The Top 8 Biggest State Parks in North Carolina

Known as the Tar Heel State, North Carolina is rich in natural recreation areas that include everything from the mountains to coastal beaches, plus plenty in between. There is no shortage of amazing places to go, many of which are quite large. Whether you want to hike and camp, explore sand dunes and beaches, or just connect with nature, there is a place in North Carolina for you to do it.

State parks are a special resource across the United States, including in North Carolina. These natural areas are rich in undisturbed areas while still being accessible to the general public. Many have entrance or parking fees, but these are typically just a few dollars and help to keep up the facilities in the park. Some are more developed, with designated camping sites, visitors’ centers, restrooms, and pavilions. Others stick to just the basics, like hiking trails and signage.

#1 South Mountains State Park — 20,949 acres

Named for the South Mountains, which are part of the larger Blue Ridge Mountain range, this state park is a paradise for those who want to explore peaks and valleys, as well as enjoy heavily forested areas. It is the largest state park in North Carolina and is located in Burke County in the western part of the state. One of the main attractions within the park is High Shoals Falls. This waterfall is an amazing 80 feet tall and is located on the High Shoals Loop Trail within the park. While the views are breathtaking, swimming is extremely dangerous and not permitted. There is still plenty to do within the park, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, camping, and picnicking. You can also enjoy some water activities on the Jacob Fork River, which runs through the park.

One amazing feature of South Mountains State Park other than its natural beauty is the history of its development. The area grew back in the early 19th century when people thought it might be rich in gold. Even though that didn’t turn out to be the case, nearby towns and cities continued to grow. Western North Carolina became known for its amazing landscape. The Civilian Conservation Corps constructed roads through what would later become South Mountains State Park that are still in existence and used today. A visit to the park isn’t complete without a stop by High Shoals Falls. For those who want more of a challenge, a trek up to Buzzard’s Roost provides amazing panoramic views of the rest of the park.

#2 Dismal Swamp State Park — 14,432 acres

Don’t be fooled by its name. Dismal Swamp State Park is anything but dismal. This state park is located in the northeast corner of the state right next to the Virginia border. The park includes over 14,000 acres but the coastal wetland swamp itself is closer to 1 million acres and covers land in both states. It is the largest swamp in the eastern United States and a vital part of the ecosystem in the region.

One of the top things to do within the swamp is paddle. The Dismal Swamp Canal goes for 22 miles and is the perfect place to view the plentiful wildlife from a unique vantage point. There are also over 20 miles of hiking and biking trails to enjoy. If you want to learn more about the park, Dismal Swamp, or this part of North Carolina, come visit on Dismal Day. Hosted each year in the fall, Dismal Day brings together community organizations, food vendors, and experts about the swamp. There are plenty of kid-friendly activities, such as crafts, games, and even live animals. There is also a free wagon ride around the park and a 5K run/walk.

#3 Stone Mountain State Park — 14,353 acres

This state park is also in the northern part of the state but on the western side among the mountains. It is split across two counties: Alleghany and Wilkes. One of the nearest major cities is Winston-Salem, although that is still around 60 miles away.

Stone Mountain has a 600-foot granite dome, which is why it is named Stone Mountain. It is a good area for rock climbing, although keep in mind that it is very rugged and requires some skill and experience. There are multiple routes to the top so that you can always try something new. If you want some guidance, there are plenty of companies that offer guided excursions up the side of the mountain.

Another must-see spot in the park is the Hutchison homestead site. It dates back to the 19th century and has been restored so that visitors can get an idea of what life was like during that time. The homestead is located on the Stone Mountain Loop Trail and is easy to access as you hike. There are numerous outbuildings as well as antique farming equipment that would have been used during the homestead’s long history.

The park also hosts monthly astronomy meet-ups for those who would rather marvel at the expanse of outer space than focus on the past. Hiking, horseback riding, fishing, and camping are all popular things to do within this park.

