Pilot Mountain State Park’s Bean Shoals Access, located along the north side of the Yadkin River, has reopened following a construction project in 2024, the North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation announced.
The project included building three arched culverts over Horne Creek, a scenic overlook pavilion and parking area, and a stream restoration.
"This project was crucial to address longstanding issues at Bean Shoals Access," said State Parks Director Brian Strong. "Creating a safe access to the outdoor recreation on the river that also mitigates negative environmental impacts helps the division accomplish its mission of balancing conservation and recreation. We hope these improvements also result in a better overall visitor experience to the river section of Pilot Mountain State Park."
Prior to the construction project, which began in February 2024, visitors to Bean Shoals Access by vehicle needed to cross Horne Creek three times, presenting safety challenges for low-clearance vehicles. Periods of heavy rain made it dangerous for any vehicles to cross, blocking access to the north side of the river section entirely.
In addition, decades of vehicles fording through creek waters have negatively impacted the water quality of Horne Creek and the Yadkin River. The culverts now help prevent contaminants from flowing into the creek and help reduce sediment in the streams. The construction project also included 1,500 feet of stream restoration that addressed erosion and wear and tear from vehicular crossings.
Surry County funded the project through a $3.6 million grant from the state of North Carolina. The county worked with Resource Institute — a nonprofit organization that works to restore streams, rivers, and wetlands — on the stream restoration project. The Winston-Salem-based institute's mission is to enhance water quality, protect habitats, and support local economies.
"The Bean Shoals Access of Pilot Mountain State Park's Yadkin River Section is a true gem in Surry County, and we are thankful and excited that the access has been revitalized for our residents and tourists to enjoy," said Van Tucker, Surry County Commissioner. "The new bridges and improved overlook have dusted off and polished an important piece of our history, and we hope that new generations will frequent the access to appreciate one of the most unique and beautiful properties in Surry County and North Carolina.”
Bean Shoals Access provides access to three hiking trails. One of the hiking trails takes visitors to the remnants of the Bean Shoals Canal project, an 1820s endeavor to build a canal around the shallow and rocky shoals on the river that was never finished.
The Yadkin River State Trail includes this segment of the river, though paddlers must utilize the Shoals Fishing Area and Paddling Access, located on the south bank of the river, to launch their watercraft.
About North Carolina State Parks
North Carolina State Parks manages more than 262,000 acres of iconic landscape within North Carolina’s state parks, state recreation areas and state natural areas. It administers the N.C. Parks and Recreation Trust Fund, including its local grants program, as well as a state trails program, North Carolina Natural and Scenic Rivers and more, all with a mission dedicated to conservation, recreation and education. The state parks system welcomes more than 19 million visitors annually.
About the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources
The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency.