Topics Related to South Mountains State Park

Learn about nature, complete nature-based activities, listen to live music as we celebrate our annual Nature Day and 50th Anniversary as a park.

Do you want to be a citizen scientist?  Come explore the outstanding resource water at the Jacob Fork river! Search for macroinvertebrates like caddisfly larvae, mayfly nymphs, and stonefly nymphs under the rocks. Looking for something larger, keep searching for the crayfish and hellgrammites.  Head a little farther up the food chain and the river in search of trout. The tiny critter crew are bioindicators for water quality.  After surveying the water and identifying our critters, we will calculate the biotic index value. Be prepared to get wet and wear shoes in the water.

Animals possess extraordinary abilities and play vital roles in their ecosystems. Find out how animals use their coverings to blend into their environment to hide from predators or sneak up on prey. Touch and examine a variety of animal hides and skulls. Learn some fascinating adaptations making the mammals and reptiles of South Mountains superheroes of nature.Meet at Big Bear Trailhead by the bridge.

South Mountains State Park in Burke County is partially reopening its main access at Jacob Fork on April 10.

South Mountains State Park in Burke County is partially reopening March 17. The park has been closed since last fall due to widespread damage after Hurricane Helene.

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

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

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

There are a lot of flies out there. How do you pick the right one for the fish you're targeting? We’ve got you covered! It's all about 'matching the hatch'—choosing the fly that best resembles what the fish are feeding on. Join our Entomology for Anglers course, this time at South Mountains State Park! We’ll start in the classroom with a presentation on how to identify bugs, gather specimens, and understand the lifecycle of aquatic insects—and, of course, which flies work best to mimic them.