1. Entrance is free. Daily park hours are currently 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. but will extend to 10 p.m. from June to August.

2. Activities on the premises include paddling, hiking trails, picnicking, fishing, camping (backpack & paddle-in campsites), camper cabins and nature programs.

3. Knowing the weather forecast is a must for any outdoor activity. Rain was expected the day of our visit, but we were prepared with ponchos and umbrellas. On our way back to the parking lot, it went from sprinkles to a downpour fast.

We passed many drenched hikers. A ranger there told us we were the "smartest people" he'd seen at the park that day. The lesson here?

Know the weather and be prepared.

Find my remaining tips at this link.

The tips above were written as part of an article for WRAL’s Go Ask Mom. Soon after, I received the kindest email offering additional tips for hiking this great N.C. State Park. Thank you “F” for such valuable information & for helping me help others. It’s greatly appreciated!

Just so you know, “F” is a former volunteer for RARO. He worked there for about two years. I’m including his tips below for your convenience & in hopes of making your Raven Rock visit even more enjoyable.

Additional Tips

“1. The park often fills to capacity and access will be restricted. Check the park website for up to date parking status (and well as trail status).

2. For those people hiking in the afternoon, be aware of sunset times and carry a FLASHLIGHT if appropriate. We have discovered many folks rely on their cellphone as a light, but with the poor cellular coverage, they drain QUICKLY.

3. Again…following the sundown topic…do not attempt to hike trails near sundown. The trails are unlighted and there have been plenty of calls for Rangers to help locate and transport hikers out on trails during the dark. This applies especially to Campbell Creek Loop Trail

4. The “basic” bike trail (a little over 6 miles) was specifically designed to accommodate hand-bikes for those folks with disabilities.”

**Please be sure to share these tips with anyone who could use them.

To read a personal account of our day trip to Raven Rock, get all of the details here.

You can also watch the vlog from our visit below. Be sure to subscribe to our channel for upcoming adventure videos.