South Mountains State Park is one of North Carolina's most rugged state parks, covering an immense 19,830 acres throughout the South Mountains area of the Blue Ridge Mountains in Burke County. The park, which is accessible near the city of Connellys Springs, is best known as the site of the gorgeous High Shoals Falls, tumbling more than 80 feet over a bareface rock cliff along Jacob's Fork River. More than 40 miles of hiking trails are offered throughout the park for visitors on foot, mountain bike, or horseback, including access trails to 20 backpacking campsite areas. Equestrian camping is also offered, with more than 33 miles of bridle trails available throughout the park. Trout fishing is popular at the Jacob's Fork River, which reaches mountain stream elevations of up to 3,000 feet. Other visitor attractions include seasonal drive-to campsites and a visitor center featuring museum-quality natural and cultural history exhibits.

3001 South Mountain Park Avenue, Connelly Springs, NC 28612, Phone: 828-433-4772

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