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What to Do in North Carolina’s State Parks

Fishing to Rock Climbing, Kayaking to Picnics

North Carolina, from the coast to the border, contains a multitude of state parks featuring everything from beach lounging to vigorous rock climbing. Strap on your hiking boots, pack up the camera, and keep thqt swimsuit handy – we’re heading to North Carolina.

Before you hit the trails, download “Pocket Ranger” – the free North Carolina State Parks Guide smartphone application. This is a handy tool ready to help you create the best itinerary for you. Yet another aid during your time in the Tar Heel State, Best Western hotels throughout North Carolina.

Lumber River State Park

The Lumber River State Park is quite the experience on nearly 10,000 acres. Set in the coastal plain region of North Carolina along the Lumber River, this park offers its visitors everything from relaxing days under the sun to outdoor adventure on two feet.

Unwind in Lumber River State Park with nature photography and wildlife viewing, or set out for a day of boating on the Lumber River. Attention anglers: You can cast out and reel in some black crappie, catfish, and largemouth bass. Set out for Princess Ann hiking trails like Chalk Banks Trail, get a look at the Griffin's Whirl, or take to 115 miles of scenic waters by canoe or kayak.

Cap off your day at the park with a meal at the 100-seater picnic area, or head 30 minutes north to the Best Western hotel in Lumberton. Ready for a road trip? Other prideful parks of North Carolina include the Great Smoky Mountains National Park near Murphy, or the Chimney Rock Park close to Asheville.

Hammocks Beach State Park

A highlight of coastal North Carolina, Hammocks Beach State Park takes up more than 1,000 acres of pristine coastline. Neighboring the city of Swansboro, Hammocks is an ideal getaway for any family. Take a dip, pack a picnic, and spend the day fishing off Bear Island, Huggins Island, and Jones Island.

Break out the rod and reel and spend the day reelin in trout, flounder and puppy drum. Explore Bear Island’s marshy canoe trail by canoe or kayak, or try boating around the island after you step off the ferry.

Brought your suit? We know you did. Splash around the swimming area or stretch out on the beach with a book or a picnic lunch. Vacation season looks good on you at Hammocks Beach State Park.

After a day on the beach or in the boat, take a break from the sun at the Best Western hotel in Swansboro – less than five miles from Hammocks Beach State Park.

Crowders Mountain State Park

Set in the Piedmont region of North Carolina, the Crowders Mountain State Park is a paradise for advanced hikers. Crowders encompasses more than 5,000 acres of forestland, including peaks like King's Pinnacle and the well-known Crowder's Mountain.

Check out stunning views of North Carolina – up to 25 miles out – at the top of Crowder's Mountain by way of the three-mile Crowders Trail. Other trails leading to the peak include the one-mile Backside Trail, and the vigorous Rocktop Trail – recommended for advanced rock climbers only. After your trek, saddle up to one of nearly 30 picnic tables in Crowders Mountain State Park – all free to the public. If you’d rather be on the water, rent a canoe for some paddling on the nine-acre lake, not to mention bream and bass fishing.

Crowders Mountain State Park is just a 20-minute drive from the Best Western hotel in Gastonia. Heading back to town? You can choose from several Best Western hotels throughout the Charlotte metropolitan area, including Monroe and Statesville. Head out for hiking, head in for comfort.