Camping Near Me in Bethania
Pilot Mountain State Park
1792 Pilot Knob Park Road, Pinnacle, NC
Rising abruptly more than 2,000 feet, Pilot Mountain has been a navigational landmark for centuries, and is a recreational landmark as well, offering miles of trails, camping, climbing and spectacular scenery. The mountain summit remains the principal park area, connected to the Yadkin River section by a 6.5-mile trail corridor. An extensive trail network is augmented by a bridle trail and a canoe trail section on the river. Family camping in a 49-site campground is augmented by riverside group camps and canoe-in sites. Rock climbing and rappelling are allowed on portions of the park’s steep cliffs, and those cliffs perched around the mountain’s summit offer seemingly endless views of piedmont, Sauratown Mountains and Blue Ridge Mountains.
Rising abruptly more than 2,000 feet, Pilot Mountain has been a navigational landmark for centuries, and is a recreational landmark as well, offering miles of trails, camping, climbing and spectacular scenery. The mountain summit remains the principal park area, connected to the Yadkin River section by a 6.5-mile trail corridor. An extensive trail network is augmented by a bridle trail and a canoe trail section on the river. Family camping in a 42-site campground is augmented by canoe-in sites. Rock climbing and rappelling are allowed on portions of the park’s steep cliffs, and those cliffs perched around the mountain’s summit offer seemingly endless views of piedmont, Sauratown Mountains and Blue Ridge Mountains.
Camping
Tent and trailer camping
The lower slopes of Pilot Mountain house the family camping area where 42 campsites for tents and trailers are scattered among oaks and hickories.
Each site has a tent pad, table and firepit/grill. Drinking water is available throughout the campground, and two washhouses with hot showers are located nearby.
Some campsites can accommodate RVs. Hookups and dump station are not provided.
Firewood may be obtained for sale from the campground host. Gathering wood in the park is not allowed.
The maximum number of people who can occupy a site is six. Sites are open March 15 through November 30.
Paddle-in camping
Two canoe campsites on the south bank of the river are available by reservation. Reservations must be made in advance.
No water or toilet facilities are provided. You must bring your own water and pack out all trash and waste.
Camping is allowed only in designated areas. No camping is allowed on the Yadkin River Islands.
Activities
Hiking
The park is a great place for a hike!
Paddling
Paddle the Yadkin River through the park on a segment of the Yadkin River Canoe Trail. The 165-mile trail follows the course of the river, passing through five reservoirs to the confluence of the Yadkin and Uwharrie rivers.
There are 38 canoe access sites along the trail. Shoals Access Site is a half mile upstream from the Yadkin Islands. Parts of the river are also suitable for rafting at times. Contact the park office for more information. Canoe rentals not available.
The two-mile portion of the Yadkin River that flows through the park is one of the most scenic stretches along the river's course. Enormous river birches overhang the water and sycamores dot the river banks. Here, the river is broad and shallow with many ripples. Two small islands, 45 and 15 acres in size, lie in the river. The islands may be reached by wading on foot or by canoe.
The river flows past Bean Shoals Canal Wall, part of an ambitious project undertaken between 1820 and 1825 to build a three-mile canal around Bean Shoals. The project was abandoned before completion. View these historic walls along Canal Trail.
Bicycling
The main park road is popular for hill climbing by bicycle. This should only be attempted by experienced cyclists wearing proper safety equipment. The road averages a 10% grade for 2.5 miles and has sections of 16% grades. It is recommended that cyclists plan their ride for the early morning hours when there is less vehicle traffic. Use caution on the descent and be advised that bicycles are subject to the same regulations pertaining to motor vehicles including exceeding safe speed and improper passing. There are no mountain bike trails in the park.
