Author: Kaytee Smith
North Carolina is home to some of the most beautiful state parks in the country, and while many are popular destinations for tourists and locals alike, there are a number of lesser-known parks that are just as stunning and worth visiting. These parks are often less crowded and offer a unique and serene experience for visitors. Here are some of the least visited state parks in North Carolina that you should add to your must-visit list.
- Merchants Millpond State Park: This park is located in Gatesville, NC and is known for its millpond, which is surrounded by lush vegetation and wildlife. The park offers hiking trails, kayaking, fishing, and bird-watching opportunities.
- Goose Creek State Park: This park is located in Washington, NC and is famous for its scenic views of the Goose Creek tidal estuary. The park offers hiking trails, fishing, boating, and picnicking opportunities.
- Jones Lake State Park: This park is located in Elizabethtown, NC and is known for its clear waters and sandy beaches. The park offers swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking opportunities.
- Elk Knob State Park: This park is located in Boone, NC and is known for its scenic views of the surrounding area. The park offers hiking trails, fishing, and picnicking opportunities.
- Gorges State Park: This park is located in Sapphire, NC and is known for its stunning gorges and waterfalls. The park offers hiking trails, fishing, and picnicking opportunities.
- Pettigrew State Park: This park is located in Creswell, NC and is known for its scenic views of the Tar River and Lake Phelps. The park offers hiking trails, fishing, boating, and picnicking opportunities.
- Dismal Swamp State Park: This park is located in South Mills, NC and is known for its scenic views of the Great Dismal Swamp. The park offers hiking trails, fishing, and boating opportunities.
- Lake James State Park: This park is located in Nebo, NC and is known for its clear waters and scenic views of the surrounding area. The park offers hiking trails, fishing, boating, and picnicking opportunities.
Each of these parks offers a unique and breathtaking experience for visitors, and their lack of crowds means that you can enjoy their beauty in peace and quiet. So why not add these parks to your next North Carolina adventure and experience the beauty of the state's lesser-known gems?