News Release  » 

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Beverly Eaves Perdue, Governor

Dee Freeman, Secretary

N.C. Department of Environment and Natural Resources

Release: Immediate		Contact: Charlie Peek
Date: 2012-11-21		Phone: (919) 218-4622

Add a healthful tradition to the Thanksgiving holiday at state parks

RALEIGH -- North Carolina state parks will be open Thanksgiving Day and throughout the weekend, giving visitors an opportunity to add a healthful tradition to the holiday, according to the N.C Division of Parks and Recreation.

Make time for a hike, paddle or bike ride, or attend one of many free, ranger-led interpretive programs.

Forecasters predict fair weekend weather throughout the state, and campgrounds, trails and boat ramps are ready for outdoor activities. At Haw River State Park, a “Walk It Off!” event will cater to hikers all day on Thanksgiving Day, and a “Burn-Off-The-Turkey Hike” is scheduled for 9 a.m. Saturday at Dismal Swamp State Park. Lake Waccamaw State Park plans a “Talk-N Turkey” program about wild turkeys at 2 p.m. Friday. Cliffs of the Neuse State Park will hold a class on outdoor cooking at 2 p.m. Saturday. Lake James State Park will offer tips on landscaping to attract wildlife at 3 p.m. Sunday.

Nature hikes guided by rangers are a staple at all state parks, and visitors can warm up in exhibit halls that offer museum-quality displays on natural and cultural history. Times for park programs are subject to change and details can be found in the “Education” section at www.ncparks.gov.

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