Fishing
Cast your line from the river banks and reel in dinner. Smallmouth bass, spotted bass and catfish are waiting to be caught! Anglers need a state fishing license and must obey the regulations of the NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
Climbing
Rock climbing and rappelling are favorite activities at Pilot Mountain where rocky cliffs offer a challenge to experienced climbers. Climbing is permitted only in designated areas; climbing and rappelling are not permitted on the Big Pinnacle. Contact the park office for further information.
All climbers must register with the park by completing a climbing and rappelling registration and activity permit which is available at the kiosk in the far righthand side of the summit parking lot. There is no fee for this permit. Prior to activity, a copy of the permit must be deposited in the registration box or given to a park ranger. An additional copy is provided for participants and must be held in their possession while engaged in climbing or rappelling.
Participants are responsible for their own personal safety, including securing proper training and equipment, and adhering to safe practices. Basic rock climbing safety equipment and techniques must be used at all time.
Climbing route closures: "Unnamed/P.Break" climbing route in the amphitheater has been permanently closed due to visitor use conflicts. The "Big Gully" is closed to all use (CLIMBING, HIKING, RAPPELLING, ETC.) for natural resource protection. This closure does not affect adjacent routes.
Climbers and Hikers are reminded that this area can become congested. Do not block the Ledge Springs trail with your gear, rope, dogs, or group. Pets must be attended (not tied off on a tree and left alone) and leashed while in the climbing area.
Picnicking
Picnic areas at Pilot Mountain offer a choice of shady dining spots. The picnic area in the Pilot Mountain section is located near the summit parking lot. Picnic tables and grills are surrounded by a pine and hardwood forest. Drinking water and restrooms are located nearby.
The picnic ground at the Yadkin River section of the park is approximately a mile from the shore of the river in a meadow along Horne Creek. Tables, grills, and waterless toilets are provided.
A covered picnic shelter is available at the summit. This shelter is not available for reservation due to the wait in line to get a parking space at the summit on weekends. We cannot guarantee the availability of this shelter unless you arrive early. This shelter has grills and drinking water. There are also picnic tables in a shaded area adjacent to the shelter.
Stone Mountain State Park
3042 Frank Parkway, Roaring Gap, NC
The massive granite dome at Stone Mountain State Park keeps watch on park visitors enjoying nearly every type of outdoor activity – camping, hiking, climbing, fishing, picnicking, horseback riding and more. There are more than 18 miles of trails, matched by more than 20 miles of designated trout waters in this park that spreads below the Blue Ridge Parkway. A campground offers 90 sites, some with utility hookups, and group and backpacking campsites are nearby. Rock climbing is allowed by permit on the towering, 600-foot granite face of the landmark mountain, and climbers look down on Hutchinson Homestead, a restored mid-19th century mountain farm. Expansive picnic grounds with shelters invite reunions and community gatherings.
Camping
Tent, trailer and RV camping
Just past the park office, a turnoff leads to the family campground where 90 campsites for tents and recreational vehicles are located on three loop roads.
Each site has a tent pad, picnic table and fire ring / grill. Drinking water and two washhouses with hot showers are located nearby.
Electric and water hookups are located on some sites and a dump station for use by registered RV campers is adjacent to the campground.
The campground and bathhouse are open year-round.
There is a fee for camping and a limit of six persons per site. Reservations are encouraged but any site not reserved is available on a first-come-first-served basis. Park gates are locked daily at posted closing hours. Family and group campgrounds remain open after hours via the Royal Camp Lane road.
Should you need assistance after hours you may contact our Campground Host located in A Loop-site 27. For a medical or law enforcement emergency call 911. An emergency phone is located at the Campground Contact Station.
Group camping
Four group sites are available for a fee by reservation only. Each site will accommodate 25 people.
Each site has a fire ring, grill, tables and access to water, restrooms and showers.
Backpack camping
Six backpack camping sites are located along Widow's Creek. The trailhead leading to the sites is located in the backpack parking lot. Distance to the sites ranges from 1.5 to 3 miles from the trailhead.
