Topics Related to Mount Jefferson State Natural Area

North Carolina Celebrates 50th Anniversary of National Natural Landmarks

The N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation announced today that six division sites are celebrating their 50th anniversary as National Natural Landmarks (NNL) as designated by the Secretary of the U.S. Department of the Interior.

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.

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.

Tracy Minton Named Superintendent at New River State Park

Tracy Minton, the longtime superintendent at Elk Knob State Park, has been named superintendent of New River State Park in neighboring Alleghany and Ashe counties, according to the N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation.Minton succeeds Joe Shimel, who was promoted to east district superintendent last year. Ranger Scott Robinson served as acting superintendent during the interim.

N.C. Parks and Recreation Authority Approves $13.7 Million for State Parks Capital Improvement Projects Across North Carolina

The $13.7 million will fund capital improvements projects at 11 state parks.