You May Be Surprised To Learn the Two Most Visited National Parks in the U.S. Are Both in North Carolina

From the mountains to the sea, we really do have it all here in North Carolina, including the two most visited National Parks in America! Some states aren't fortunate enough to have even one National Park. When it comes to scenic and spectacular outdoor recreation, the Tar Heel State is a popular place for natives and tourists alike. If you're looking for an amazing national park to visit in North Carolina, you can't go wrong with either the Blue Ridge Parkway or the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Year after year, Great Smoky Mountains National Park takes the cake as the country's most visited national Park. A lot of that has to do with its location. Centrally located in the southeast, it's smack dab in the middle of vital transit networks. As a result, many people simply drive through the free-to-enter national park on their way to somewhere else. That said, Great Smoky Mountains National Park has seemingly endless things to offer.

For example, in 2024, the national park saw more than 12 million visitors. Visitors will find 10 campgrounds, 12 picnic areas, and more than 100 backcountry camping sites. Furthermore, visitors can explore 848 miles of hiking trails (some of which are on the famed Appalachian Trail!), enjoy 70 scenic overlooks, and scurry through six tunnels. Remember, this park shares its home between both North Carolina and Tennessee.

Blue Ridge Parkway

Secondly, the Blue Ridge Parkway is part of the National Park Service. This 469-mile parkway takes visitors across Appalachia Highlands. The Parkway is home to eight developed campgrounds, as well as backcountry camping in Rock Castle Gorge near Rocky Knob, Basin Cove near Doughton Park, and Johns River Road. In 2023, the Blue Ride Parkway saw more than 16.7 million visitors. These travelers enjoyed exploring the 369 miles of hiking trails, driving through tunnels, enjoying a meal at one of the 13 picnic areas along the parkway, and catching live music at the Blue Ridge Music Center at Milepost 213.

What To Know Before Visiting North Carolina’s National Parks

When planning a trip to North Carolina's national parks and sites, its importan to note that you're in for a lot of driving. Whether it's the parks mentioned above, or Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Cape Lookout National Seashore, or Guilford Courthouse National Military Park, things are spread out in this state. Plus, the weather can change pretty quickly in North Carolina. You've got a strong mix of coastal and mountain weather. Be prepared! Further, North Carolina is home to some serious wildlife. You'll find furry friends like black bears and elk. While cute, never approach or feed them, and keep a safe distance.

When it comes to a fantastic national park to visit in North Carolina, both the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park take the cake. How fortunate are we to have the two most popular National Park locations right here at home? When was the last time you reconnected with either one? Let's make this the year to spend more time exploring both!