Nature

Wildlife & Farms

Nature
Wildlife & Farms

Get In the Summer Spirit With Berry Picking at Eno River Farm in North Carolina

Strawberries, blueberries and blackberries taste better when you pick them yourself—and Eno River Farm is our favorite central North Carolina spot to do just that.

by Lauren Wingenroth
on May 13
A hand holds up a large pink basket, full of freshly picked strawberries. Strawberries fields are visible in the background.
Nature

Serving Up Soft Serve: This Family-Owned Farm in NC Won Me Over

by Lauren Wingenroth
on May 5
The photographer's hand holds a waffle cone of soft serve. In the background, there's a farmstand with berries for sale.
Nature

The Best Apple Cider Donuts in North Carolina Comes From This Orchard

by Chris Dodge
on Oct 11
Rows of brightly orange pumpkins with a barn and classic silo in the background.
Nature

I Devoured the Fried Apple Pie at Justus Orchard in North Carolina

by Kelly Carroll
on Sep 11
A modern building with a wooden deck, surrounded by trees, featuring a sign that reads "Just Orchard."
Nature

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.

Latest Wildlife & Farms

Nature
Wildlife & Farms

Pick Your Way Through Haywood County in North Carolina At These Smoky Mountain Pick-Your-Own Farms And Produce Markets

by Carolyn Harmon
on Jun 17
A scenic landscape featuring a field of wildflowers, mountains in the background, and a clear blue sky with clouds.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

The Incredible Farm in North Carolina Where You Can Pick Buckets of Berries

Starting in early July, this breathtaking farm invites visitors from near and far to enjoy a wholesome day of picking fresh blueberries.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Apr 26
bountiful blueberry plant against orchard background and blue sky overhead
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

Pregnant Stingray In North Carolina Mountain Aquarium Despite Lack of Male Partner

by Carolyn Harmon
on Mar 8
A close-up of a yellow stingray swimming gracefully in an aquarium, with colorful coral and fish in the background.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

This Unique Ellaberry Llama Farm In North Carolina Is Perfect For A Day Trip Any Time Of Year

by Carolyn Harmon
on Feb 21
A line of llamas standing in a pen with a clear blue sky and hills in the background.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

Thousands of “Ancient-Looking” Birds Have Been Spotted On North Carolina’s Outer Banks

by Carolyn Harmon
on Dec 7
A cormorant takes off from the water, wings spread wide, creating splashes as it flies over the calm surface.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

The Unique Carolina Horse Park In Raeford Is The Only One Of Its Kind In North Carolina

by Carolyn Harmon
on Dec 5
A wooden observation tower at sunset, surrounded by green fields and trees.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

Discovery Of Lethal Invasive Snails In North Carolina Raises Concerns

by Carolyn Harmon
on Oct 19
Close-up of a freshwater snail showing its shell and extended tentacles.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

Here Are The 10 Absolute Best Pumpkin Patches In North Carolina To Enjoy In 2024

by Carolyn Harmon
on Aug 2
A variety of pumpkins in different colors and sizes displayed at a pumpkin patch.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

Why You Need To Report Sightings Of This Land Crab In North Carolina If You Spot One

by Carolyn Harmon
on Sep 27
A close-up of a blue crab on sandy ground, showcasing its claws and distinctive shell patterns.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

One Of The Largest Pumpkin Patches In North Carolina Is A Must-Visit Day Trip This Fall

by Carolyn Harmon
on Sep 19
A vibrant pumpkin patch with hay bales and potted plants under a clear blue sky.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

How Did Tropical Pink Flamingos End Up In North Carolina’s Outer Banks?

Pink flamingos have been spotted in North Carolina’s Outer Banks, likely brought by Hurricane Idalia.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Sep 13
Two pink flamingos preen their feathers by a tranquil green pond.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

7 Underrated Places In North Carolina That Even Natives Have Never Heard Of

Discover underrated attractions in North Carolina, including museums, farms, historic sites, and recreational areas.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Aug 31
Aerial view of a large industrial complex surrounded by greenery and a river, with roads and pathways visible.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

Animal Ed.ventures Sanctuary Is A Magical Place In North Carolina That You Thought Only Existed In Your Dreams

Animal Ed.ventures Sanctuary in Coats, North Carolina, offers a unique experience to connect with exotic and rescued animals in a peaceful, educational setting.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Jul 12
A sleeping fox curled up on a wooden surface, with its eyes closed and ears perked up.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