All supplies must be packed to the camping area, and minimum impact camping procedures should be followed.
Backpack camping is by permit only with a maximum of six people per site. Self register at the backpack camping parking lot. Backpack camping is prohibited in all other areas of the park.
Activities
Hiking
The park is a great place for a hike!
Fishing
Designated Trout Streams: More than 20 miles of park streams are designated trout waters. Rainbow and brown trout dominate the lower parts of the streams while brook trout inhabit the higher, cooler stretches of water. Garden, Widow's, Big Sandy, Bullhead and Rich Mountain creeks are Wild Trout Waters where only single hook artificial lures may be used.The East Prong of Roaring River is a stocked stream and is classified as delayed harvest. For approximately eight months of the year, no trout may be harvested from the river and only single hook artificial lures may be used.
For season dates and regulations for each type of trout water, contact the NC Wildlife Resources Commission (WRC). A valid North Carolina fishing license and trout license are required for all streams, and regulations of the WRC are enforced throughout the park.
Accessible Fishing Piers: Two accessible fishing piers are located along the East Prong of Roaring River. Accessible parking spaces are provided at each pier. Intended for use by individuals with mobility impairments, other individuals may use the piers when space is available.
Picnicking
The picnic area is located near the visitor center and offers a peaceful woodland experience. Included in this area are 75 individual picnic sites and three large picnic shelters. The picnic area offers tables, grills, a water fountain and restrooms. The picnic shelters may be reserved for a fee. Available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis, if not reserved. A short trail connects to the main loop trail to provide access to a waterfall and Stone Mountain's summit.
Rock Climbing
Climbing is permitted in designated areas on the cliffs of Stone Mountain. Because of the dangers of rock climbing and rappelling, climbing is not recommended for beginners unless they are accompanied by an experienced climber.
All climbers must register with the park by completing a climbing permit which is available at the climber's area at the base of the mountain. There is no fee for this permit. Prior to activity, a copy of the permit must be deposited in a registration box or given to a park ranger. An additional copy is provided for participants and must be held in their possession while engaged in climbing or rappelling.
Participants are responsible for their own personal safety, including securing proper training and equipment, and adhering to safe practices. Basic rock climbing safety equipment and techniques must be used at all time.
Sandy Creek Family Campground
969 Traphill-Brown Rd,, Traphill, NC
Our History:
Sandy Creek Family Campground began operations in late 2014. The campground is owned and run by the historic Hutchison and HIggin's families of Stone Mountain. The original Hutchison homestead sits at the base of Stone Mtn. proper. Notably the Higgin's homestead once sat where the Visitors center and Hemlock center now stand. Fruit trees (apple and red sweet cherry) still stand today in the surrounding visitor center fields that were once planted by Grandpa Higgins.
What we have to offer:
Full RV hookups (electricity and water) are available. We have 12 RV ready sites and 12 primitive campground sites. Our campground provides direct on foot access to the Stone Mountain State Park via hiking and riding trails. A stable for boarding horses is available and there is plenty of parking for your horse trailers.
Dogs are permitted in the campground so long as they are kept under control. Please respect the environment and pick up after yourself and your pet.
Come take a hike and visit all three waterfalls, have a picnic, fish in the creek, ride a bike, ride your horse, or just sit back and relax while enjoying the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. We provide full high speed wifi free to our visitors. Each RV site has a picnic table and each campground has a fire pit. We also offer field games such as badminton and horse shoe.
Our bathhouse is brand new and well maintained with handicapped accessible showers and amenities offered.
New River State Park
358 New River State Park Road, Laurel Springs, NC
The New River was named a National Wild and Scenic River in 1976 and it wildly winds through some of the best North Carolina mountain scenery. New River State Park is base camp for exploration of this river at two principal spots—Wagoner Road Access and US 221 Access. Both offer walk-in camping a few hundred feet from parking areas and both offer paddling access. Primitive, canoe-in camping is available at downstream access areas. Brief trips or multi-day excursions can be arranged with private outfitters or careful planning if visitors bring kayaks or canoes. It’s easy to combine paddling, camping, fishing, picnicking and wildlife viewing. A visitor center with exhibit hall complements interpretive programs on the river’s history and ecology, and a community building can be rented for family or group gatherings.
