MAYO RIVER STATE PARK

Upon my quest to visit all 41 NC State Parks, I visited Mayo River State Park yesterday. Although the park is in its' infancy stage of the parks masterplan Mayo River State Park still has a lot to offer including two fishing ponds, picnic areas, a picnic shelter with a huge fireplace, restroom facilities, a .5 mile short loop trail (red) and a 1.8 mile longer loop trail (blue). The longer loop trail is an easily marked trail that takes you deep into the woods along a well maintained ATV style trail. The forest has very little underbrush creating a nice picturesque hike. Early into the hike you will see an old abandoned homestead on the left of the trail. Underneath the blanket of canopy are massive tree trunks stretching high toward the sky fighting for the suns' attention. The trail eventually follows the creek that feeds the two fishing ponds before closing the loop. Bailey enjoyed chasing the frogs and turtles back into the ponds. The Mayo River, which is not in the park itself, has been a draw for paddlers alike. Eventually the Mayo River State Park will encompass sections of the Mayo River offering even more amenities. The NC Division of Parks and Recreations has pictures of two scenic waterfalls posted but I couldn't locate them. I believe they are on the Mayo River and the future section of the park.


Hike: 1.8 Miles