Adventure Awaits At This Drive-Thru Safari Park In North Carolina

Aloha Safari Park in Cameron, North Carolina offers a drive-thru and walk-around experience with over 300 exotic animals, including zebras, camels, and tigers.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Jun 29
A close-up of a giraffe's head against a clear blue sky, with trees in the background.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

Here Are The Most Dangerous Animals Roaming The Lands Of North Carolina

North Carolina is home to a variety of dangerous animals, including venomous snakes, aggressive alligators, and deadly spiders.

by Only In Your State Staff
on Jul 1
A large alligator resting on the bank of a muddy waterway, with its mouth open and teeth visible.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

9 of the World’s Most Toxic Mushrooms Can Be Found in North Carolina Each Year

North Carolina is home to several highly poisonous mushrooms, some of which have psychoactive effects and can be deadly if consumed.

by Robin Jarvis
on Aug 8
alt
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

Be On The Lookout, A New Type Of Tick Has Been Spotted In North Carolina

The Asian longhorned tick, first discovered in North Carolina in 2017, is spreading across the U.S. but is unlikely to contribute to Lyme disease.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Mar 10
A cluster of pink and white flowers in the foreground, with bright yellow flowers and green foliage in the background.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

Thousands Of Singing Spring Peepers Are A Welcome Sound Of A New Season Here In North Carolina

Spring Peepers, a tiny frog species, signal the start of spring in North Carolina with their distinctive chirping.

by Robin Jarvis
on Feb 24
A small frog perched on the tip of a person's finger, showcasing its textured skin and delicate features.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

Keep Your Eyes Peeled, Thousands of Hummingbirds Are Headed Right for North Carolina During Their Migration This Spring

When will hummingbirds arrive in North Carolina? Put out your hummingbird feeders to see them in the spring!

by Robin Jarvis
on Mar 10
A Ruby-throated hummingbird is hovering near vibrant purple flowers against a clear blue sky in North Carolina.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

The Little-Known Park In North Carolina That Transforms Into An Ice Palace In The Winter

Green River Game Land in North Carolina offers diverse outdoor activities and transforms into a winter wonderland with scenic trails and ice formations.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Feb 8
A frozen waterfall cascading over rocky ledges, surrounded by trees in a serene natural setting.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

A Parasitic Bug Has Been Spotted Throughout North Carolina And Its Bite Can Be Deadly

Kissing bugs in North Carolina carry a parasite that causes Chagas disease, which can be deadly.

by Robin Jarvis
on Dec 27
A black and orange insect clings to the textured surface of a tree trunk.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

The One-Of-A-Kind Vollmer Farm In North Carolina Serves Up Fresh Homemade Ice Cream To Die For

Visit Vollmer Farm for fresh homemade ice cream, farm activities, and unique gifts.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Dec 8
A plate of waffles topped with ice cream and blueberries, set on a green checkered tablecloth.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

Take A Sleigh Ride Through An Idyllic Christmas Tree Farm At Fir Heaven Sake Christmas Tree Farm In North Carolina

Fir Heaven Sake Christmas Tree Farm in Topton, North Carolina, offers a nostalgic and festive experience with tree cutting, sleigh rides, and a charming gift shop.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Dec 8
A boy sits on a tractor pulling a red sleigh through a Christmas tree farm. Trees are visible in the background.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

Not Everyone Knows Big Daddy’s Farm In North Carolina Puts On A Dazzling Holiday Light Display

Big Daddy’s Farm in Middlesex, North Carolina, hosts an annual Christmas Lights on the Farm event featuring a holiday light display, hayrides, Santa, and more.

by Carolyn Harmon
on Nov 10
A cozy cabin decorated with festive lights and holiday decorations, surrounded by autumn leaves in a wooded area.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

There’s A Farm Right Near A Zoo In North Carolina, Making For A Fun-Filled Family Outing

Discover a two-part family-friendly adventure in North Carolina featuring Patterson Farm and Lazy 5 Ranch.

by Melissa Mahoney
on Sep 23
A group of people on a wagon pulled by horses interacts with a giraffe at a wildlife park.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

Get Lost In These 6 Awesome Corn Mazes Around Charlotte This Fall

Discover the best corn mazes near Charlotte for family-friendly fall activities.

by Carolyn Mulvihill
on Aug 10
Aerial view of a large green maze with paths, surrounded by trees, and a group of people in red shirts at the bottom.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

Finish A Corn Maze Adventure By Visiting The 1950s Soda Shop At North Carolina’s Aw Shucks Farms

Aw Shucks Farms offers a variety of family-friendly fall activities, including a corn maze, hayrides, and an animal barn.