Camping
Wagoner Access Area – Tent and paddle-in camping
The walk-in/paddle-in campground offers bathroom facilities with hot-water showers. Campers may pack and carry supplies or paddle-in to these campsites.
A group campsite that can accomodate up to 35 campers is also available with reservations.
US 221 Access Area – Tent, trailer, RV and paddle-in camping
US 221 Access offers two camping areas. Both have bathroom facilities with hot-water showers.
The walk-in/paddle-in campground has 14 campsites and a group campsite with potable water. Campers may park and carry supplies or paddle in to these campsites.
At the drive-in campground, 20 campsites can accommodate both tents and RVs. Ten campsites are electric only, and 10 campsites have full (electric, water and sewer) hookups, two of which are ADA accessible. The drive-in campground also offers a dump station and potable water.
Alleghany Access Area – Paddle-in camping ONLY
Alleghany Access offers eight primitive campsites and a group campsite that are accessible only by paddling. The campground has a pit toilet and drinking water. All trash must be carried out.
Campsites are available by reservation only.
Riverbend Access Area – Paddle-in camping ONLY
Riverbend campsites offer the true primitive experience. There are four campsites that are paddle-in only and only available by reservation.
Small campfires are permitted in the rock fire-rings and all trash must be carried out. There is a pit toilet but no drinking water. Campers must check in at the Wagoner Access Area.
Activities
Hiking
The park is a great place for a hike!
Paddling
Easy paddling and spectacular scenery make the New River a natural canoe trail for inexperienced paddlers. Its shallow, gentle waters and mild rapids are perfect for beginners, families and groups, but even expert paddlers return again and again to experience the river's beauty and tranquility.
Along the course, small tributary streams merge with the river and minor rapids stir the water's surface, adding excitement as canoes are maneuvered downstream. The best months for higher water levels are May and June. August and September are low-flow periods.
Canoeists may leave their vehicles and launch canoes at the Wagoner Road Access Area, located at river mile 26, at the US 221 Access Area, located at river mile 15, or at the Kings Creek Access at river mile 7. All vehicles must register for overnight parking. Canoes may also be launched from several bridges and roadways that cross the river. Parts of the river are suitable for tubing at times. Contact the park office for outfitter tube and canoe rentals.
The Ashe County Chamber of Commerce offers canoe and outfitter information, as well as information about the local area. Visitors desiring to paddle the New River may contact their staff for launch location and take-out instructions.
Fishing
Cast your line from the river banks and reel in tonight's dinner. The south and north forks of the river provide some of the best smallmouth and redeye bass fishing in the region. The south fork downstream from the US 221 bridge is stocked with muskellunge. Trout fishing is excellent in the smaller, faster tributaries, most of which are designated general trout waters and are stocked regularly with rainbow and brown trout. Rockfish also migrate up the New River in the spring behind the shad. Anglers need a state fishing license and must obey the regulations of the NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
Picnicking
Each of the park's access areas includes a picnic area. Wagoner Road Access Area has a 10-table covered shelter with grills and a fireplace. The shelter is available for group gatherings and may be reserved. A grove of apple trees provides a canopy for 13 tables and two grills. Restrooms and drinking water are located nearby at the park office and the campground shower-house.
The US 221 Access Area, located at river mile 15, has a small picnic area downstream from the campground. Bathrooms are located between the campground and the picnic area. An 8-table shelter with a grill is also available by reservation.
The community building located at the 221 Access features a large meeting room, kitchen facilities and restrooms. Contact the park office for reservations and a fee schedule.
