Park Description
Plunging waterfalls, rugged river gorges, sheer rock walls and one of the greatest concentrations of rare and unique species in the eastern United States are found within Gorges State Park. An elevation that rises 2,000 feet in only four miles, combined with rainfall in excess of 80 inches per year, creates a temperate rain forest and supports a collection of waterfalls.
On April 29, 1999, thanks to a unique partnership of industry, the environmental community and the state of North Carolina, 10,000 acres of the Jocassee Gorges in Transylvania County were placed in public ownership to be preserved for future generations of North Carolinians. The property was purchased by the state from Duke Energy Corporation, and the transaction created a 2,900-acre gameland managed by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission and a 7,100-acre state park North Carolina's newest state park and our first state park west of Asheville.
Because Gorges State Park is so new, the park is still in its planning and development phase. Currently, park staff are working with local citizens in a planning process that will give everyone the opportunity to participate in the preparation of the park's master plan, a document which determines long-range plans for the park, including facility development and management. Only a few facilities have been constructed while the park's master plan is being completed. Therefore, the park's information, rules and regulations are subject to change.
Hours of Operation: Park hours November-February, 8 a.m.-6 p.m. March and October, 8 a.m.-7 p.m. April, May, September, 8 a.m.-8 p.m. June-August, 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Closed Christmas Day
Park office hours 8 a.m.-5 p.m. daily Closed state holidays
Fees:
Fee structure not known
Metro Region: Asheville, NC
Park Management: State
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