Topics Related to Natural Resources

Bear Aware: Staying Safe as Black Bear Activity Increases This Fall

As temperatures begin to cool across North Carolina, black bears are entering one of the busiest feeding periods of the year.

During the fall, bears are focused on consuming as many calories as possible in preparation for winter. When food is plentiful, a bear can gain 2-3 pounds per day. By the time bears begin entering their dens, many will have gained between 20-50% of their summer body weight and added several inches of fat.

Bean Shoals Access at Pilot Mountain State Park to Close for Construction

The access at Bean Shoals in Pilot Mountain State Park will be improved by a construction project that includes three new bridges and a stream restoration.

First Lady Kristin Cooper, Audubon Join NC State Parks to Celebrate New Native Plants Policy

Jockey's Ridge State Park is celebrating Native Plants Week 2023 with a visit from First Lady Kristin Cooper, Audubon North Carolina, and Department of Natural and Cultural Resources Secretary Reid Wilson.

Gorges State Park Campground to Temporarily Close

The campground at Gorges State Park will be closed through at least November 16 due to black bear activity in the area.

State Parks Prescribed Burner of the Year Awarded to Ranger Anderson, Carolina Beach State Park Staff

The annual award was presented at the North Carolina Prescribed Fire Council annual conference in Wilmington.

Gorges State Park to Host 2nd Annual Mountain Monarch Festival

The state park is in the migratory path of the butterfly's annual migration to Mexico.

Office of State Archaeology to Hold Rescheduled Town Hall Meeting in Swansboro Sept. 14

The Office of State Archaeology is holding a town hall meeting to discuss a federally funded project that will conduct survey and research at Hammocks Beach State Park.

Rare Roseate Spoonbill Spotted at Lake Norman State Park

This July, we have an exciting new visitor at Lake Norman State Park!

New Boat Cleaning Stations To Reduce Hydrilla Spread at Lake Waccamaw State Park

The NC Division of Parks and Recreation will now offer two boat cleaning stations at Lake Waccamaw State Park in Columbus County to hinder the spread of hydrilla and other highly invasive aquatic species.