South Mountains State Park

The largest state park in North Carolina extends across mountains reaching 3,000 feet in elevation and features an 80-foot waterfall along Jacob Fork River.

The North Carolina government established South Mountains State Park in 1975, protecting 18,000 acres of natural terrain between the Appalachian Mountains and foothills.

The park maintains educational programs at its visitor center, teaching about local wildlife, forest ecosystems, and mountain heritage through exhibits and ranger-led activities.

The park provides 47 miles of hiking trails, 35 miles for horseback riding, and 17 miles for mountain biking, plus camping facilities with electric hookups.

The park includes special trout waters in Jacob Fork River, where anglers can fish in designated catch-and-release sections during specific seasons.

Location: Burke County

Inception: 1975

Website: http://www.ncparks.gov/south-mountains-state-park

Opening Hours: Lundi-Dimanche 08:00-18:00

Website: http://ncparks.gov/south-mountains-state-park

GPS coordinates: 35.59860,-81.65970

Latest update: May 16, 2025 06:04