal Swamp State Park

The Dismal Swamp State Park, situated in Camden County, NC, is famed for its distinctive ecosystem, thick forests, waterways, and varied wildlife. Visitors can enjoy the park by walking on trails, strolling along boardwalks, and taking boat tours to see a wide range of bird species, black bears, bobcats, and river otters. Additionally, the park is located on the Dismal Swamp Canal, providing opportunities to explore its history at the visitors center and to paddle along the canal.

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7. Elk Knob State Park

Elk Knob State Park in the northwest corner of North Carolina provides peaceful mountain getaways with sweeping views from the 5,520-foot Elk Knob summit. Guests can explore extensive hiking trails through dense forests, spot wildlife, and relax at serene picnic areas in this pristine natural sanctuary.

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8. Eno River State Park

Eno River State Park, located in Durham, North Carolina, is a beautiful natural area spanning over 4,000 acres along the Eno River. It provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, kayaking, and swimming. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife and plant species, attracting birdwatchers and botanists. Additionally, it offers educational programs and events that showcase its cultural and environmental importance.

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9. Falls Lake State Recreation Area

Falls Lake State Recreation Area in Wake Forest, North Carolina, provides boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities around the picturesque Falls Lake. The park boasts lush forests, gentle hills, and scenic trails for hikers and bikers. Camping options range from basic tent sites to RV-friendly spots, all with peaceful lake views. Abundant wildlife can be spotted in the area, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts of all ages.

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10. Fort Fisher State Recreation Area

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area, located in Kure Beach, North Carolina, offers beautiful beaches, a historical WWII bunker, scenic trails, and picturesque landscapes, creating a memorable experience for visitors with diverse interests.

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11. Fort Macon State Park

Fort Macon State Park, situated on the Crystal Coast of North Carolina, offers a harmonious combination of historical charm and natural splendor. The park is home to the well-maintained Fort Macon, a coastal fort from the 19th century that features artillery displays and holds significant historical value. Additionally, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, vast beaches, and a variety of coastal habitats that are perfect for birdwatching and leisurely nature walks.

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12. Goose Creek State Park

Goose Creek State Park is situated in Beaufort County, North Carolina. The park covers around 1,672 acres and is located along the banks of Goose Creek and the Pamlico River. The park provides a range of activities and coastal habitats, such as hiking along the boardwalk through a cypress swamp, beach access along the Pamlico River, camping, paddling, and exploring at the visitor center.

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13. Gorges State Park

Gorges State Park is located in southwestern North Carolina, covering 7,709 acres. It’s known for its rugged beauty, waterfalls, and diverse ecosystems. The park has hiking trails for all levels, including viewpoints of waterfalls. Check the park map before choosing a trail.

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14. Grandfather Mountain State Park

Grandfather Mountain State Park in North Carolina is a beautiful natural area known for its rugged terrain and diverse wildlife. The park covers over 2,600 acres and offers hiking trails, dense forests, flowing streams, and stunning viewpoints. It’s a haven for nature lovers and photographers, providing magnificent scenery and an abundance of wildlife.

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15. Hammocks Beach State Park

Hammocks Beach State Park, nestled near Swansboro, North Carolina, provides a peaceful coastal getaway with a variety of ecosystems and unspoiled beaches on its barrier island. Guests have the opportunity to hike trails, access Bear Island via ferry, private boat, or kayak, and partake in activities such as swimming, sunbathing, camping, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Whether in pursuit of tranquility or adventure, the park presents a distinctive coastal escape brimming with natural beauty.

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16. Hanging Rock State Park

Hanging Rock State Park is a picturesque 9,000-acre park in North Carolina, showcasing rugged cliffs, waterfalls, forests, and stunning viewpoints. Its focal point is Hanging Rock, which provides breathtaking panoramic views. Visitors can take advantage of more than 20 miles of hiking trails and partake in activities such as swimming, fishing, and picnicking at the beautiful lake. With a history dating back to the 18th century, the park stands as a testament to conservation and stewardship.

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17. Haw River State Park

Haw River State Park in North Carolina spans over 1,400 acres and offers diverse ecosystems, hiking trails, a lake, and boardwalks. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife, serving as a conservation area and promoting environmental education.

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18. Jockey’s Ridge State Park

Jockey’s Ridge State Park, situated on the Outer Banks of North Carolina, is home to the tallest natural sand dune system in the eastern United States. Covering 426 acres, the park provides a distinctive landscape with moving sands and stunning vistas. The highlight is the remarkable Jockey’s Ridge, which reaches heights of up to 100 feet. Visitors can partake in activities such as sandboarding, kite flying, hiking, and exploring varied ecosystems ranging from sandy dunes to maritime thickets.

