North Carolina is home to a diverse array of national and state parks that offer stunning natural beauty and recreational opportunities. One must-see park is Great Smoky Mountains National Park, which straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee. This park is known for its lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. Visitors can explore over 800 miles of hiking trails, go fishing in its numerous streams, or take in the breathtaking views from Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the park. Another popular park is the Blue Ridge Parkway, which runs through the mountains of western North Carolina. This scenic drive offers panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, as well as access to hiking trails, historic sites, and charming mountain towns.

In addition to these major parks, North Carolina is home to a variety of state parks that offer their own unique attractions. Jockey's Ridge State Park, located on the Outer Banks, is home to the tallest sand dune on the East Coast and is a popular spot for hang gliding and kite flying. Pilot Mountain State Park, near Winston-Salem, features a distinctive peak that offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. With over 40 state parks to choose from, there is no shortage of outdoor adventures to be had in North Carolina. So whether you're looking to hike, camp, fish, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature, North Carolina's parks have something for everyone.