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North Carolina State Parks offer a diverse range of natural beauty, from the majestic mountains in the west to the serene coastal areas in the east. These parks provide visitors with opportunities for hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and immersing themselves in the state’s rich natural heritage. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, North Carolina’s state parks are a testament to the state’s commitment to preserving its natural wonders for generations to come.
North Carolina State Parks
1. Carvers Creek State Park
Located in Cumberland County, this park offers a serene environment with its longleaf pine ecosystem. The park is also home to the historical Rockefeller property.
2. Chimney Rock State Park
Found in Rutherford County, this park is renowned for its iconic Chimney Rock, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
3. Crowders Mountain State Park
Situated in Gaston County, this park is a favorite for hikers and climbers, providing challenging terrains and panoramic views from its peaks.
4. Dismal Swamp State Park
Located in Camden County, this park encompasses the mysterious Dismal Swamp, a dense and hauntingly beautiful natural wonder.
5. Elk Knob State Park
This park in Watauga County is known for its high elevation and offers hiking trails that lead to mesmerizing views, especially during the fall.
6. Eno River State Park
Found in Durham and Orange counties, this park is centered around the scenic Eno River, providing a tranquil setting for various recreational activities.
7. Falls Lake State Recreation Area
Located in Wake and Durham counties, this area is based around the Falls Lake and offers a plethora of water-based activities.
8. Fort Fisher State Recreation Area
This area in New Hanover County is known for its historic significance and offers a blend of natural beauty and history.
9. Fort Macon State Park
Located in Carteret County, this park is home to the restored Fort Macon, a Civil War-era fort, and offers both historical and natural attractions.
10. Goose Creek State Park
This park in Beaufort County is a blend of coastal and wetland ecosystems, providing diverse habitats for various species.
11. Gorges State Park
Located in Transylvania County, this park is known for its rugged terrain, waterfalls, and unique temperate rainforest environment.
12. Hammocks Beach State Park
This coastal park in Onslow County offers pristine beaches, salt marshes, and maritime forests, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts.
13. Hanging Rock State Park
Situated in Stokes County, this park boasts of its iconic Hanging Rock, numerous waterfalls, and over 20 miles of hiking trails.
14. Haw River State Park
Located in Guilford and Rockingham counties, this park is centered around the scenic Haw River and offers a mix of wetlands, forests, and meadows.
15. Jockey’s Ridge State Park
This park in Dare County is home to the tallest natural sand dune system in the eastern United States, offering spectacular views and a unique landscape.
16. Jones Lake State Park
Found in Bladen County, this park surrounds the mysterious Carolina Bay lakes, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming.
17. Jordan Lake State Recreation Area
Located in Chatham County, this area is based around Jordan Lake and is a popular spot for water-based activities and bird-watching, especially for bald eagles.
18. Kerr Lake State Recreation Area
This area in Vance and Warren counties offers a vast reservoir for fishing, boating, and camping, with numerous recreation facilities available.
19. Lake James State Park
Situated in Burke and McDowell counties, this park surrounds the picturesque Lake James, providing a serene setting for various outdoor activities.
20. Lake Norman State Park
Located in Iredell County, this park is centered around the vast Lake Norman and offers a plethora of water-based recreational activities.
21. Elk Knob State Park
Located in the mountains of North Carolina, Elk Knob State Park features one of the highest peaks in the state. It offers hiking, picnicking, and winter sports, and is known for its beautiful views and diverse ecological habitats.
22. Eno River State Park
Situated near Durham, Eno River State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities along the banks of the Eno River. The park is popular for hiking, fishing, canoeing, and has several historic structures.
23. Falls Lake State Recreation Area
This recreation area is centered around Falls Lake and offers a mix of land-based and water-based recreational activities. It’s a popular spot for boating, fishing, swimming, and camping.
24. Fort Fisher State Recreation Area
Located near the coast, Fort Fisher offers beachfront areas for sunbathing, swimming, and fishing. It’s also home to a historic Civil War site.
