Hanging Rock State Park

Since its creation as a 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps project, Hanging Rock State Park has offered the best of a traditional outdoor experience with 73-site campground, picnic grounds, stocked lake for swimming and canoe rentals and more than 20 miles of hiking trails that climb onto spectacular views and weave alongside clear streams and waterfalls. There is also access on the Dan River for paddling, 8.4 miles of mountain biking trails and rock climbing opportunities with permit. A complex of vacation cabins is available for longer visits.

Swimming
**During the 2021 season, the swim beach is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The beach is open Thursday through Monday following regular operating hours.**

Tucked into the hills is an inviting 12-acre lake, formed by the damming of Cascade Creek. A popular center of activity at the park, the lake is a source of beauty as well as fun. A hardwood forest extends to the shoreline from surrounding slopes, and paths along the lakeshore lead to the dam and offer views of the lake and surrounding woodlands. A stone and timber bathhouse includes restrooms, dressing rooms, a snack bar and a lounge area with a view of the lake and Moore's Knob. See the Fees/FAQs/Rules for information about operating hours and costs.

Hiking
The park is a great place for a hike! See the Trails page for more information.

Boating and Fishing
Fishing is permitted year round on the lake for bass, sunfish and catfish. Anyone over 16 years old must have a NC fishing license. Fish from the shore, the wheelchair accessible pier or from a rental boat.

**Hanging Rock State Park is not offering boat rentals in 2021.**

Rowboats and canoes are rented for use on the lake during the spring, summer and fall. Private boats are not allowed.

The Dan River Access on the north side of the park provides parking and a ramp for fishing, paddling and tubing. Bring your own equipment or take advantage of nearby outfitters who provide equipment and shuttling services for kayaking, canoeing and tubing.

Fishing the Dan River in the park is generally for smallmouth bass and sunfish. The best practical access for fishing is by boat or wading.

Climbing
Rock climbing is available in the park by permit. Cook's Wall and Moore's Wall, a series of cliffs up to 400 feet high and extending almost two miles, provide opportunities for seasoned climbers and novices alike. All other areas of the park are closed to climbing and rappelling.

Swimming
**During the 2021 season, the swim beach is closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. The beach is open Thursday through Monday following regular operating hours.**

Tucked into the hills is an inviting 12-acre lake, formed by the damming of Cascade Creek. A popular center of activity at the park, the lake is a source of beauty as well as fun. A hardwood forest extends to the shoreline from surrounding slopes, and paths along the lakeshore lead to the dam and offer views of the lake and surroun