Parks and Recreation

315 Mitchell Branch Road
Burnsville, NC 28714
828-682-3814 Director: Russ Fox

 

 

PARKS

Mount Mitchell State Park Mount Mitchell

Located in a 1,855-acre North Carolina State Park, Mount Mitchell (elevation 6,684 feet) is the highest point east of the Mississippi River. Located about 35 miles northeast of downtown Asheville, you reach Mount Mitchell via a very scenic drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway. From the Parkway, take NC Highway 128 all the way to the summit. Because of the altitude, many of the plants and animals are like those native to alpine environments of Canada. Mt. Mitchell is part of the Black Mountain range, formed more than a billion years ago. Six peaks in the small range are among the ten highest in the eastern United States. Enjoy views from the observation tower, tour the exhibit hall, and dine in the restaurant. Hike the highest North Carolina hiking trails. Tent camping is allowed ($12/day), but showers and hot water are not provided. Forested and forever misty, 1,855-acre Mount Mitchell State Park will provide you with some of the most tranquil moments you'll ever experience.

 

Park hours
November-February, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
March and October, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.
April and September, 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
May-August, 8 a.m.-9 p.m.
Closed Christmas Day Park office hours
8 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays
Closed Christmas Day

 

 

RECREATION

Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area

Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area offers two paved loops that are lined with 36 campsites. Split by NC 80, the loops have camping sites for tents, cars, and recreational vehicles. Each site includes a table, fire ring with cooking grill, and lantern post. No hookups are available. Drinking water and flush toilets are in each loop. Besides camping at Carolina Hemlocks Recreation Area, people can fish, swim, and tube on the South Toe River or hike adjacent trails. A large picnic pavilion can be reserved.

 

 

Park hours
Check-in and checkout time is 2 p.m.
Visitors are permitted from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. Generators may not run during this time.