What Is Morrow Mountain State Park?

Morrow Mountain State Park is a recreational park operated by the state of North Carolina. This park is located in the middle of the state and provides a variety of outdoor activities for adults and children. The eastern boundary of the park is marked by two rivers and a lake, which offer several water-related activities. A mountainous landscape in the interior of the park contains several miles (kilometers) of trails for hiking and horseback riding. Over 100 campsites are available for tents or recreational vehicles (RVs), while six cabins provide outdoor enthusiasts with additional amenities.

Located 6 miles (about 9.6 km) east of the city of Albemarle in central North Carolina, Morrow Mountain State Park encompasses over 4,000 acres (over 1,619 hectares) of land. The park draws its name from James McKnight Morrow, who donated much of the land to the state of North Carolina in 1935. Development of the park was done over a four-year period and the park opened to its first visitors in 1939.

Four mountain peaks of the Uwharrie range are located within the park grounds, with Morrow Mountain being the highest peak at 936 feet (about 285 meters). Hikers can pack a lunch, hike up to the picnic area at the top of Morrow Mountain, and enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding area. Winding through the park interior are over 15 miles (24 km) of hiking trails and another 16 miles (25.7 km) of bridle trails for horseback riding.

All levels of camping are available in Morrow Mountain State Park. Backpackers who are willing to pack in all their supplies can hike 2 miles (3.2 km) to a primitive campground. Families and groups can pitch a tent or camp in an RV site in one of three campground loops. Six cabins with two bedrooms, a bathroom, and cooking facilities can be reserved throughout the year. An outdoor swimming pool is available to all campers during the summer months.

The Yadkin and Pee Dee Rivers, as well as Lake Tillery on the eastern border of the park, offer campers and hikers many opportunities for boating or fishing. Canoes and rowboats can be rented daily during summer months and on weekends during the spring and fall. A boat launch ramp is also available for those who choose to trailer their own boat to the park. Fishing for perch, catfish, or various species of bass is permitted for those with a North Carolina fishing license.

For those who like to combine recreation with education, there is a nature museum in the park with exhibits that outline the history and geography of the area, as well as the native flora and fauna. An amphitheater is available for interpretative presentations by the park rangers. Morrow Mountain State Park is open for visitors year round, although some facilities and boat rentals may be limited to the summer season.