Masks are now optional in all state parks offices and visitor centers. Those who are unvaccinated or at high-risk are strongly encouraged to wear masks. Being fully vaccinated and boosted remains the most important thing you can do to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. Visit MySpot.NC.gov today to schedule your vaccination or booster appointment.
The swim beach at Elk Shoals access is open from sunrise to sunset year-round.
News archive
Each of North Carolina’s state parks has special events during the year and news about facilities, trails, staff and park supporters. And, visitors are frequently finding new ways to explore a park’s unique cultural and natural resources. Check these pages to keep abreast of the news at your favorite parks.
The 39th Annual New River Canoe Race will take place on June 1st, 9:00 a.m. All proceeds go to support Friends of High Country State Parks’ mission to support our state parks.
The event will begin at Zaloo’s Canoes in Jefferson, N.C. and travel five miles to the Wagoner Road Access of the New River State Park. This paddle route is calm with no white water. This is a family-friendly event.
In this episode of Ask a Ranger, we will delve into all the things a North Carolina Park Ranger does. Our guest is Superintendent Joe Shimel from New River State Park in Laurel Springs, N.C.
The 36th Annual New River Canoe Race was a blast! Great weather coupled with above normal water levels created ideal conditions for a fun day of racing on New River. The race is coordinated by Friends of High Country State Parks and is a long running tradition of bringing families to paddle the river. The race includes multiple categories for men, women, mixed, and families utilizing different water craft such as canoes, kayaks and longboats. There were about 150 boat entries in the race from novice to champion levels.