Fees/Permits/Rules

There are no entrance fees to enjoy the park. In addition to park-specific rules, please read the systemwide Park Rules for all North Carolina State Parks.

Fishing

Anglers need a state fishing license and must obey the regulations of the NC Wildlife Resources Commission.

Climbing

The following state park climbing regulations apply at all times:

• All climbers must register with the park staff and must keep in their possession a valid rock climbing and rappelling permit.
• NC state parks do not install or maintain any climbing route or fixed anchors. New routes are not permitted.
• Climbers climb at their own risk and are responsible for obtaining proper equipment and training. Unroped climbing is discouraged.
• Route selection and the decision to rely on any fixed anchors are the climber's responsibility.
• Climbing activities are permitted in designated areas only and must coincide with the park's posted hours of operation.
• All accidents and injuries must be reported to park staff.

Note: All climbers and rappellers must schedule their activity in order to leave the park by the posted closing hour.

All commercial or organized/affiliated climbing groups must register with the park in advance via the Special Activity Permit. Commercial and climbing groups must pay a $35 fee for the permit.

Equestrian Trail Closure Policy

• Closing of Pilot Mountain State Park bridle trails will be considered when it rains a minimum of 0.5" in 24 hours.
• Trail conditions will be inspected by park staff on the day of the closure.
• Once the trail conditions have been confirmed to not be suitable for riding, all horse trails, including the corridor trail, grassy ridge trail, and river section bridle trails will be closed to bridle use for a minimum of 3 days.
• After 3 days with no significant additional rain or precipitation, Park staff will verify trail conditions for potential opening or continued closing.
• Trail closure status will be posted under "alerts" on the state park website and updated only when the status has changed. The phone number to call for trail closure information is 336-325-2355.
• Riding on wet trails creates low spots which hold water and widens the trail resulting in extensive damage. Keeping the trails closed when wet will allow the trails to recover and prevent further damage. A significant investment has been made in maintaining park bridle trails and these closures are made to preserve this resource for your continued enjoyment.
• Partnering with community support through trail reconstruction projects and ongoing trail maintenance, Pilot Mountain State park's long term goal is to create sustainable, all weather trails that are open year round. If you are interested in volunteering to maintain the recreational resource you enjoy, email pilot.mountain@ncparks.gov or call 336-325-2355.

Permits

Research and collection permits

A permit is required for any project involving the collection, removal or disturbance of any natural or cultural resource of any state park unit and for projects that require placing monitoring equipment in any state park unit. Learn more about research and collection permits or fill out a permit application online.

Events and special activities

Hosting some events — such as weddings, athletic contests, company parties, etc. — may require a Special Activity Permit. If you are unsure whether such a permit is necessary for your event, please contact the park office beforehand.

Permit fees are listed in the table below. Please note that additional expenses incurred by the park may be charged in addition to the permit fee. A $25 fee will be charged for all returned checks.

» Download a Special Activity Permit