Topics Related to Grandfather Mountain State Park

Ranger Workshop - Grandfather Mountain History & Ecology

February 18, 2026, 2pm - 3:30pm
What makes Grandfather Mountain State Park so special?  Join us for a PowerPoint presentation explaining how Grandfather Mountain State Park was created, and why we are so fortunate to be an International Biosphere Reserve. Take a journey through each of our 16 distinct natural communities, and some of the 73 rare and endangered species that call this mountain home.

State Parks Closures Through October, All Programming Canceled Across the State

All North Carolina state parks west of Interstate 77 are closed through at least Oct. 31.

Five Western N.C. State Parks to Reopen Nov. 1, Eight Parks to Remain Closed

Crowders Mountain, Gorges, Grandfather Mountain and Lake Norman state parks, as well as Rendezvous Mountain, will reopen at least partially on Nov. 1.

Additional Western N.C. State Parks to Reopen Nov. 15, Three State Parks Face Long-Term Closures

Elk Knob, Lake James, New River, and Stone Mountain state parks will reopen at least partially on Nov. 15; three parks will remain closed until further notice and face long-term closures: Chimney Rock, Mount Mitchell, and South Mountains.

Joseph Hiatt Named First Superintendent of Yellow Mountain State Natural Area

Joseph Hiatt has been promoted to park superintendent of Yellow Mountain State Natural Area in Avery and Mitchell counties.

A Letter From Our Director

State Parks Director Brian Strong provides additional information on post-Helene rescue and recovery efforts and the status of western state parks.

N.C. Parks and Recreation Authority Approves $17.4 Million for State Parks Capital Improvement and Land Acquisition Projects Across North Carolina

The $17.4 million will fund nine capital improvements projects and six land acquisitions.