Camping at Stone Mountain State Park

General Overview

Stone Mountain State Park is a 14,351-acre state park located in North Carolina, well-known for its 600-foot granite dome, scenic beauty, and activities like hiking, fishing, and rock climbing. It offers a glimpse into the region's cultural and natural history with its mountain landscapes and preserved homesteads.

Location and Hours

Stone Mountain State Park is situated in the northwest corner of North Carolina in Wilkes and Alleghany counties. The park is typically open year-round, but hours may vary by season. Visitors are advised to check the North Carolina State Parks website or contact the park office directly for current hours of operation.

Camping Facilities

Campsites:

• The park offers a range of campsites, including tent, trailer, and RV sites, with a limited number of sites providing electric and water hookups.
• Each campsite usually has a picnic table, grill, and tent pad. Modern restrooms with hot showers and drinking water are located nearby.

Primitive Camping:

• For those seeking a more remote experience, primitive backpacking sites with pit toilets are available. These require hiking several miles to reach and offer a true back-to-nature experience.

Group Camping:

• Group campsites are available for organized groups. These larger sites come with amenities to accommodate more people.

Camping Reservations

• Campsites can be reserved in advance, which is strongly recommended, especially during peak seasons or weekends.
• Reservations can be made online through the North Carolina State Parks reservation system or by calling the reservation number.

Activities

• Hiking: The park features more than 18 miles of trails ranging from easy to strenuous, including the popular Stone Mountain Loop Trail, which leads to the summit with panoramic views.
• Rock Climbing: Stone Mountain is a popular destination for climbers; however, note that permits are required for climbing and are available at the park office.
• Fishing: The park has designated Wild Trout Waters and offers excellent trout fishing in more than 20 miles of designated trout streams.
• Picnicking: There are several picnic areas equipped with tables and grills throughout the park.
• Horseback Riding: Horse trails are available, but horses are not provided, so you'll need to bring your own. Proof of a negative equine infectious anemia test is required.

Wildlife

• The park is rich in wildlife, including deer, squirrels, raccoons, and a variety of bird species. Bears also inhabit the park, so proper food storage and disposal are critical.

Park Regulations

• Fires: Fires are allowed only in designated fire rings or grills.
• Pets: Pets are permitted but must be on a leash not exceeding six feet.
• Alcohol: Alcoholic beverages are prohibited throughout the park.
• Preservation: Park visitors are expected to follow the Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty and resources.

Weather and Preparation

• The weather can be unpredictable, with colder temperatures at higher elevations, even in summer. It's essential to check the forecast before your trip and prepare accordingly with proper clothing and gear.

Accessibility

• Some facilities and trails are accessible to persons with disabilities, but due to the rugged nature of the park, accessibility is limited in certain areas. It would be best to inquire with the park regarding specific needs.

Contact Information

Prior to visiting or for more information, you can contact Stone Mountain State Park:

• Park Office: Available contact numbers are listed on the North Carolina State Parks website.
• Address: The park's physical address is also provided online to plan your trip using a GPS or other navigation systems.

For the most current and detailed information, visiting the official North Carolina State Parks website or contacting Stone Mountain State Park directly is advisable.