3 Activities to Enjoy in NC This Summer
This year has been an interesting one to say the least. No matter who you are, you have been affected by more than a few curve balls 2020 has thrown at you. Luckily, we are entering summer and as Charles Bowden once said, “summertime is always the best of what might be”.
North Carolina is a beautiful state every day of the year, but it is particularly beautiful during the summer months. From our serene coast to the mesmerizing mountain ranges and everything in between, there are endless opportunities to enjoy your summer in NC this year.
1. Canoeing, Kayaking, and Tubing
Although beautiful, North Carolina summers are HOT! One of the best and most fun ways to stay cool is to be on/in the water. Canoeing, kayaking, and tubing spots are present all over the state!
East coast paddlers enjoy the peaceful scenery of overhanging trees and water birds at Goose Creek State Park. This is a great option if you own a kayak or canoe but unfortunately the park does not offer rentals.
If you plan on being in central North Carolina this summer, check out Cape Fear River Adventures in Lillington. They offer kayaking classes, lazy river tubing, white water adventures, and even paddleboard yoga! This is a great spot for beginners who want to rent vessels.
Western NC has amazing paddling options as well. Zaloo’s Canoes has something for everyone. Take a relaxing 2-3 hour float down New River, a 5-mile kayaking trip, or an overnight canoe adventure!
2. Visit a State Park
What better way to spend your summer than exploring the great outdoors? Visiting State Parks is a wonderful way to experience and appreciate NC. There are currently 41 places that make up the North Carolina State Parks system.
Jockey’s Ridge, located on the Atlantic coast, is home to the tallest living sand dune, a great place to hike, and the perfect spot to watch the sun set. Visitors also enjoy flying kites and adventure seekers get a thrill out of hang gliding lessons!
Located just a few minutes from town amenities, Eno River is a great option for those who don’t want to go too far off the beaten path. It’s no surprise that it was named the Regional State Park of the Year because of its nearly 28 miles of scenic trails that take hikers into the heart of nature.
Hiking is an obvious activity to enjoy at Grandfather Mountain, but this State Park is full of surprises! Its unique wildlife exhibits are built around the natural habitat of cougars, black bears, elk, otters, and bald eagles. Grandfather Mountain’s mile high swinging bridge is arguably its most breathtaking feature.
3. Camping
North Carolina offers a camping (or glamping) experience for everyone. It is easy to find traditional camping sites by doing a simple internet search. However, if you’re looking for a unique experience, you’re in the right place!
In the coastal plains, camp on the Roanoke River, literally! These platform sites offer a unique experience of camping a few feet above the water. If the beach is more your scene, try Cape Lookout National Seashore and camp in the sand, a short distance from a lighthouse.
Central NC offers more glamorous versions of camping. Live out your childhood dreams and spend a weekend at Treehouse Vineyards. That’s right. You can rent a treehouse to “camp” in. If you’re a coffee lover, you’ll love Long Cove Resort which proudly serves Starbucks in each cabin.
The North Carolina mountains region features unusual camping shelters. At Blue Bear Mountain Camp, you can stay in an RV, tent, cabin, or even a 22 foot tall teepee! If you love paddling, you’ll love French Broad Paddle Trail. Spend all day paddling down the river to your next campsite, set up camp, sleep, wake up, repeat.
No matter which region of North Carolina you decide to spend your summer, there are tons of options for everyone. Just remember: stay safe, have fun, and don’t forget your sunscreen! If you’re ready to explore Historic Bath, NC, we’d be delighted to have you stay at the Inn on Bath Creek. Click here to request a room today, or call us on 252-923-9571.
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