Are you planning a trip to North Carolina in 2024? If so, be sure to add these six underrated parks to your itinerary. These hidden gems offer a variety of activities, from hiking and camping to fishing and boating. And best of all, they’re all relatively unknown, so you won’t have to deal with the crowds. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to North Carolina today!
North Carolina is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse natural landscapes in the country. From the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains to the pristine beaches of the Outer Banks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And while there are many well-known parks in North Carolina, such as Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Cape Hatteras National Seashore, there are also a number of hidden gems that are just as worth visiting.
1. Eno River State Park
Eno River State Park is a 4,000-acre park located in Durham and Orange counties. The park is home to a variety of natural features, including the Eno River, which is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, and canoeing. There are also several hiking trails in the park, ranging from easy to challenging. One of the most popular trails is the Eno River Trail, which follows the river for 12 miles. The park also has a number of picnic areas and campsites, making it a great place to spend a day or weekend outdoors.
Things to do in Eno River State Park:
- Hike the Eno River Trail
- Swim, fish, or canoe in the Eno River
- Have a picnic in one of the park’s picnic areas
- Camp at one of the park’s campsites
2. Hammocks Beach State Park
Hammocks Beach State Park is a 1,900-acre park located on Bear Island, a barrier island off the coast of Onslow County. The park is home to a variety of coastal habitats, including beaches, dunes, and maritime forests. The park is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and fishing. There are also several hiking trails in the park, including the Bear Island Trail, which loops around the island for 3.5 miles. The park also has a number of picnic areas and campsites, making it a great place to spend a day or weekend camping on the beach.
Things to do in Hammocks Beach State Park:
- Swim, sunbathe, or fish on the beach
- Hike the Bear Island Trail
- Have a picnic in one of the park’s picnic areas
- Camp at one of the park’s campsites
3. Jockey’s Ridge State Park
Jockey’s Ridge State Park is a 426-acre park located in Dare County. The park is home to the tallest sand dunes on the East Coast, which are a popular spot for hang gliding and sandboarding. There are also several hiking trails in the park, including the Bodie Island Lighthouse Trail, which leads to the Bodie Island Lighthouse, a historic lighthouse that is still in operation. The park also has a number of picnic areas and a campground, making it a great place to spend a day or weekend exploring the sand dunes.
Things to do in Jockey’s Ridge State Park:
- Hang glide or sandboard on the sand dunes
- Hike the Bodie Island Lighthouse Trail
- Have a picnic in one of the park’s picnic areas
- Camp at the park’s campground
4. Morrow Mountain State Park
Morrow Mountain State Park is a 6,340-acre park located in Stanly County. The park is home to Morrow Mountain, a 2,000-foot mountain that is a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing. There are also several other hiking trails in the park, including the Uwharrie Trail, which runs through the park for 30 miles. The park also has a number of picnic areas and campsites, making it a great place to spend a weekend in the mountains.
Things to do in Morrow Mountain State Park:
- Hike to the top of Morrow Mountain
- Hike the Uwharrie Trail
- Rock climb on Morrow Mountain
- Have a picnic in one of the park’s picnic areas
- Camp at one of the park’s campsites
5. Stone Mountain State Park
Stone Mountain State Park is a 2,248-acre park located in Wilkes County. The park is home to Stone Mountain, a 600-foot granite dome that is a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing. There are also several other hiking trails in the park, including the Stone Mountain Loop Trail, which circles the mountain for 2.5 miles. The park also has a number of picnic areas and a campground, making it a great place to spend a day or weekend exploring the mountain.
Things to do in Stone Mountain State Park:
- Hike to the top of Stone Mountain
- Hike the Stone Mountain Loop Trail
- Rock climb on Stone Mountain
- Have a picnic in one of the park’s picnic areas
- Camp at the park’s campground
6. William B. Umstead State Park
William B. Umstead State Park is a 5,579-acre park located in Wake County. The park is home to a variety of natural features, including forests, lakes, and streams. The park is a popular spot for hiking, biking, and fishing. There are also several picnic areas and campsites in the park, making it a great place to spend a day or weekend outdoors.
Things to do in William B. Umstead State Park:
- Hike or bike on the park’s many trails
- Fish in one of the park’s lakes or streams
- Have a picnic in one of the park’s picnic areas
- Camp at one of the park’s campsites
Culture
North Carolina is a state with a rich and diverse culture. The state is home to a variety of ethnic groups, including Native Americans, African Americans, and Europeans. North Carolina is also home to a number of cultural institutions, including museums, theaters, and art galleries.
Best Months to Visit
The best time to visit North Carolina is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild. However, the state is beautiful year-round, and there are plenty of things to do in every season.
Nearby Transportation
North Carolina is easily accessible by car, plane, or train. The state is served by several major airports, including Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU).
Local Food
North Carolina is home to a variety of delicious local cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes include barbecue, fried chicken, and seafood.
Best Hotels
There are a number of great hotels located near the 6 Underrated Parks In North Carolina for 2024. Some of the most popular hotels include:
- The Umstead Hotel and Spa (Raleigh)
- The Durham Hotel (Durham)
- The Grove Park Inn (Asheville)
Conclusion
North Carolina is a beautiful state with a lot to offer visitors. If you’re looking for a place to explore the outdoors, learn about the state’s culture, or simply relax and enjoy the scenery, North Carolina is the perfect destination. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