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19. Jones Lake State Park

Jones Lake State Park in Elizabethtown, North Carolina, is a serene natural retreat known for its picturesque Carolina bay lakes. The 2,208-acre park offers outdoor activities like swimming, kayaking, fishing, and hiking, as well as opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography. It’s an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking to escape into nature.

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20. Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

Jordan Lake State Recreation Area is a sprawling outdoor destination near Apex, North Carolina. It encompasses over 4,500 acres of woodlands, waterways, and recreational facilities. The main attraction is the vast Jordan Lake, offering boating, fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The park is renowned for its diverse bird population and features campgrounds, hiking, and biking trails. It’s a refreshing escape into nature for visitors of all ages.

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21. Kerr Lake State Recreation Area

Kerr Lake is a 50,000-acre reservoir offering a variety of water-based activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, and water skiing. It was formed by the construction of the John H. Kerr Dam on the Roanoke River. The area also includes campgrounds, hiking trails, boat ramps, and picnic areas.

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22. Lake James State Park

Lake James, located in western North Carolina, was created in 1916 with the construction of the Lake James Dam on the Catawba River. Named after James Buchanan Duke, it functions primarily as a reservoir for hydroelectric power generation managed by Duke Energy. Over time, the lake has become a popular recreational spot, offering activities such as boating, fishing, camping, and hiking. It has also had a positive impact on the local economy by contributing to tourism and outdoor recreation. Environmental organizations actively work to ensure the ecological balance and sustainable development of the area, preserving Lake James as a valuable asset for both local communities and visitors.

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23. Lake Norman State Park

The tranquil Lake Norman State Park, located in Iredell County, North Carolina, encompasses 1,900 acres along the scenic shores of Lake Norman. The park provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, boating, swimming, and enjoying picturesque picnic areas with beautiful waterfront views. It is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

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24. Lake Waccamaw State Park

The tranquil Lake Waccamaw State Park in southeastern North Carolina is famous for its peaceful surroundings and diverse ecosystems. The park is home to Lake Waccamaw, one of the state’s largest natural freshwater lakes. Visitors can engage in activities like hiking, fishing, boating, kayaking, and educational programs that highlight the lake’s natural history.

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25. Lumber River State Park

Lumber River State Park, in North Carolina, offers a serene escape into nature. This unique park includes the stunning Lumber River, perfect for canoeing and kayaking. There are also picturesque trails for hiking, birdwatching, and photography.

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26. Mayo River State Park

Mayo River State Park, located in Rockingham County, North Carolina, offers over 2,500 acres of lush forests, scenic river views, and recreational opportunities. With 4 miles of hiking trails, fishing, kayaking, and camping, it’s the perfect outdoor escape.

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27. Medoc Mountain State Park

Medoc Mountain State Park is located in Hollister, NC, named after Medoc Mountain, which was once part of a vast ancient mountain range. The park offers rolling hills, hardwood forests, and diverse plant and animal life, perfect for activities like hiking, paddling, fishing, picnicking, and camping.

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28. Merchants Millpond State Park

Merchants Millpond State Park, in Gates County, North Carolina, features a 760-acre millpond surrounded by bald cypress and water tupelo trees. The park offers canoe trails, hiking trails, fishing, camping, and diverse habitats for plant and animal life, making it a destination for outdoor recreation and nature lovers.

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29. Morrow Mountain State Park

Morrow Mountain State Park, located in Stanly County, North Carolina, covers over 4,700 acres and offers diverse recreational opportunities and historical significance. The park features numerous hiking trails, panoramic views, Lake Tillery for fishing and boating, the Kron House museum, and educational programs focusing on ecology, wildlife, and local history. It’s a popular destination for nature lovers and history buffs.

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30. Mount Jefferson State Natural Area

The name “Mount Jefferson” honors Thomas Jefferson and his father, who owned and surveyed the land nearby. In 1974, it was designated as a National Natural Landmark, and in 1956, it became a State Park. The area boasts over 700 plant species and stunning views of neighboring mountain peaks in North Carolina, Virginia, and Tennessee. It provides easily accessible viewpoints by car and hiking trails for adventurers, including trails leading to Luther Rock, which offers even more breathtaking views. It’s highly recommended as a fantastic day trip destination.

