Raven Rock State Park

Raven Rock State Park is a protected natural area in Harnett County along the Cape Fear River, featuring a striking rock formation about 150 feet tall and several water rapids. The park spans roughly 1,945 acres and offers hiking paths, biking trails, and horse riding routes for visitors of different abilities.

Siouan and Tuscarora peoples hunted these lands for generations before European settlers arrived in the mid-18th century to build mills and quarries. These early activities shaped the place into the landscape that visitors see today.

The crossing point at Northington linked Raleigh and Fayetteville, making this location a key landmark for river navigation in the past. People relied on this passage to connect the region and cross the waterway.

The park is open to visitors throughout the year with no entrance fee required. Comfortable footwear is recommended because the paths vary in difficulty and the ground can be muddy and uneven, especially near the river.

The park sits at the fall line where ancient rock formations developed over hundreds of millions of years through heat and pressure. This geological location makes the area remarkable for visitors interested in how landscapes and rocks form.

Location: Harnett County

Inception: 1969

Operator: North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation

Address: Raven Rock Road

Phone: +9108934888

Website: http://ncparks.gov/raven-rock-state-park

GPS coordinates: 35.47250,-78.90720

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:40