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Haw River State Park wilderness guide
State Park · NC

Haw River State Park

Haw River State Park offers a haven of lush landscapes and tranquil waters, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful retreat amid North Carolina's natural beauty.

State Park1,4852+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

1,485

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Haw River State Park

Haw River State Park offers a haven of lush landscapes and tranquil waters, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful retreat amid North Carolina's natural beauty.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Haw River State Park, located in Guilford and Rockingham counties, spans across serene wooded areas and the tranquil waters of the Haw River. The park preserves a wealth of ecological diversity, featuring wetlands that are home to a variety of plant and animal species. Established to protect the headwaters of the Haw River, the park plays a vital role in regional conservation efforts. Visitors can explore an array of activities, from hiking along forested trails to observing birds and other wildlife in their natural habitats. Haw River State Park is also known for The Summit Environmental Education and Conference Center, which offers educational programs that highlight the park's environmental significance. With its mix of scenic landscapes and educational resources, the park appeals to nature lovers and families keen on learning about ecology and conservation.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Haw River State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Biking the Atlantic & Yadkin Greenway in Greensboro★ 7.5⌖ 9 miBiking
Greensboro

Biking the Atlantic & Yadkin Greenway in Greensboro

Biking the Atlantic & Yadkin Greenway in Greensboro offers 7.5 miles of easy, scenic trails along a historical railroad corridor. Enjoy lakeside views, wildlife, and interpretive signs detailing Revolutionary War history. Best visited in spring or fall.

Mayo River State Park★ 6.7⌖ 17 miHiking
Mayo River State Park

Mayo River State Park

Explore the Mayo River State Park in Mayodan, NC. Featuring a 2-mile trail of moderate difficulty, this spot is perfect for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the serene waterfall. Ideal for families seeking a peaceful escape during spring and fall.

Floating the Dan River in Danbury★ 7.5⌖ 22 miFloating
Danbury

Floating the Dan River in Danbury

Float along the Dan River in Danbury, NC, for a relaxing 2-5 hour trip. Enjoy easy currents and wildlife sightings like otters and herons. Family-friendly and perfect for kayaking or canoeing, the best time to visit is in spring and fall for optimal water levels.

Discover the Serenity of Salem Lake Trail★ 7.2⌖ 27 miBiking
Salem Lake Trail

Discover the Serenity of Salem Lake Trail

Explore the scenic 7-mile Salem Lake Trail loop in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. A great spot for biking, hiking, and birdwatching with fall foliage. Perfect for families seeking a peaceful outdoor experience close to town.

Exploring the Quarry at Grant Park in Winston-Salem★ 7.0⌖ 27 miHiking
Winston-Salem

Exploring the Quarry at Grant Park in Winston-Salem

Discover the Quarry at Grant Park in Winston-Salem, NC. This easy-access site features scenic quarry views, hiking trails, and photography spots. Enjoy year-round visits at this historical landmark, perfect for birdwatching and relaxing.

Camping at Hanging Rock State Park in Danbury★ 7.8⌖ 30 miCamping
Danbury

Camping at Hanging Rock State Park in Danbury

Explore Hanging Rock State Park in Danbury, NC, with its 73-site campground. Enjoy hiking trails like Hanging Rock Trail and Lower Cascades Falls. Perfect for camping and outdoor enthusiasts. Best visited in spring and fall. Busy in early summer.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ The Summit Environmental Education and Conference Center✦ Wetland ecosystems with diverse flora and fauna✦ Scenic views along the Haw River✦ Forest trails offering peaceful nature walks
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Haw River State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Haw River State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Haw River State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Haw River State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Haw River State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Haw River State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access, no permits required.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Haw River State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Haw River State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Browns Summit
⌖ 3.55 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Browns Summit, North Carolina

A quiet town offering access to gentle outdoor adventures with a focus on hiking, biking, and nature walks in the Piedmont region near Greensboro.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Summerfield
⌖ 8.79 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Summerfield, North Carolina

A quiet, rural town with easy access to lakes, trails, and parks, offering peaceful outdoor experiences close to the Piedmont Triad’s natural resources.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Greensboro
⌖ 12.46 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Greensboro, North Carolina

An urban oasis that offers a rich blend of history and outdoor adventure, perfect for those looking to explore nature without leaving behind city comforts.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Oak Ridge
⌖ 14.08 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Oak Ridge, North Carolina

A quiet rural community offering peaceful access to nearby lakes, forests, and trails for outdoor recreation enthusiasts looking for relaxed nature experiences.

Spring to FallExplore Town
Mayodan
⌖ 16.19 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mayodan, North Carolina

A quaint town offering access to riverside adventures and beautiful hiking trails in the Piedmont region.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Jamestown
⌖ 20.36 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Jamestown, North Carolina

A small town with tranquil suburban charm offering quick access to serene lakes and family-friendly outdoor activities near the Piedmont Triad.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Haw River State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Outdoor City Tours with Triad ECO Adventures in Winston-SalemHigh Point, North Carolina · 12.54 mi away
Trails & Outdoor Adventures· Triad ECO Adventures

Outdoor City Tours with Triad ECO Adventures in Winston-Salem

Join Triad ECO Adventures on a 2-hour Trolley Tour through Winston-Salem’s most captivating neighborhoods and landmarks. Discover the city’s history, culture, and hidden gems with a friendly guide and comfortable seating—an accessible way to experience Winston-Salem’s charm. Keep reading to learn more about this engaging city tour.

2 hours

Explore this trip

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.