New River State Park protects one of the United States' oldest rivers, widely believed to be one of the oldest rivers in the world at a maximum age of up to 360 million years old. The 2,911-acre park, which is located near the city of Jefferson in Ashe County, is anchored around the beautiful New River, which has been protected as a National Wild and Scenic River since 1976. Park visitors can explore the area's gorgeous mountain scenery and enjoy seasonal activities such as canoeing, paddling, and fishing for smallmouth and redeye bass, rainbow and brown trout, and muskellunge. Stunning second-growth forest areas showcase Carolina hemlock and pines, creating a habitat for more than a dozen endangered plant species. Hiking trails are also offered, along with primitive canoe-in campsites, day-use picnic sites, and a visitor center showcasing natural and cultural history exhibits.
358 New River State Park Road, Laurel Springs, NC 28644, Phone: 336-982-2587
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