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Blowing Rock area Facilities

Note: telephone area code is 828

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Blowing Rock area Campgrounds

Note: telephone area code is 828

other Blowing Rock area Recreation Facilities

  • Beaches
  • Marinas
  • Parks
  • Shows
  • Trails

Privately owned/operated facilities:

Property Blowing Rock
except as noted		 828+except
as noted
Buffalo Camp Ground 102 Harding Dr 295-7518
Morgan's Mountain Retreat 668 Mine Branch 264-2170
     

Blowing Rock area Recreation Facilities Directory

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RV Parks:

Property Blowing Rock
except as noted		 828+except
as noted
     

Blowing Rock area Recreation Facilities Directory

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Boone area Facilities

Note: telephone area code is 828

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Boone area Campgrounds

Note: telephone area code is 828

other Boone area Recreation Facilities

  • Beaches
  • Marinas
  • Parks
  • Shows
  • Trails

Privately owned/operated facilities:

Property Boone
except as noted		 828+except
as noted
Appalachian Campground 339 Ray Brown Rd 264-4505
Flintlock Campground 171 Flintrock Campground Dr 963-5325
Honey Bear Campground 229 Honey Bear Campground Rd 963-4004
Vanderpool Campgrounds 1171 Charlie Thompson Rd, Vilas 297-3486
     

Boone area Recreation Facilities Directory

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RV Parks:

Property Boone
except as noted		 828+except
as noted
Grandfather RV Mountain Campground Hwy. 105 Near Foscoe/P.O. Box 2060 963-7275
Hitchin Post RV Park 338 Wildwood Dr, Deep Gap 264-5367
     

Boone area Recreation Facilities Directory

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Jefferson area Facilities

Note: telephone area code is 336

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Jefferson area CAMPGROUNDS

Note: telephone area code is 336

Other Jefferson area Recreational Facilities

New River State Park Campgrounds

The New River State Park provides several primitive campgrounds.

Alleghany access: 8 primitive campsites which can only be accessed by canoe or foot. Tables, grills, drinking water and nearby pit toilets are provided.

Wagoner Road Access: 10 primitive campsites accessed by motor vehicle (motorists must carry their supplies to the campsites) or canoe. Tables, grills, drinking water and nearby pit toilets are provided. Motorists may park, launch their canoes and paddle downstream to a take-out ramp at the campground.

US 221 Access: 9 primitive sites. Tables, grills, drinking water and nearby pit toilets are provided.

Note: All campers must register (registration boxes at the campsite or register directly at the park office). A small fee is charged.

More information: New River State Park

Jefferson area Recreation Facilities Directory

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Privately owned/operated facilities:

Property Jefferson
except as noted		 828+except
as noted
Greenfield Campground 1795 Mount Jefferson Rd, West Jefferson 246-9106
Hawk Terrace Lodge Park & Campground, LLC 503 Hawk Terrace Trail, Crumpler 982-8474
Miller's Campground 973 Miller Rd, Laurel Springs 359-8156
Raccoon Holler Campground 493 Raccoon Holler Rd, Glendale Springs 982-2706
Zaloo's Canoes 3874 NC-16 S 246-3066 or
800-535-4027
     

Jefferson area Recreation Facilities Directory

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RV Parks:

Property Jefferson
except as noted		 828+except
as noted
Hawk Terrace Lodge Park & Campground, LLC 503 Hawk Terrace Trail, Crumpler 982-8474
     

Jefferson area Recreation Facilities Directory

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Jefferson area PARKS

Note: telephone area code is 336

Other Jefferson area Recreational Facilities

Mount Jefferson State Natural Area - Jefferson

The Mt. Jefferson State Natural Area was selected as a National Natural Landmark because of its exceptionally beautiful oak and hickory forest. With its scenic vistas of the surrounding mountains and colorful displays of purple rhododendron, mountain laurel and azalea (blooming season extends from late April through June) and other mountain flora the short detour to take in Mt. Jefferson is sure to be rewarding.

Accessible Facilities: A parking space and the paved path to the picnic area are wheelchair friendly.

There are 19 picnic tables and 7 grills near the summit parking lot plus 1 picnic shelter with 6 tables a grill and a fireplace.

Hiking Trails
Rhododendron Trail, a 1.1 mile moderately difficult self-guiding nature trail is a long, narrow loop between the summit of Mt. Jefferson and an exceptional vista atop Luther's Rock overlook with its famous view of the New River. The walk many sites along the trail provide information about the natural history of the park. To get to the Rhododendron Trail you must make the climb up . . .
Summit Trail, a short .3 mile but strenuous climb up the steep summit of Mt. Jefferson.