Three picnic tables are provided in an open meadow at the Alleghany County Access Area, located at river mile 1 near the Virginia border. This area can be reached only by canoe. A pit toilet and a pump for drinking water are also provided. The Kings Creek Access Area offers two tables and two grills with restrooms nearby.
Crowders Mountain State Park
522 Park Office Lane, Kings Mountain, NC
Companion peaks at Crowders Mountain State Park—The Pinnacle and Crowders Mountain—offer challenging hikes, towering cliffs and 25-mile views of the surrounding piedmont. Eleven trails range from pastoral to strenuous, including the Ridgeline Trail, which links to Kings Mountain State Park and Kings Mountain National Military Park in South Carolina. A nine-acre lake offers choice spots for fishing or an opportunity to try canoeing with rentals available. Backcountry camping is featured with individual sites approximately a mile from parking areas. The rugged terrain of Crowders Mountain lends itself to rock climbing and bouldering with permit in designated areas. A visitor center with museum-quality exhibits complements regular interpretive programs.
Camping
Backpack camping
When you've finished exploring for the day, settle in for a long night's sleep. Located approximately 1 mile from the park office are secluded areas for camping — areas so private that there is often not another person in sight. Both campgrounds are reached by trail and all supplies must be packed to the campsites. Campers must register at the visitor center.
Each family campsite has a grill, picnic table and two tent pads. Drinking water and vault toilets are provided. Forgoing a few of the comforts of home is worth it when every stream, tree and flower seems made just for you.
Group camping
Larger groups will enjoy fellowship in the backcountry group camping area. Sites 2-5 can accommodate 10 to 15 people, while sites 6-9 can accommodate up to 25 people.
Each site includes a fire ring with grill and three picnic tables. Drinking water and vault toilets are provided. Advance reservations are recommended.
Firewood
Firewood is available for $5.00 per locker.
No outside wood is allowed. Firewood from outside of the park can carry dangerous insects and diseases — such as the emerald ash borer — which can harm the forest.
Activities
Hiking
The park is a great place for a hike!
Paddling and Fishing
Watch a long, lazy afternoon slip away while enjoying the park’s beautifully wooded lake. Located near the park office and picnic areas, the seven-acre manmade lake has parking nearby.
Fish from choice fishing spots on the banks or try your luck on our fishing pier. Visitors and fishermen may launch personal canoes and kayak. Only human and electric powered watercraft allowed. Largemouth bass and sunfish are just waiting to be caught. Anglers age 16 or older must possess a valid North Carolina fishing license. Swimming is not permitted. Please be safe and wear a life vest while on the water!
Rock Climbing
Experienced climbers will enjoy the challenges of Crowders Mountain. Climbing is permitted in designated areas only. Pitons, bolts or similar devices that may damage cliff faces are not permitted. Further information may be obtained at the park office.
Bouldering
This form of rock climbing, done without anchors and ropes, is available at the Boulders a one mile hike from the Boulders Access Area. All climbing regulations, including the requirements of a permit, are in effect and some sections of Boulders may be closed to bouldering at certain times of the year. Check with park staff for more information.
Picnicking
The shade of large trees provides a spot for outdoor dining in a beautiful wooded area. Scattered throughout the picnic area are 10 tables with a grill at each table. There are five picnic tables at the Linwood Access Area and four at the Boulders Access Area. Drinking water and restrooms are located nearby.
Two large shelters with tables and grills are available for group picnics. Reservations are suggested to be certain they are available. Use of the shelters is free of charge and on a first-come, first-served basis unless reservations are requested.
South Mountains State Park
3001 South Mountain Park Avenue, Connelly Springs, NC
In one of the state’s most rugged areas, South Mountains State Park features elevations to 3,000 feet, an 80-foot waterfall, mountain streams and more than 40 miles of trails for hikers, equestrians and mountain bikers. A true backcountry experience is offered at 24 backpacking campsites at seven locations. Equestrian camping is available with trailer parking and barn to complement 33 miles of bridle trails. Mountain bikers enjoy a strenuous 17-mile loop. Drive-to campsites sit beside the Jacob Fork River, with the river and its tributaries offering miles of trout fishing. There are two picnic areas and a picnic shelter for groups. A visitor center offers museum-quality exhibits on the cultural and natural history of the South Mountains.
