The One Park In North Carolina With Waterfall Swimming Holes, Caves, Camping, And Trails Truly Has It All
Most native North Carolinians have at least heard of Hanging Rock State Park – and most have had the pleasure of checking it out in person! It’s no easy feat to reach the iconic hanging rock, but the satisfaction of completing the journey is at least as amazing as the views from its high vantage point. But don’t confuse the park’s most popular spot for photos as being the only (or even the best) thing to do at this North Carolina State Park. This place really does have it!
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Sure, a 3.5-mile trek onward and upward to THE Hanging Rock is a must for anyone seasoned enough as a hiker to make the journey.
The elevation gain on the journey is 892 feet and if you make it, remember what goes up must come down. Walking sticks and plenty of water are much needed accessories to help make this one-of-a-kind trek. And plan to stay a while. The views are astounding!
Plan your visit far enough ahead to reserve a spot in the park's campground that includes 73 campsites.
Lcoated in spaces that are carved right into the flora of the forest, the sites are available year-round and stay booked. (Plan in advance.) If camping is too rustic for you, check into one of the many rustic cabins!
Not many of North Carolina's State Parks can boast of having a historic cave.
The massive cave, known as Tory's Den, is associated with much lore revolving around the American Revolution. Some versions tell of a young boy who was hanged at the cave. You'll find it at the end of a short 0.2 mile trail at Hanging Rock State Park.
For hikers, Hanging Rock State Park is paradise discovered.
The many trails in the park lead to a variety of incredible destinations, like waterfalls, caves, hidden coves, abandoned structures in the forest, and more.
At Lower Cascades Falls, a 0.7 mile hike drops you at the foot of the Lower Cascades where a shallow pool filled with cool mountain water awaits. Bring a swimsuit and a towel and stay a while.
But not everyone takes advantage of every wonderful thing the park has to offer. Are you ready to explore the entire park this year?
Hanging Rock State Park is open year-round. Hours vary by season. (See them here.) Swimming in the lake is available only during the summer months and the diving board is only open when an attendant is on duty. Canoe and kayak rentals are weekends only during fall and winter; however, during the summer months rentals are available daily. Camping and cabin fees vary by season. Learn more about the park and amenities at this link on the official website for Hanging Rock State Park.
Address: 1790 Hanging Rock Park Road, Danbury, NC, 27016
Robin Jarvis is a travel and entertainment writer and editor for OnlyInYourState.com with a bachelor's degree in Journalism. Her love for travel has taken her to many parts of the world. She spent more than two decades living on the coast in South Carolina and currently lives in the mountains of North Carolina - although she still makes it back to see family in South Carolina quite often. When she's not working, she loves to hike, kayak, and check out new adventures. Get in touch at [email protected]
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