Canoes can be launched at nearby New River State Park.

The park naturalists (by advance special request) will guide groups and describe the natural history of the area and, perhaps, indulge in telling a story or two based on ancient Native American legends. E-mail the park for a program which advertises upcoming hikes and events.

Park hours: November thru February 9a-5p; March and October 9a-6p; April, May and September 9a-7p; June through August 9a-8p. Office hours: 8a-12noon Monday through Friday. Gates are locked when the park is not in operation (opened only for emergency situations).  The park is closed Christmas Day.

Postal address: P.O. Box 48, Jefferson, NC 28604. Park Office: 336-246-9653; Fax: 336-246-3386; e-mail: moje@skybest.com

Directions: Mt Jefferson is 0.5 miles south of Jefferson.
Follow NC-163 south to SR-1149; continue into the park on SR-1152.

More information: Mount Jefferson State Natural Area

Jefferson area Recreation Facilities Directory

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New River State Park - Jefferson

Note: telephone area code is 336

The New River waterway, which includes over 26 miles of the South Fork of the New River, has been designated as a National Wild and Scenic River and an American Heritage River. The New River is one of the oldest rivers in the world. Canoes only are allowed on the river. Because the river is mostly gentle (there are a few easy-to-negotiate rapids) canoeing is very popularr here. Canoes may be launched from sites next to the parking areas at both the Wagoner Road Access and the US 221 Access. There are also several bridges near which canoes may be launched but no parking is available.

The picnic shelter and restrooms at the Wagoner Road Access are wheelchair friendly.

The Wagoner Road Access area has two trails - one, a short self-guided walk and a longer, perimeter trail,  both of moderate difficulty. The Alleghany Access (not accessible by motor vehicle) has one trail which is also of moderate difficulty.

Each of the park's three access areas has a picnic area.

  • Alleghany County Access Area (accessible by foot or canoe only): 4 picnic tables situated in an open meadow. A pit toilet and drinking water are provided.
  • Wagoner Road Access Area, next to the parking area near the park office: 33 tables and 14 grills. Restrooms and drinking water are available nearby at the park office. There are also two smaller picnic areas, one on the bank of the New River and the other next to an old homesite.
    Also available is a 12 table, covered picnic shelter (with fireplace and grill) for group gatherings. Reservations are recommended. (Another picnic shelter is scheduled to be completed this year.)
  • US 221 Access, next to the main parking lot just down the river from the campground: 14 tables with 3 grills and nearby drinking water. A pit toilet is also available.

New River State Park provides several primitive campgrounds. Tables, grills, drinking water and nearby pit toilets are provided. Automobile accessible campsites are in the Wagoner Road and the US 221 Access Areas. The campsites at the Alleghany Access Area are accessible only by canoe or foot.

According to the park rangers, the New River provides about the best smallmouth and redeye bass fishing in the region. Trout fishing is excellent in the colder, faster moving tributary creeks (regularly stocked). Regulations of the NC Wildlife Resources Commission are strictly enforced.

Food and Drink--Vending Machines

Park Hours: November through February 8a-6p; March and October 8a-7p; April, May and September 8a-8p; June through August 8a-9p. Office hours: 8a-5p Monday through Friday. Gates are locked when the park is not in operation (opened only for emergency situations).  The park is closed Christmas Day.

Postal address: 1477 Wagoner Access Road, Jefferson, NC 28640-0048. Park office: (336) 982-2587; FAX (336) 982-3943; e-mail: neri@skybest.com

Directions: The New River State Park is located in both Ashe and Alleghany counties and has three designated recreational access areas - 2 from state roads and one by canoe only.

  • Alleghany Access Area is at river mile 1 and may only be reached by canoe or foot.
  • The Wagoner Road Access is at river mile 26. It is approximately 8 miles southeast of Jefferson. Take NC-88 to SR 1590. 1.2 miles east of the intersection of NC 16 and NC 88.
  • The US 221 Access Area, at river mile 15, is 8 miles northeast of Jefferson, and may be reached by US 221.

More information: New River State Park

Jefferson area Recreation Facilities Directory

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Jefferson area TRAILS

Note: telephone area code is 336

Other Jefferson area Recreational Facilities

Mount Jefferson State Natural Area Trails

Hiking Trails

  • Rhododendron Trail, a 1.1 mile moderately difficult self-guiding nature trail is a long, narrow loop between the summit of Mt. Jefferson and an exceptional vista atop Luther's Rock overlook with its famous view of the New River. The walk many sites along the trail provide information about the natural history of the park. To get to the Rhododendron Trail you must make the climb up . . .
  • Summit Trail, a short .3 mile but strenuous climb up the steep summit of Mt. Jefferson.

