Trails Status
Mostly Open
Headquarters, Shinny, and Possum trails at Jacob Fork access remain closed until further notice. Beginning on Monday, July 21, High Shoals Falls Loop and Big Bear trails are closed for debris removal. All other trails at both accesses are open to hikers.
Mostly Closed
Clear Creek Trail at Clear Creek access in Morganton is open for equestrian use. There is no trail access for mountain biking or equestrian at Jacob Fork access at this time.
About the Park
Located in Burke County 55 miles east of Asheville, South Mountains State Park is situated at the crossroads of the Appalachian Mountains and the Foothills to provide the ultimate backcountry experience. The park boasts elevations up to 3,000 feet, an 80-foot waterfall, and nearly 50 miles of trail for hikers, horseback riders, and mountain bikers. Water recreation is offered via the Jacob Fork River, which hosts designated trout waters, or to the far west at the separate Clear Creek access that features the namesake lake.
Camping
- Tent sites (including backpacking sites)
- Trailer and RV sites (some with electric hookups)
- Equestrian campsites
- Showers
- Firewood
Camping facilities are located at the Jacob Fork access only. There are currently no camping facilities at Clear Creek access.
Activities at Jacob Fork
- Hiking (47 miles)
- Biking (17 miles)
- Horseback riding (35 miles)
- Fishing
- Picnicking
Activities at Clear Creek
- Hiking (3.5 miles)
- Horseback riding (2 miles)
- Paddling
- Fishing
Amenities
- Amphitheater
- Auditorium and classroom
- Picnic shelter
- Visitor center and exhibits
- Bathhouse
- Horse trailer parking (at Jacob Fork and Clear Creek)
The amenities listed, except horse trailer parking, are available only at Jacob Fork access. Clear Creek has horse trailer parking and no other amenities at this time.
Plan Your Visit
Address
3001 South Mountain Park Ave., Connelly Springs, NC 28612
GPS: 35.5963, -81.6000
Current Weather
Park Hours
|
Month |
Hours |
|---|---|
| January | 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. |
| February | 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. |
| March | 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. |
| April | 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. |
| May | 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. |
| June | 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. |
| July | 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. |
| August | 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. |
| September | 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. |
| October | 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. |
| November | 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. |
| December | 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. |
Open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.