by Robin Jarvis
on Aug 29
A red train car converted into a dining space, surrounded by picnic tables and a rustic outdoor setting at dusk.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

These 7 Charming Pumpkin Patches in North Carolina Are Picture Perfect for a Fall Day

Discover the best pumpkin patches in North Carolina offering hayrides, corn mazes, and more.

by Only In Your State Staff
on Sep 23
A scarecrow sits among several pumpkins in a fall harvest display.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

3 North Carolina Nature Centers That Make Excellent Family Day Trip Destinations

North Carolina nature centers offer educational and adventurous activities for families, featuring diverse landscapes and wildlife.

by Celina Colby
on Jun 8
A stone and wood building with a sloped roof, surrounded by trees, featuring a sign for Highlands Nature Center.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

The Largest Zoo In The U.S. Is In North Carolina, And It’s Magical

North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro is the largest natural habitat zoo in the world, offering a variety of animal exhibits and family-friendly activities.

by Robin Jarvis
on Jun 3
Three elephants stand near a pond, surrounded by trees and grass under a partly cloudy sky.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

A Colorful U-Pick Flower Farm, Flying Cloud Farm In North Carolina Is Like Something From A Dream

Flying Cloud Farm in Fairview, North Carolina, offers a delightful u-pick flower experience from July to October.

by Robin Jarvis
on May 6
A butterfly rests on vibrant pink and purple flowers in a lush garden filled with greenery.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

Be On The Lookout For A New Invasive Species Of Spider In North Carolina This Year

The invasive Joro Spider from Japan is spreading into North Carolina and may help control the stink bug population.

by Robin Jarvis
on Mar 27
A close-up of a large, colorful spider with yellow and black markings on its web, set against a blurred green background.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

Millions of Monarch Butterflies Are Headed Straight for North Carolina This Spring

Monarch butterflies migrate through North Carolina from May to August, offering a spectacular natural display.

by Robin Jarvis
on Feb 8
alt
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

Most People Don’t Know This North Carolina Metal Zoo Even Exists

Dickinson Avenue in Greenville, North Carolina, features a unique metal zoo created by local artist Jonathan Stivers Bowling.

by Robin Jarvis
on Jan 20
A grassy area with metal horse sculptures under a blue sky, surrounded by trees and a sidewalk.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

Discover Delish Fresh Produce And Enormous Dream Whips At Darnell Farms On The Tuckasegee River In North Carolina

Darnell Farms in Bryson City, North Carolina, offers fresh produce, scenic river views, and family-friendly activities.

by Robin Jarvis
on Nov 6
Aerial view of a pumpkin patch with tables, tents, and a red barn surrounded by trees and a parking area.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

More And More Nine-Banded Armadillos Are Being Spotted In North Carolina And Here’s What You Should Know

Armadillos are increasingly appearing in North Carolina, posing potential risks due to their burrowing habits and ability to carry diseases.

by Robin Jarvis
on Sep 11
An armadillo walking on grassy terrain under a cloudy sky.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

The Kiddos Will Go Wild Over The Upcoming Drive Thru Dinosaur Hunt At Upton Farms In North Carolina

Upton Family Farm in Vale, North Carolina, hosts a weekend event featuring a drive-through dinosaur hunt and various family-friendly activities.

by Robin Jarvis
on Jul 21
Close-up of a realistic dinosaur head with sharp teeth and detailed scales, set against a blurred background.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

The Unique, Out-Of-The-Way Nature Reserve In North Carolina That’s Always Worth A Visit

Currituck Banks Reserve in North Carolina offers a serene and less crowded hiking experience with beautiful natural scenery and wildlife.

by Clarisa Akred
on Jul 16
A wooden boardwalk leads to a calm waterway surrounded by tall grasses under a blue sky with fluffy clouds.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

The Quarry At Carrigan Farms In North Carolina Is Spring-Fed Fun For The Whole Family

Visit the spring-fed swimming hole at The Quarry at Carrigan Farms in North Carolina for an epic summer experience with rope swings, cliff jumps, and diving decks.

by Robin Jarvis
on Jun 29
A serene lake surrounded by lush green trees, with people swimming and a clear blue sky above.
Nature
Wildlife & Farms

Visit Aloha Safari Zoo, An Exotic Animal Sanctuary Right Here In North Carolina

Aloha Safari Zoo in North Carolina rehabilitates mistreated and injured animals and is open for visitors.

by Only In Your State Staff
on Jun 14
alt