Camping
Tent, trailer and RV camping
Drive-to family camping is available a half mile east of the Jacob Fork parking area.
Eighteen campsites include a picnic table and fire circle, and one site is wheelchair accessible. Two of those campsites have electric hookups for RVs. There is no dump station.
A bathhouse with hot showers and drinking water are located nearby.
If you do not have a reservation, please stop by the park office for availability.
Backpack camping
Twenty-four backpack camping sites are offered in seven areas of the park.
These sites are designated on the park map, and hiking distances to each backpack camping site vary. Each camping area has a pit toilet located nearby.
All supplies, including water, must be packed to the sites. To drink water from nearby creeks and streams, use a filtration device or boil the water for at least five minutes.
Below is a listing of the backpack campsites and the distance between the campsites and the Jacob Fork parking area.
Upper Falls Trail - 1.4 miles
Little River - 1.4 miles
Shinny Creek -1.2 miles
Sawtooth Trail - 2.5 miles
Jacob Branch - 3.8 miles
Fox Trail - 4.9 miles
Murray Branch - 5.4 miles
Equestrian camping
The equestrian camping area adjacent to the horse trailer parking area consists of 15 campsites, a 33-stall barn (nine stalls are 5 feet by 10 feet and 24 stalls are 10 feet by 10 feet) and a washhouse with hot showers and flush toilets.
Campers without reservations must confirm site availability with park staff before occupying a site. Only campers with horses can stay at the equestrian campsites. Proof of a negative equine infectious anemia (Coggins) test is required for horses using the barn.
Activities
Hiking
The park is a great place for a hike!
Fishing
The park has many miles of streams where an angler can cast a line. Most of the streams are classified as wild trout water while approximately two miles are classified as delayed harvest trout water. While general trout regulations apply in this area for part of the year, only single hook artificial lures can be used from October through the first Friday in June, and every fish caught must be released. A special license is needed for trout fishing, and all rules and regulations of the NC Wildlife Resources Commission are enforced.
Mountain-bike trail
South Mountains State Park is one of the few parks in the state parks system offering mountain bicyclists the chance to ride through the park. The 17-mile loop trail is strenuous, so riders should be in good shape before attempting it.
Horseback riding
There are 33 miles of equestrian trails at South Mountains State Park. All visitors with horses must be able to provide proof of a negative equine infectious anemia (Coggins) test while visiting North Carolina State Parks.
Picnicking
Dining in the out-of-doors is a special treat at South Mountains State Park. The Jacob's Fork picnic area is adjacent to the Jacob Fork parking area and is accessible for persons with disabilities. Facilities include 12 tables, two grills and a restroom.
The Shinny Creek picnic area is less than a half mile from the Jacob Fork parking area. Four tables and three grills. A 10-table picnic shelter with fireplace and two charcoal grills are available on a first-come, first-serve basis unless reservations are made.
Cane Creek Park
5213 Harkey Rd, Waxhaw, NC
Cane Creek Park is a family-oriented, water-based recreation space that encompasses 1,050 acres of land surrounding a 350-acre lake. The park provides a natural and scenic environment for a variety of outdoor activities and peaceful relaxation year-round. The lake is home to some of the best largemouth bass fishing in the state as well as bluegill, crappie and catfish.
