A person with long hair and sunglasses stands on a beach, with a pier visible in the background and wind blowing.

Carolyn Harmon

Carolyn Harmon is a long-time North Carolina writer and artist who covers the Tar Heel State for Only In Your State with the reverence of someone who has spent years exploring its mountains, coastlines, and legendary folklore. From the Brown Mountain Lights to the Outer Banks, Carolyn writes about North Carolina as a place of genuine wonder — one she has personally experienced across all its contradictions and surprises.

Nature
National & State Parks

This Natural Water Park in North Carolina Is a Dream Come True

by Carolyn Harmon
on Sep 16
A sunny beach scene with people swimming and relaxing by a calm lake under a blue sky with fluffy clouds.
Nature
Hiking

The Magnificent Natural Wonder In North Carolina That’s Located Only A Third Of A Mile From The Parking Lot

by Carolyn Harmon
on Sep 4
A serene waterfall cascades over rocks into a clear pool, surrounded by lush greenery and a blue sky.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

The One North Carolina Ranch Where You Can Feed Lemurs And Capybaras

by Carolyn Harmon
on Aug 30
A group of six goats lounging on a wooden step in the sun, some resting while others sit upright.
Stays
Vacation Rentals

Sleep in an Old General Store When You Book a Stay In This Small-Town Airbnb in North Carolina

This small-town Airbnb in North Carolina is a renovated Old General Store on the French Broad River. See this place with a view in Marshall.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Jul 2
alt
Food

Word On The Street Is That Huli Sue’s Serves The Best BBQ In North Carolina

by Carolyn Harmon
on Aug 26
Outdoor dining area at Huli Sue's with blue umbrellas, yellow chairs, and tables set for guests.
Nature
National & State Parks

This Natural Water Park In North Carolina Is A Summer Dream Come True

by Carolyn Harmon
on Aug 16
A sunny beach scene with people swimming and relaxing by the water, surrounded by trees and a blue sky with clouds.
Experiences
Attractions
Markets

The Enormous Depot At Gibson Mill In North Carolina Will Bump Your Thrifting Game To 11

by Carolyn Harmon
on Aug 14
A brick building with a clock tower, featuring a Sinclair sign and a tree in front, under a clear blue sky.
Trips & Routes

11 Things That Belong On Everyone’s North Carolina Summer Bucket List

by Carolyn Harmon
on Aug 12
A serene beach at sunset, with gentle waves lapping at the shore and colorful clouds in the sky.
Trips & Routes

Discover 10 Of North Carolina’s Most Iconic Views On This Epic 2-Hour Road Trip

by Carolyn Harmon
on Aug 9
Map highlighting the Iconic Views Road Trip in North Carolina, featuring key locations and routes.
Food

A Pure Oil Station Is Now North Carolina’s Best New Place To Find A Duck Confit Grilled Cheese

by Carolyn Harmon
on Aug 7
A charming white building with a dark roof, decorated for the holidays, illuminated by a vintage street lamp at dusk.
Food

The Waterfront Steakhouse In North Carolina That’s Perfect For A Quiet Evening Out

by Carolyn Harmon
on Aug 5
A waterfront restaurant with a blue roof, illuminated at dusk, surrounded by palm trees and a calm waterway.
Food

This Massive Antique Mall In North Carolina Has Its Very Own Restaurants And Beer Garden

by Carolyn Harmon
on Aug 2
Crowd gathered outside an antique mall with vintage cars parked in front and a mural on the building.
Experiences
Attractions

The Bullwhip Ride Just Opened In North Carolina And It’s The Perfect Summer Adventure

by Carolyn Harmon
on Jul 31
A colorful amusement ride called "The Bullywhip" in a park, with trees and a hillside in the background.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

With An All Children’s Playground And A Splash Pad, This Family-Friendly Park In North Carolina Is The Best Summer Day Trip

by Carolyn Harmon
on Jul 29
A vibrant playground with children playing, slides, climbing structures, and families enjoying the outdoor space.
Nature
Parks & Gardens

The De Hart Botanical Gardens Has a Hidden Trail in North Carolina Worthy of a Day Hike

We think this peaceful space is certainly worth penciling in.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Aug 3
alt
Food

The Whole Family Could Spend An Entire Day Having A Blast At The Lost Wombat In North Carolina

by Carolyn Harmon
on Jul 24
A street view of a building decorated with patriotic bunting, featuring outdoor seating and a wooden fence.
Stays
Vacation Rentals

Discover 5 Unique and Exceptional Airbnbs Across North Carolina

Which one will you choose?

by Carolyn Harmon
on Jan 31
triangular wooden cabin-like structure
Stays
Vacation Rentals

6 Last-Minute Getaways In North Carolina For A Fun End-Of-Summer Retreat

by Carolyn Harmon
on Jul 19
Aerial view of a wooden cabin nestled among lush green trees in a dense forest.
Trips & Routes
Small Towns

Harpers Ferry Is the Best Small-Town Getaway for History Lovers

If you’re searching for a picture-perfect weekend getaway, here are the best things to do in historic Harpers Ferry, West Virginia.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Jul 7
A scenic view of a green hillside with rocky cliffs, trees, and a parking area below under a clear blue sky.
Food

The Outdoor Cafe in North Carolina That Is the Prettiest Place to Enjoy a Warm Afternoon

Visit Burnsville to enjoy this outdoor cafe in North Carolina. Eat delicious cuisine al fresco at Snap Dragon, a nautically themed gastropub.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Aug 7
alt