Topics Related to Mountain Region

Our Scaly Friends

Can you smell with your tongue? What about hearing with your jaw or seeing heat? Most humans can't, without superpowers, but slithery and scaled snakes possess these amazing abilities and more! Snakes exhibit a remarkable diversity of species, colors, and habitats.

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.

N.C. State Parks Partners with Waypoint Adventure to Provide Adaptive Recreation Programs at Select Parks

The North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation announced a new partnership with Waypoint Adventure, based in Black Mountain, N.C., to provide adaptive recreation programs for visitors with disabilities.

State Parks Closures Due to Hurricane Helene, Including Monarch Festival Cancellation

Due to expected impacts of Hurricane Helene, Gorges State Park and Mount Mitchell State Park will be closed Thursday and Friday, Sept. 26-27. The Mountain Monarch Festival at Gorges, scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 28, has been cancelled.

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.

State Parks Projects Awarded Over $7.6 Million from Parks and Recreation Trust Fund

The N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation announced that the Parks and Recreation Authority has awarded over $7.6 million from the Parks and Recreation Trust Fund for state parks projects for fiscal year 2024-25.

Bean Shoals Access at Pilot Mountain State Park Now Open

Pilot Mountain State Park’s Bean Shoals Access, located along the north side of the Yadkin River, has reopened following a construction project in 2024.

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.

Public Notice: State Parks and Innovative Readiness Training Program

The North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation is providing an opportunity for public comment on a collaboration with the U.S. Department of Defense.