Due to snow/ice accumulation, flooding or other hazardous conditions, some state parks and facilities may be closed. Before your visit, be sure to check the specific park's Web page for current conditions or call the park office. (2/8/10)
NOTE: The Blue Ridge Parkway approach to Mount Mitchell from the Asheville area (south of the park) is closed for the winter. Access from NC 80 to the north can be closed on short notice due to weather. If in doubt, call the park office for current conditions before your visit. Daily-updated road closure information can also be obtained on the Blue Ridge Parkway information line at (828)298-0398 24 hrs. a day.
Severe winter storms above 6,000 feet are unpredictable and can be life-threatening. Fog and winds can impede search-and-rescue crew and helicopter access. Hike and camp in the back country at your own risk.
NEVER rely on GPS, cell-phone, or rescue beacon devices to prevent/survive emergency situations.
ALWAYS be prepared for the worst weather. Closure of the Blue Ridge Parkway occurs frequently when snow & ice accumulate. Be prepared to stay extra days or pack up and leave upon request by a park ranger at any time.
Black bears have been active in and around the park, inflicting damage to vehicles and camping equipment. All of these incidents have resulted from the improper storage of food, toiletries, and trash.
NEVER feed bears. They can lose their fear of people and may have to be destroyed.
NEVER leave food unattended, even if in coolers. Secure ONLY in bear-proof container or car trunk with windows completely rolled up.
Campground Safety You MUST secure all food, garbage, and any items that might smell like food to a bear (toothpaste, mouthwash, deodorant, cosmetics, pet food, cooking and cleaning supplies, stove fuel, etc.) in the bear-proof storage container available at each campground site.
Backcountry Camping and Hiking Safety Foraging bears have been active and sometimes aggressive at the Commissary Ridge area. Bear-resistant food canisters or storage sacks are highly advised, otherwise food MUST be hung correctly at least 150 feet away from tent. Food bags should hang 5- feet below the branch, 5-feet from the tree trunk, and be at least 10-feet off the ground. Bears can and will climb trees and can easily reach food bags suspended at heights under 10 feet.
Failing to behave properly places you and your fellow visitors at risk for property damage and severe personal injury.
Due to snow and ice on the Blue Ridge Parkway there is no vehicle access presently. Road and weather conditions can change suddenly in winter, contact the park office or the Blue Ridge Parkway information line at 828. 298-0358 before you visit
Welcome to the North Carolina State Parks reservations portal
It's a great way to choose among more than 3,000 campsites as well as vacation cabins,
picnic shelters, community buildings and other facilities at our 38 state parks and state
recreation areas. We're able to offer this service in partnership with InfoSpherix, a leader
in the reservations industry. Reservations may be made online, by calling our toll-free
number or in person by visiting most state park offices/visitor centers during regular hours.
We hope you'll explore and enjoy our 'Naturally Wonderful' state parks.
