The Division of Parks and Recreation is assisting with statewide emergency and rescue efforts in western North Carolina in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. As a result, we are scaling back operations across the state to allow staff to continue to assist with critical deployments.
Park Closures
All state parks west of I-77 are closed through at least Oct. 31, 2024. These are:
- Chimney Rock State Park
- Crowders Mountain State Park
- Elk Knob State Park
- Gorges State Park
- Grandfather Mountain State Park
- Lake James State Park
- Lake Norman State Park
- Mount Jefferson State Natural Area
- Mount Mitchell State Park
- New River State Park
- Rendezvous Mountain
- South Mountains State Park
- Stone Mountain State Park
In addition, we continue to discourage unnecessary travel in and to western North Carolina. Limiting travel helps prioritize sending lifesaving resources and making vital infrastructure repairs in the communities hit hardest by Helene. Many roads continue to be closed due to unsafe conditions.
Reservations
All reservations impacted by the park closures are receiving a full refund automatically. This includes cabins, campsites, picnic shelters, and community buildings. We appreciate your understanding as we help our neighbors and communities who are grieving and who have lost so much because of the storm.
Events and Programs Cancellations
Most events and programs at all state parks have been cancelled through Oct. 31, 2024. Again, we want to focus our resources towards immediate needs. The following events will occur as scheduled:
- Dismal Day at Dismal Swamp State Park, Oct. 12
- Fear at the Fort at Fort Macon State Park, Oct. 18-19 and 25-26
- Schools in Parks training at Carolina Beach State Park, Oct. 26
Field trips have also been cancelled.
Helpful Links
Closures for Other Agencies
- NC Wildlife Resources Commission (boating and fishing accesses, game lands)
- NC Forest Service
- National Park Service – Blue Ridge Parkway
- National Park Service – Great Smoky Mountains National Park
- U.S. Department of Agriculture – National Forests