25. Fort Macon State Park
This coastal park features a well-preserved Civil War-era fort. Visitors can explore the historic fort, enjoy the beach, or participate in educational programs.
26. Goose Creek State Park
Located on the Pamlico Sound, Goose Creek State Park offers a mix of saltwater and freshwater habitats. It’s a great spot for birdwatching, fishing, and boating.
27. Gorges State Park
As North Carolina’s westernmost state park, Gorges offers rugged terrain with steep gorges and waterfalls. It’s known for its unique temperate rainforest environment and diverse plant and animal life.
28. Hammocks Beach State Park
This park consists of several coastal islands, with Bear Island being the most popular. It’s a great place for beach activities, camping, and exploring marine habitats.
29. Hanging Rock State Park
Located in the Sauratown Mountains, Hanging Rock offers stunning vistas, waterfalls, and a variety of recreational activities including hiking, swimming, and rock climbing.
30. Haw River State Park
Situated along the banks of the Haw River, this park is a great spot for fishing, hiking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area.
31. Jockey’s Ridge State Park
Home to the tallest sand dune on the East Coast, Jockey’s Ridge State Park is a popular spot for hang gliding, kite flying, and sandboarding. The park offers stunning views of the Roanoke Sound and the Atlantic Ocean.
32. Jones Lake State Park
Featuring a unique bay lake, Jones Lake State Park offers opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating. The park is also home to diverse plant and animal species, making it a great spot for nature enthusiasts.
33. Jordan Lake State Recreation Area
Centered around the vast Jordan Lake, this recreation area is a haven for water enthusiasts. It’s popular for boating, fishing, swimming, and camping. The park also serves as a sanctuary for bald eagles.
34. Kerr Lake State Recreation Area
With over 50,000 acres of freshwater reservoir, Kerr Lake is a favorite spot for fishing, boating, and water skiing. The park also offers numerous campgrounds along the shoreline.
35. Lake James State Park
Located at the base of the Linville Gorge, Lake James State Park offers a mix of water and land-based activities. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views, go boating, fishing, or explore the park’s hiking trails.
36. Lake Norman State Park
As the largest man-made lake in the state, Lake Norman State Park is a hub for water sports. The park offers boating, fishing, swimming, and has a network of hiking and biking trails.
37. Lake Waccamaw State Park
Home to one of the most unique freshwater lakes in the world, Lake Waccamaw State Park is known for its diverse ecological habitats. The park is a great spot for fishing, boating, and birdwatching.
38. Lumber River State Park
Stretching along the scenic Lumber River, this park offers a serene environment for canoeing, fishing, and picnicking. The river is also designated as a National Wild and Scenic River.
39. Mayo River State Park
Located near the Virginia border, Mayo River State Park offers a peaceful setting for picnicking, fishing, and paddling. The park is known for its scenic beauty and diverse wildlife.
40. Medoc Mountain State Park
Featuring rugged terrain and unique geological formations, Medoc Mountain State Park is a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The park offers a range of recreational activities and educational programs.
41. Merchants Millpond State Park
A mix of coastal pond and southern swamp, Merchants Millpond State Park offers a unique environment for canoeing, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The park’s ancient cypress trees and diverse habitats make it a favorite among nature enthusiasts.
Parks & Recreation – NC.GOV
Discover accessible recreational opportunities in North Carolina. Museums & The Zoo · Historic Sites · State Parks · Fishing Programs · more · Boating Access.
Visit Official Website: NC.GOV
Find a State Park Catalog – North Carolina State Parks
Visit Official Website: North Carolina State Parks
Conclusion
North Carolina State Parks are a treasure trove of natural wonders and recreational opportunities. Each park tells a unique story of the state’s diverse ecosystems and cultural heritage. Exploring North Carolina State Parks is not just an adventure, but also a journey into the heart of the state’s natural beauty and history.
Explore North Carolinas Public Parks, Gardens & Arboretums – Full List!
