North Carolina

North Carolina is a diverse state that offers visitors a wide range of experiences. The state is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the Blue Ridge Mountains, pristine beaches, and rolling hills. Visitors can explore charming small towns and cities, such as Asheville or Charlotte, which offer a mix of history, culture, and entertainment. The state is also home to a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, fishing, and water sports. Visitors can explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, or visit the Outer Banks, a string of barrier islands along the Atlantic coast. The state is also known for its delicious food, including Carolina-style barbecue and fresh seafood.

NATIONAL FOREST

North Carolina is home to four national forests that offer visitors a wide range of outdoor experiences. The forests are characterized by lush vegetation, cascading waterfalls, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can explore miles of hiking trails that wind through dense forests of hardwood trees, rhododendron thickets, and mountain laurel. The forests are home to a variety of wildlife species, including black bear, white-tailed deer, and wild turkey. Camping is a popular activity in the national forests, with several campgrounds located throughout the area. Visitors can also enjoy fishing in the many streams and rivers in the forest, which are stocked with trout and other game fish. The national forests in North Carolina also offer opportunities for hunting, mountain biking, and horseback riding.

Croatan National Forest

The Croatan National Forest is a 160,000-acre forest located in eastern North Carolina. The forest is characterized by its dense pine forests, saltwater estuaries, and marshes. Visitors can explore miles of hiking trails that wind through the forest, providing ample opportunities for wildlife viewing and birdwatching. The forest is home to a variety of wildlife species, including white-tailed deer, black bear, and red wolves. Camping is also popular in the Croatan National Forest, with several campgrounds located throughout the area. Visitors can also enjoy fishing and water sports in the many streams and rivers in the forest, or take a kayak or canoe trip through the saltwater estuaries. The forest is also home to several historic sites, including the site of an old Civil War battle and a historic plantation. Check out more information here!  https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/nfsnc/recarea/?recid=48466


Croatan Ranger District

141 E. Fisher Avenue New Bern, NC 28560

(252) 638-5628

Vehicle Use Map


Nantahala National Forest

The Nantahala National Forest is a 531,000-acre forest located in western North Carolina. The forest is characterized by its rugged terrain, deep gorges, and stunning waterfalls. Visitors can explore over 600 miles of hiking trails that wind through dense forests of hardwood trees, providing ample opportunities for wildlife viewing and birdwatching. The forest is home to a variety of wildlife species, including black bear, white-tailed deer, and wild turkey. Camping is also popular in the Nantahala National Forest, with several campgrounds located throughout the area. Visitors can also enjoy fishing and water sports in the many streams and rivers in the forest, including the Nantahala River, which is known for its world-class whitewater rafting. The forest is also home to several scenic drives, including the famous Blue Ridge Parkway, which winds through the heart of the forest. Check out more information here!   https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/nfsnc/recarea/?recid=48634


Cheoah Ranger District

1070 Massey Branch Road Robbinsville, NC 28771

(828) 479-6431

Vehicle Use Map


Nantahala Ranger District

90 Sloan Road Franklin, NC 28734

(828) 524-6441

Vehicle Use Map


Tusquitee Ranger District

123 Woodland Drive Murphy, NC 28906

(828) 837-5152

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Pisgah National Forest

The Pisgah National Forest is a 512,758-acre forest located in western North Carolina. The forest is characterized by its rugged terrain, high peaks, and cascading waterfalls. Visitors can explore over 1,600 miles of hiking trails that wind through dense forests of hardwood trees, providing ample opportunities for wildlife viewing and birdwatching. The forest is home to a variety of wildlife species, including black bear, white-tailed deer, and wild turkey. Camping is also popular in the Pisgah National Forest, with several campgrounds located throughout the area. Visitors can also enjoy fishing and water sports in the many streams and rivers in the forest, including the Davidson River, which is known for its excellent fly fishing. The forest is also home to several scenic drives, including the Blue Ridge Parkway, which winds through the heart of the forest and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Check out more information here!   https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/nfsnc/recarea/?recid=48114


Appalachian Ranger District

632 Manor Road Mars Hill, NC 28754

(828) 689-9694

Vehicle Use Map


Grandfather Ranger Station

109 Lawing Drive Nebo, NC 28761

(828) 652-2144

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Pisgah Ranger Station

1600 Pisgah Highway Pisgah Forest, NC 28768

(828) 877-3265

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Uwharrie National Forest

The Uwharrie National Forest is a 50,645-acre forest located in central North Carolina. The forest is characterized by its rolling hills, mixed hardwood forests, and pristine lakes. Visitors can explore over 40 miles of hiking trails that wind through the forest, providing ample opportunities for wildlife viewing and birdwatching. The forest is home to a variety of wildlife species, including white-tailed deer, black bear, and wild turkey. Camping is also popular in the Uwharrie National Forest, with several campgrounds located throughout the area. Visitors can also enjoy fishing and water sports in the many lakes and ponds in the forest, including the popular Badin Lake. The forest is also home to several historic sites, including the site of an old gold mine and a historic grist mill. Check out more information here!   https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/nfsnc/recarea/?recid=48934


Uwharrie Ranger Station

789 Biscoe Rd. Troy, NC 27371

(910) 576-6391

Vehicle Use Map


BLM

There is limited BLM (Bureau of Land Management) land in North Carolina, with only a few small parcels of land scattered throughout the state. These lands are typically managed for multiple uses, including recreation, wildlife habitat, grazing, and timber production. Visitors to BLM land in North Carolina can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, hunting, fishing, and camping. Some BLM lands in North Carolina are also home to historic sites and cultural resources, such as Native American archaeological sites.

Southeastern States District

The Southeastern States District is a region of the United States that is known for its rich culture, warm climate, and natural beauty. From the rolling hills of the Appalachians to the balmy beaches of the Gulf Coast, the Southeastern States offer something for everyone. The region is home to a variety of regional cuisines and is a great place for outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and water sports. It’s also known for its vibrant music scene and its many festivals, from the country music festival in Tennessee to the jazz festival in New Orleans. With its diverse population and its many attractions, the Southeastern States District is a wonderful place to explore.  You can check out more information here!     https://www.blm.gov/office/southeastern-states


Southeastern States District Office

273 Market Street, Flowood, MS 39232

(601)919-4650


GRASSLANDS

There aren’t any grasslands in North Carolina!

tips and tricks

North Carolina is located in the southeastern region of the United States and is bordered by Virginia to the north, South Carolina to the south, Tennessee to the west, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east.

North Carolina has several natural attractions, including the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Outer Banks. Be sure to explore these areas and enjoy the beauty of the state’s landscapes.

If you’re interested in history, North Carolina has several museums and historic sites, such as the Wright Brothers National Memorial and the Biltmore Estate.

do’s and dont’s

Plan ahead for camping and overnight parking. North Carolina has several state parks and private campgrounds that offer amenities like showers and electricity.

Prepare for changes in weather conditions. North Carolina can experience hurricanes, thunderstorms, and even snow in some areas.

Don’t litter or leave behind trash when camping or hiking. Practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of North Carolina’s landscapes.