Stokes County, NC
Waterfalls, sand beneath your feet, paddle boarding on the open water, canoeing, kayaking, and swimming, are often considered for a summertime vacation to a coastal community, but have you experienced all of these in the shadow of a mountain before? You can do just that in Stokes County, North Carolina at Hanging Rock State Park one of the top state parks able to check off each park amenity available to any park in the system. This park is uniquely situated along a mountain range named after the Saura Native American tribe which lived in the county before European settlement. The Sauratown Mountains are an isolated remnant of the Blue Ridge Mountains far to the west.
Take a dive off the diving platform at the lake, or learn more about flora and fauna available to view along trails in the park from ranger lead programs. Hanging Rock is home to over 20 miles of hiking trails and another 20 of mountain biking trails, rock climbing, camping, horseback riding and much more.
Outside the park visitors planning a weekend or week-long visit can enjoy a treetop canopy tour on Carolina Ziplines, exciting news for 2022 including new lines, platforms, and tour experiences. Strawberries are also in bloom and are the perfect complement to your campfire cookout, make time to visit one or all of the local berry farms including Mabe’s Berry Farm, Robertson Family Farms, or Manuel Farms. Agriculture has long been a major industry in Stokes County and small farms are continuing to grow and offer farm tours or lessons on homesteading. While in town venture out and find a farmers market or local Agritourism event or tour at one of many farms.
Kick off the River Tubing season on the Dan this Memorial Day weekend! Book your outing with a local river outfitters including General Dan Tubing Co. or Hillside Tubing in Danbury. Depending on the level of the river, float times average around three hours.
After exiting the river at Moratock Park continue down Sheppard Mill Road and arrive at a historic local watering hole, Priddy’s General Store, for a step back in time. Take in a little bluegrass pickin’ and flat footin’ at the Memorial Day Pickin’ at Priddy’s on May 28th, this event will feature well-known local bluegrass talent and the opportunity to learn or show off your dancin’ skills. Pop the cap of a glass soda pop, set up your chair or picnic blanket and enjoy.