William B. Umstead State Park
8801 Glenwood Avenue, Raleigh, NC
Hikers, trail runners, bicyclists and equestrians cherish the extensive network of hiking and multi-use trails at William B. Umstead State Park. Trailheads on both sides of the park—accessible from Interstate 40 and US 70—surround three manmade lakes. The largest is Big Lake, offering canoe and rowboat rentals. Fishing is welcome at all the lakes and connecting tributaries. At both access areas, picnic grounds surround shelters with fireplaces that can be reserved. For organizations and nonprofit groups, primitive group campsites are available as well as two group camps with cabins, mess halls, and washhouses. Historic Maple Hill Lodge can be reserved for overnight group gatherings. A tent campground is open during summer months.
Camping
Tent camping
Stay a while and take time to enjoy the park. The tent campground is open April 1 through December 1. Twenty-eight campsites, well-shaded by a hardwood forest, offer picnic tables and grills. Hookups are not available, but drinking water and restrooms with showers are centrally located.
Primitive group camping
Two primitive campgrounds are open year round for organizations and nonprofit groups that want a more rugged camping experience. Reservations are required for use of these campgrounds.
The youth tent camp offers tent sites, a pit privy, fire ring, two picnic tables and running water. The camp accommodates up to 25 people.
Maple Hill Lodge is also available for groups. Facilities include a fireplace, drinking water, fire ring, picnic tables and restrooms. The lodge houses up to 25 people. The lodge is a historic landmark built in the 1930s. The lodge is an open room with no furniture. Campers must bring their own sleeping bags. The lodge is an overnight facility only and campers must checkout with a Ranger.
Group camping
Two group camps—Camp Crabtree and Camp Lapihio—are available to organizations and nonprofit groups. Each camp includes a mess hall, dining area, and washhouses. Located in the heart of the woodlands, each camp offers ample opportunity to explore the wonders of nature.
Group camps are open April through October and may be rented daily in spring and fall or weekly during the summer. Accommodating between 27 and 120 people, an entire camp may be rented or a unit of cabins may be rented. Fees vary accordingly. A minimum of 10 people is required to rent a group camp or unit. Reservations for the group camps must be made by calling or coming into the park office.
Activities
Hiking
The park is a great place for a hike!
Boating
Rent a canoe from the visitor center, (entrance off Glenwood Ave.) for boating on Big Lake. Relaxing on these small boats is the perfect way to spend an afternoon.
Bridle Trails
For people who prefer horseback, approximately 13 miles of bridle trails travel through some of the most scenic and secluded parts of the park. Signs mark the equestrian trails. Horses are restricted to these trails and are not permitted in other areas of the park, including hiking trails. Bridle trailhead parking is available on Sycamore Road past Maple Hill Lodge. All visitors with horses must be able to provide proof of a negative equine infectious anemia (Coggins) test while visiting North Carolina State Parks. All equestrians must check in at the Visitor Center prior to riding on the multiuse trails.
Cycling
William B. Umstead State Park is one of the few state parks offering trails for bicycling.The mountain-bike trails follow the same roads as the bridle trails and are entered at the same points. Bike trailhead parking is also available down Sycamore Road past Maple Hill Lodge. Mountain bikes are prohibited on the hiking trails.
Fishing
Three manmade lakes are part of the picturesque beauty of William B. Umstead State Park. The largest is Big Lake, which lies on Sycamore Creek. From the parking lot in the Crabtree Creek section, a broad gravel path leads to this 55-acre body of water. Further downstream is Sycamore Lake and, near the intersection of Crabtree and Reedy creeks, is Reedy Creek Lake. Sycamore and Reedy Creek lakes cover about 25 acres each.
Anglers will enjoy casting a line at William B. Umstead State Park. Fishing is permitted in each of the three lakes and in the connecting streams. Common catches include bass, bluegill and crappie. Regulations of the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission are enforced.
Picnicking
Take a picnic in the park; tables, grills and scenery are provided free of charge. A pine/hardwood forest forms a canopy for 40 picnic tables in the Crabtree Creek section. Reedy Creek offers 25 tables scattered under the trees. Drinking water, restrooms and parking are conveniently located nearby.