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31. Mount Mitchell State Park

Mount Mitchell State Park in North Carolina, established in 1915, is the oldest state park in the state. It can only be accessed from the Blue Ridge Parkway, which boasts an observation deck at the summit of the mountain. This mountain is the highest peak east of the Mississippi River and offers breathtaking views.

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32. New River State Park

The New River is among the oldest rivers in the United States and the world. Its name originates from not appearing on a map before 1651. The New River State Park was established in the 1960s to protect the river from being dammed by a power company. It was founded in 1975 and covers almost 27 miles in both Ashe and Alleghany Counties, providing stunning scenery in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

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33. Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area

The highest point in Orange County is the Occoneechee Mountain summit in the Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area, making for some fantastic views of the land below and the Eno River. The Natural Area features around 3 miles of trails and has areas that can be used for fishing and picnicking. We hiked the Occoneechee Mountain Loop Trail, which featured hiking near the Eno River, the Mountain summit, and access to the Occoneechee Quarry, which was fun to explore. We really enjoyed our hike, and we warn you that there are a number of stairs that must be navigated if you fully commit to the Occoneechee Mountain Loop Trail.

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34. Pettigrew State Park

Pettigrew State Park, in eastern North Carolina near Lake Phelps, covers nearly 6,000 acres with diverse ecosystems. Lake Phelps offers fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching, while the park’s hiking trails showcase lush forests and wildlife. Nearby is Somerset Place, a restored antebellum plantation. The park is adjacent to Pocosin Lakes National Wildlife Refuge for more outdoor opportunities.

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35. Pilot Mountain State Park

Pilot Mountain State Park opened in 1968 and features the Big Pinnacle. The Saura Native American tribe called the mountain Jomeokee, meaning Great Pilot. The park offers multiple access points and miles of trails, with the most popular being the Mountain Section, featuring a visitor center and road to the top for hiking and scenic views.

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36. Raven Rock State Park

Raven Rock State Park is named after the Raven Rock, a towering and nearly vertical rock formation that rises 150 feet above the Cape Fear River. It is a well-known landmark and a popular spot for hikers. The park features multiple hiking trails and diverse natural habitats and offers activities like fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and camping.

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37. Rendezvous Mountain

Rendezvous Mountain in Wilkes County, NC, has a rich history dating back to the Revolutionary War. Legend has it that it was the assembly point for the Overmountain Men during the Battle of Kings Mountain. Part of the property was turned over to the NC Division of Parks and Recreation in 2022. The area features a trail to a waterfall and educational exhibits, with a parking area offering stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

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38. Singletary Lake State Park

Singletary Lake State Park in Eastern North Carolina spans over 1,200 acres and features a unique Carolina bay with tranquil waters ideal for canoeing and kayaking. The park offers hiking, fishing, and opportunities to explore diverse wildlife and rare plant species. It also hosts educational programs for school groups and nature enthusiasts.

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39. South Mountains State Park

South Mountains State Park is located in Burke County, North Carolina, about 18 miles south of Morganton. The park covers over 20,000 acres and features rugged terrain, deep gorges, waterfalls, and diverse plant and animal life. There are various hiking trails, including the popular High Shoals Falls Loop Trail, leading to an 80-foot waterfall. The Jacob Fork River offers fishing, wading, and swimming. The park also has camping areas and trails for horseback riding and mountain biking.

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40. Stone Mountain State Park

The Stone Mountain State Park is one of the largest parks in the NC State Park System, with over 20 miles of hiking trails, 10 miles of horseback riding trails, fishing, and areas for rock climbing. The park also features the historic Hutchinson Homestead, multiple waterfalls, and a challenging trek to the top of Stone Mountain, which offers incredible views. If you prefer a more relaxed hike, you can still enjoy great views of the 600-foot granite dome from the base of the mountain.

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41. Weymouth Woods Sandhills Nature Preserve

Weymouth Woods-Sandhills Nature Preserve in Moore County is known for its rare longleaf pine ecosystem. The park offers various hiking trails and educational programs about local ecology. Birdwatchers visit to see species like the red-cockaded woodpecker and Bachman’s sparrow. The visitor center has exhibits and knowledgeable staff, and there are picnic areas for relaxation.

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42. William B. Umstead State Park

William B. Umstead State Park is a serene escape in North Carolina’s Triangle region, offering over 5,500 acres of woodlands, creeks, and hills. Located near Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, the park features hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, as well as fishing and boating opportunities. It’s a tranquil haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, providing a natural retreat near urban centers.

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