New River State Park Trails

Wagoner Road Access area hiking trails:

Alleghany Access area hiking trails:

New River Canoe Trail:

  • The New River State Park has an ideal layout for weekend paddlers. From the NC-88 near the southern boundary of the park to VA-93 just beyond the northern boundary (and the NC/VA state line) is almost 30 miles of mostly gentle flowing river. There are several easy-to-shoot rapids to add a little excitement but even beginners shouldn't have any trouble. The park has three primative campgrounds. From the Wagoner Access area (near NC-88) to theUS-221 Access area is about 10 miles. Continuing downstream to the Alleghany Access area (no motor vehicle access here) is another 14.6 miles. Each of the three access areas has some primative campsites next to the river. Depending on how long you wish to take (there are many tributaries to explore) you can take two days or three. Camping is only $5 per night. Of course someone has to drive the carr from the launch to the take-out sites.

Jefferson area Recreation Facilities Directory

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Sparta area Facilities

Note: telephone area code is 336

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Sparta area CAMPGROUNDS

Note: telephone area code is 336

Other Sparta area Recreational Facilities

Stone Mountain State Park Campgrounds

6 designated backpacking sites are available year-round on a first-come-first-serve basis. Accessed via Widow's Creek Trail (sites are from 1.5 to 3 miles from the trailhead).

37 tent/trailer campsites available on a 'first come first served' basis. Permits are issued at the campsite. Each has a table with grill and  nearby toilet facilities and showers. Firewood may be purchased from the park staff. Maximum occupancy of each campsite is six people and up to two cars.

6 group campsites are available by reservation only.  Contact the park office for more information.

Sparta area Recreation Facilities Directory

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Privately owned/operated facilities:

Property Sparta
except as noted		 828+except
as noted
Hidden Valley Campground Chestnut Grove Rd 372-8911
Little River Campground   372-5259
New River Canoe Rentals Rte 2, Box 238A 372-8793
River Camp USA 1 River Camp Rd. (at SR-1308), Piney Creek 359-2267 or
800-226-6384
     

Sparta area Recreation Facilities Directory

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RV Parks:

Property Sparta
except as noted		 828+except
as noted
     

Sparta area Recreation Facilities Directory

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Sparta area PARKS

Note: telephone area code is 336

Stone Mountain State Park - Sparta

Stone Mountain is a stunning 600 foot 350 million year old volcanic outcrop of ancient granite frequently described as a mini-moonscape. It is actually visible from the Stone Mountain Overlook on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Stone Mountain has been designated as a National Natural Landmarrk and is the largest of many such volcanic outcrops in this twentyfive mile square area just east of the Parkway. Stone Mountain State Park, at 13,670 acres, is the largest park in the North Carolina State Park System. It is easy to reach the park from the Blue Ridge Parkway (via US-21) and is a very popular excursion (see: Directions to park). Stone Mountain Park offers a range of attractions and reational activities:

In June there are the world-famous rhododendron to add additional excitement to your visual sense (best viewed from the trails).

Parking in designated spots, all pathways, the visitors' center, washhouse, and two campsites are wheelchair friendly.

Park Hours: Nov-Feb 8a-6p; Mar and Oct 8a-7p; Apr, May and Sep 8a-8p; Jne-Aug 8a-9p. Office hours: 8a-12p Mon thru Fri. Gates are locked when the park is not in operation (opened only for emergency situations) .  The park is closed Christmas Day.

There are six hiking trails covering over twelve miles. The waterfalls and the many granite outcrops in the area are of particular interest to most visitors but there is also very good fishing in the native streams and a special 'catch and release' area.  A bridle trail is accessed from the John P. Frank Parkway near the Park entrance. Contact the park office for more information.

Many waterfalls are visible from the hiking trails. Stone Mountain Falls, where the stream drops 200 feet onto more rock below, is a major park attraction. All the falls are well worth the effort to view them - even if you aren't hiking just for exercise.

Stone Mountain boasts an ideal rock face where climbing is permitted (in designated areas).  Bolts are already in place and no new bolts are to be placed in the rock.  All climbers must register before starting out.  Contact the park office for more information.

Mailing Address: 3042 Frank Parkway, Roaring Gap, NC 28668
Office Phone: 336-957-8185; Fax: 336-957-3985; e-mail: stonemtn@infoave.net
To view a 'jpeg' rendition of the park map, Click Here » View Park Map

Directions to park:
From I-77 exit 83 take US-21 north (toward Sparta) to SR-1002 (1 mi north of Thurmond). Turn left (west) on SR-1002 and continue 4.5 mi to Traphill. Turn right (north) on SR-1784 (John P Frank Parkway) and it's another 2 mi.to the park entrance.

