North Carolina is one of the most interesting U.S. states in the east. You have the beautiful Atlantic Coast on the eastern side of the state and the breathtaking natural areas throughout the rest of the state as well as the various vibrant cities and towns spread out across the state.
One big attraction that many people flock to is the Blue Ridge Mountains and specifically the Blue Ridge Parkway and the national forests surrounding the parkway. These are a definite must-see, but if you’re spending time in North Carolina there are several other smaller state parks you need to visit, too, with notable sights to see. You probably won’t have time to hit all of them so we’ve included just a few of the best below.
Chimney Rock State Park
If you’re looking to get an amazing view of the area surrounding Lake Lure, this state park is the place to do it. Chimney Rock State Park provides a vantage point to see the whole area around this beautiful and iconic rock formation. The park itself hosts some of the best hiking trails in the state, too. If you’re an active person who loves to hike and explore, this state park is an absolute must visit.
There are plenty of campgrounds to stay at near the state park. While there are many places to go, we’d still suggest making a reservation. While campgrounds are plentiful, I’d suggest either Hickory Nut Falls Family Campground or the Hitching Post Campground. Both offer a beautiful place to park your RV and full hook-up campsites if you want it.
Hanging Rock State Park
Another spot for breathtaking views in North Carolina is the Hanging Rock State Park. Known for its unique rock formations and absolutely beautiful waterfalls and hiking trails, this park is located just northeast of Greensboro and almost directly north of Winston-Salem. It offers dozens of hiking trails, rock climbing opportunities, swimming and much more. If you’re in the northern part of North Carolina, then it’s worth visiting.
There are campsites you can easily park your RV at right in the park. However, not every campsite is RV friendly. I suggest making a reservation and planning ahead of time. This will ensure you not only have a campsite but that it’s the right one. If you don’t want to camp in the park, there are numerous campground around it. I’d suggest the Sunset Park Campground in Danbury. It’s only 12 minutes away.
Jockey’s Ridge State Park
If you’re going to North Carolina, the Outer Banks is a must-see area, and one of the best places to stop along that string of barrier islands is Jockey’s Ridge State Park, which is home to some of the biggest sand dunes in the country and the tallest on the Atlantic Coast. The dunes can feel otherworldly, and the park itself is home to all kinds of natural wonders. You can hike the trails, take the family on a picnic, or even hang glide with an instructor if you want.
When it comes to where you should park your RV, you can stop in at any one of the several RV parks or campgrounds in the area. I’d suggest OBX Campground or The Refuge on Roanoke Island both are a short drive from the state park and offer accommodations for RVs.
Are there any state parks in North Carolina you think to have to be included here? Leave a comment below!