Crabtree Creek has two shelters for group picnics. One shelter accommodates up to 100 people; the second is for smaller gatherings of 20 people or less. A fireplace in each shelter offers an ideal setting for cool-weather dining. There are two shelters with fireplaces at Reedy Creek. One accommodates 125 people and has an attached stone deck; the second accommodates 60 people and is accessible. William B. Umstead State Park's picnic shelters are extremely popular, so reservations are suggested. Use of the shelters is free of charge unless reservations are made.
Mount Mitchell State Park
2388 State Highway 128, Burnsville, NC
One of those places that stand apart from the ordinary, Mount Mitchell’s dramatic summit is the highest point east of the Mississippi at 6,684 feet and was inspiration for one of the nation’s first state parks. From its easily accessible observation deck, the spruce-fir forest of Mount Mitchell State Park leads the eye to unmatched views. A museum explains the mountain’s cultural and natural history, and its trail network allows visitors to explore up close, offering short hikes near the summit and challenging treks leading to adjacent wilderness areas. A nine-site tent campground is open in warm-weather months, and backpacking opportunities abound, including entry onto the Mountains-to-Sea State Trail. A concession area and a full-service restaurant serve visitors from May to October.
Hammocks Beach State Park
1572 Hammocks Beach Road, Swansboro, NC
A crown jewel of the North Carolina coast and Hammocks Beach State Park is Bear Island—a 3-mile-long, undeveloped barrier island accessible by the park’s passenger ferry or private ferry, or by paddling a canoe or kayak. A wide beach between massive dunes and the ocean is interrupted only by primitive campsites and a modest concession/picnic complex. The park’s mainland gateway offers a full-service visitor center and is the launch site for ferry service, canoes or kayaks. Rent or bring your own kayaks, canoes or paddleboards to explore paddling trails leading to marshes, Bear Island or Huggins Island, which is graced with unspoiled maritime forest. Interpretive programs and extensive exhibits teach about park ecology and wildlife including endangered sea turtles and nesting shorebirds.
Camping
Backpack and group camping*
*All camping sites are located on Bear Island and are accessible via ferry, private boat or paddling only.
Primitive campsites are located near the beach and the inlet. Fourteen family campsites accommodate six people and two tents each.
Light and simple is the way to travel as campers must carry all provisions to the campsites from the beach or ferry dock.
There are three group campsites, available to affiliated groups only; one accommodates up to 26 people, while the other two accommodate up to 16 people each. Group campsites are reserved locally at Hammocks Beach State Park.
Campsites are open year-round. Water and other facilities are available on the island, except from mid-November through mid-March when the facilities are winterized.
Fires are not permitted, and campers must remove all trash. Camping is permitted only on numbered sites and permits must be obtained from the park office on the mainland.
Campers must register in the park office on the mainland before going to Bear Island. All vehicles left in the parking lot overnight must be registered at the park office or they are subject to towing.
Activities
Boating
Journey to the island by private boat or marine taxi. Boats may be beached or tied at the island bulkhead, but please do not dock along the ferry pier. When traveling to the island by boat, navigate along the ferry route; boating in the inlet can be dangerous.
Canoeists and kayakers may reach Bear Island and explore the marsh by way of a designated canoe trail. Markers placed along the route indicate points of interest along the way.
Fishing
Puppy drum, flounder, trout and blue fish are frequent catches on Bear Island. Fishing at Hammocks Beach is a favorite pastime in all seasons but is particularly good in the fall.
A Coastal Recreational Fishing License is required to fish in North Carolina. There is no fishing access on the mainland.
Swimming
Take a dip or catch a wave. A portion of the beach is a designated swimming area. There are lifeguards on duty in the designated swimming area most days from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Picnicking
Pack a picnic to enjoy under a covered shelter that offers respite from the sun. A concession stand provides cold drinks and snacks from Memorial Day through Labor Day.