From Sparta (and the Blue Ridge Parkway) take US-21 south, through Roaring Gap to the Beech Mountain turnoff, Turn right as if going to Beech Mtn but continue on SR-1100 (you'll cross into Wilkes County) to the John P Frank Parkway. Turn right and it's another 2 mi.to the park entrance. Optionally (to miss the gravel road which isn't bad but can be dusty in the summer) continue on US-21 through Doughton to the SR-1002 turnoff. Turn right on SR-1002 and continue 4.5 mi to Traphill. Turn right (north) on SR-1784 (John P Frank Parkway) and it's another 2 mi.to the park entrance.

From N. Wilkesboro take NC-18 north to SR-1002 (about 3 mi). Turn right and follow SR-1002 to Traphill (about 20 mi). Turn left (north) on SR-1784 (John P Frank Parkway) and it's another 2 mi.to the park entrance.

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Sparta area TRAILS

Note: telephone area code is 336

Other Sparta area Facilities

Stone Mountain State Park Trails

There are six named hiking trails covering over twelve miles plus many incidental trails covering an estimated additional eight to ten miles. There is also an excellent bridle trail. The waterfalls and the many granite outcrops in the area are of particular interest to most hikers but there is also very good fishing in the native streams accessible via the trails.

To view a 'jpeg' rendition of the park map, Click Here » View Park Map

Go to Trails Directory <> Go to Sparta area Recreational Facilities Directory

Bridle Trail

Stone Mountail Park has an excellent bridle trail which is accessed from the John P. Frank Parkway near the Park entrance. Although rocky in places your mounts should have no difficulty in traversing it. It winds westward across the park past Lower Falls, fords Big Sandy Creek and then passes Middle Falls. Many views of the granite outcroppings are visible from the trail. The bridle trail terminates at a gravel area at SR-1739 near East Prong Roaring River.

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Cedar Rock Trail

Cedar Rock Trail is a 1 mile loop around the Cedar Rock dome. It is considered moderate to strenuous. You follow Stone Mountain Trail past the Stone Mountain Nature Trail loop to where Cedar Rock Trail breaks off to the right.

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Stone Mountain Falls Trail

This 1.2 mile trail is the primary access to the 200 foot drop waterfall now named Stone Mountain Falls. 

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Stone Mountain Trail

Probably the most challenging trail in the park - it is 4.0 mile length and strenuous - the Stone Mountail trail climbs the Stone Mountain granite dome then descends by Stone Mountain Falls (accessed by beautifully constructed wooden steps). You also are routed by the face of Climbers Rock where you can see and hear the brave ones friction climbing the granite face. The trail is frequently steep but, before it gets too bad, you are offered steps (which also offer level spots to stand and rest a bit). The trail; passes over several of the many granite domes. These can be slippery and very dangerous when wet so check with the park office if at all in doubt about the trail condition.

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Summit Trail

While just a short, 0.75 mile spur the Summit Trail is a strenuous climb to the top of the dome.

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Widow's Creek Trail

Widow's Creek Trail is a 3.3 mile, moderate to strenuous descent to Widdow's Creek. This is the trail which backpack campers take to reach the 6 designated backpacking sites. There are some very interesting, unmarked, side trails. The trailhead is not at the main trailhead but over on the west side of the John P. Frank Parkway Loop.

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Wolf Rock Trail

Wolf Rock Trail is a 1.5 mile, strenuous climb up the Wolf Rock dome. While not as challenging as the Summit Trail the view is every bit is good and the trail (has been) much less crowded. The footing on the steep granite faces can be slippery and very dangerous when wet so check with the park office if at all in doubt about the trail condition.

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Sparta area WATERFALLS

Note: telephone area code is 336

Stone Mountain Falls

Accessed by a 1.2 mile trail, this mighty 200 foot drop waterfall is one of the most magnificent of the Carolina hydro-spectaculars.  The specially-constructed wood staircase, which allows safe access to the base of the falls, shows the concern of the NC Parks Division for your safety. And it certainly makes access so much easier than climbing down a steep, rocky (and probably slipery) trail - and back up again. But there are a lot of stairs to climb on your way up so - be prepared.

Two other falls are also on Big Sandy Creek: Middle Falls and Lower Falls. They are also accessable from the Stone Mountain Falls Trail. They aren't as dramatic as Stone Mountain Falls but, if you love waterfalls, you will certainly enjoy them.

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