#4 Lumber River State Park — 13,695 acres

This large state park is in the central part of the state, around 60 miles south of Fayetteville. It has two access points, which are around an hour apart. So if you are planning to visit, make sure that you route to the access point nearest to the activities, trails, and places you want to see. Both entrances, called Princess Ann and Chalk River, have many of the same features. These include hiking trails, fishing, and campsites. However, make sure that you arrive at the correct campsite that you have reserved.

The river itself is around 115 miles long and has really spectacular places to paddle. You can bring your own equipment or rent from a local company. There are even guided tours to help you make the most of your time. The river is so abundant in wildlife and native plants that it earned the distinction of a National Wild and Scenic River in North Carolina.

#5 Hanging Rock State Park — 9,011 acres

If you travel to the northern part of central North Carolina, you’ll come across Hanging Rock State Park. There’s a lot to do in this park, which covers around 9,000 acres. The Hanging Rock Trail is around 1.3 miles and leads to breathtaking views. There are plenty of places to enjoy climbing as well as more accessible trails for those who want to focus on enjoying the scenery rather than the physical challenge. Horseback riding, mountain biking, and fishing are also available.

One of the great things about Hanging Rock compared to some other parks is the swimming lake. Located in the central part of the park, Park Lake is open for swimming in the summer. When there is an attendant on duty, you can even dive into the lake in designated places. There is a bathhouse to make changing into your bathing suit much easier. Nearby picnic spots, hiking trails, and campsites really round out the entire experience. Hanging Rock is near Winston-Salem but also very accessible from Virginia. It is in the mountains but still easy to get to and explore. If you aren’t local, you can even rent a vacation cabin to extend your visit.

#6 Chimney Rock State Park — 8,014 acres

Located near the popular mountain destination of Asheville, North Carolina, Chimney Rock State Park is perfect for those who don’t mind a little climbing to get some spectacular views. There are multiple lookout points within the park, as well as extended hiking trails. You do need to be ready for some stairs in most of the spots. However, the main Chimney Rock is also accessible via an elevator for those who can’t or don’t want to do the climb. But don’t be intimidated by the height. The ascent is very well structured with plenty of stairs and landings along the way. A concession stand and gift shop at the top are the perfect places to stop for a treat, now that you’ve made it. You will need to pay a fee.

If you want something a bit more rugged, there are free trails as well. Rumbling Bald and Eagle Rock are the two main sites, both clearly marked by trailheads and on maps you can pick up at the visitor’s center. When you get to the top, you can enjoy amazing views of Hickory Gorge as well as Lake Lure below. These are some of the best places to take in the fall foliage in North Carolina.

#7 Gorges State Park — 7,709 acres

This state park is on the very southwestern edge of North Carolina. It is easy to get back and forth from Gorges and other places in South Carolina and Georgia, both of which are nearby. It is named for the many river gorges in the area, which create breathtaking waterfalls as well as shady places to hike or just enjoy nature. There are a whopping 26 waterfalls in the park, which is known for its humid, temperate rainforest climate. You can also see plenty of amazing plant and animal species in this unique habitat.

There are hiking and biking trails, as well as places to go horseback riding and fishing. Gorges also includes some campsites and RV hookup sites. Generally, however, it is a bit more rugged than some other parks. Many visitors looking for more backcountry hiking and camping come to Gorges for this.

#8 Pettigrew State Park — 5,951 acres

If water is more your thing, you’ll love Pettigrew State Park. This park is on the eastern side of North Carolina, on the shores of Lake Phelps and the Scuppernong River. You can paddle on the water or hike alongside the banks to take in the beauty of this area. If you are visiting, you’ll be glad to know that you are in good company. Dugout canoes that date back thousands of years have been found in the lake. You can learn more about the prehistory of the region at the visitor’s center. Nearby, Somerset Place is a preserved North Carolina plantation that teaches about the role that slavery and agriculture played in the state’s history.

Wildlife in this area is truly something to behold. Two species that you’ll want to watch for are the native cypress trees and tundra swans. The cypress trees are notable for their arches, which are often large enough for a person to go under. The tundra swans only spend the winter at Pettigrew. But if you are there at the same time, you’ll enjoy watching their graceful movements on the water.

Summary of the Biggest State Parks in North Carolina