Towering trees, sweeping mountains, rhythmic waves, bright blue skies, melodic bird calls and insect choruses – access to nature is an inspirational feel-good experience that benefits physical and mental health. At these senior-friendly state parks in North Carolina, people with decreased mobility and other limitations can reap all the benefits.
The Tarheel State is home to millions of acres of protected public lands that reach from the high Appalachian Mountains to coastal barrier islands in the Atlantic Ocean. The 39 designated state parks make it easy to explore amazing nature opportunities throughout the region. Some of these parks are especially friendly to seniors.
Our guide will help you find beautiful destinations, senior-friendly state parks packed with amenities and outdoor recreation options, including for people with decreased mobility or other limitations.
Senior-friendly state parks in NC, from coast to mountains
Coastal
From one of the nation’s largest bald cypress swamps to estuaries on the Atlantic Flyway and undeveloped beaches, North Carolina’s nine coastal state parks bring a wealth of natural delights.
Highlights
- Hammocks Beach State Park, Swansboro: Checkout historical exhibits in the mainland visitor center (where the auditorium offers an assistive listening system), then take a ferry ride to four-mile-long Bear Island, which lies just south of Emerald Isle. The trip carries you through wildlife-rich estuaries along the Intracoastal Waterway and Cow Channel.
- Goose Creek State Park, Washington: The 1,672-acre gem occupies the wooded banks where its namesake tidal creek meets the Pamlico River. The paved, wheelchair-accessible Goose Creek Trail winds through pristine wetlands, tidal creeks, and live oak forests draped in Spanish moss, interspersed with expansive views of the river. (See feature image, top of page.)
Triangle
The second-most populated and arguably fastest-growing region in North Carolina is also home to nine scenic state parks. Piedmont wetland preserves and multiple riverside or lakefront getaways are within a quick drive of the flagship cities of Raleigh and Durham.
Highlights
- Falls Lake State Recreation Area, Wake Forest: The forested sanctuary sits along the banks of a beautiful, 12,400-acre reservoir. Its Rolling View campground is a haven for RVers. The park boasts accessible picnic shelters and swimming as well as campsites.
Triad
This region forms the gateway to the North Carolina mountains. State parks here showcase the 72-mile-long Sauratown Mountain Range (the only mountain chain running east to west in the United States) and surrounding waterways.
Highlights
- Hanging Rock State Park, Danbury. This Civilian Conservation Corps project now offers a wide-ranging outdoor experience. Trails range from easy to strenuous. One wide asphalt path leads to an accessible fishing pier, while another leads to the Rock Garden. Overnight guests will find accommodations for wheelchairs at a campsite and two cabins.
Charlotte
The south-central region holds the state’s largest city and largest manmade lake. A quartet of state parks reach from the 51,850-acre Uwharrie National Forest and Yadkin River basin to the east, to the small but ancient South Mountains in the west.
Highlights
- Lake Norman State Park, Troutman: Find this gorgeous, 1,942-acre hub for outdoor-centered enjoyment and recreation on the picturesque north side of a 32,510-acre lake. Wide accessible paths, mostly flat and dotted with spots for relaxing, lead to the visitor center, an accessible fishing dock, shelters, and the paved Dragonfly Trail, which offers forested views of the lake and exquisite birdwatching.
Western
More than a million acres of national forest lands spread across the Blue Ridge, Great Smoky, and Brushy Mountain ranges have made the region one of America’s most renowned ecotourism destinations. A dozen state parks near charming cities like Boone, Asheville, and Brevard offer easy entry points to some of area’s most stunning natural beauty.
Sadly, many of the region’s state parks are closed indefinitely due to the effects of Hurricane Helene. Check back later to visit iconic parks like Mount Mitchell and Chimney Rock. In the meantime, visit communities such as Asheville and Bryson City to support the region’s comeback, and show your love to the state parks along the north end of the state’s mountains.
Highlights
- New River State Park. The star of the park, New River, is a National Wild and Scenic River that flows north through three states. Seven access points allow for launching kayaks and inner tubes to paddle or float along the shallow, gentle river. Several campsites are wheelchair accessible. The largest salamander in the U.S. – the hellbender – and 14 species of rare and threatened plant species inhabit the New River valley.
To learn more about North Carolina State Parks
Explore NCParks.gov to learn about all of the state’s parks and stay informed on temporary trail closures and other important notices and for details on accessibility at all North Carolina State Parks.
FEATURED IMAGE, TOP: Goose Creek State Park, Washington. Photograph courtesy of the NC Division of Parks and Recreation.
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