Ten Reasons to visit New River State Park
written by Caleb Laney
This pristine northward-flowing river is an ideal quiet spot for camping and paddling.
1. It’s accessible from many different places!
You can access this beautiful park from a few different towns in North Carolina, such as Laurel Springs, Jefferson, and Piney Creek!
2. The park has exciting and educational programs available to attend.
If you’re looking for something to do during the summer season, New River State Park has you covered. There are fun and informative events available for you to attend as your schedule allows. To see the events and program calendar, click here!
3. Different trails with different lengths.
If you’re looking to get out in the fresh air, come and do some hiking at New River State Park! There are trails for you to take advantage of, ranging from 0.12 miles to 3.5 miles in length!
4. It’s open year-round!
If you aren’t too fond of the summer heat, that’s okay! This beautiful park can be visited whenever you like! New River State Park is open every single day of the year, with the one exception being Christmas Day.
5. There’s a gift shop for keepsakes!
If you’re looking for something to commemorate your time in this beautiful park, make sure to stop by the gift shop before you go! It has great merchandise and keepsakes available for sale.
6. It’s great for fishing!
The New River’s northern and southern forks are home to some of the absolute best smallmouth and redeye bass fishing in the entire region! Be sure follow all regulations and have a valid NC Fishing License if you are over the age of 16.
7. The New River “wildly winds through amazing scenery.”
The views at this river truly are beautiful, so much so that in 1976 it was named a National Wild and Scenic River! As stated on the park’s website, the New River “wildly winds through some of the best North Carolina mountain scenery.”
8. Many endangered plants grow in this region.
Some endangered plants that you will find growing in this area include the Rattlesnake Root, Purple Sedge, and Carolina Saxifrage.
9. The fauna is a sight to see!
There are many species of animals that call this area home. Some animals you will find in the area of New River State Park include the Black-Billed Cuckoo, White-Tailed Deer, and River Otter. You might even encounter some wild Turkeys!
10. There’s an amazing and informative visitor center!
At the New River State Park visitor center, you will find informative exhibits about the river’s Riparian Zone, fun exhibits that are hands-on, and so much more!
Visit New River State Park today!
358 New River State Park Road, Laurel Springs, NC 28644
