Two state parks near Charlotte among those in NC closed through end of October from Helene damage

RALEIGH, N.C. ( QUEEN CITY NEWS ) — All North Carolina state parks in the western part of the state, including two in the Charlotte area, are closed through at least Oct. 31, the Division of Parks and Recreation announced Wednesday.

The division is assisting with the statewide emergency and rescue efforts in western North Carolina, in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. About 30 staff have been deployed on law enforcement assignments requested through the North Carolina Emergency Operations Center.

These parks — all west of Interstate 77 — include Chimney Rock, Crowders Mountain, Elk Knob, Gorges, Grandfather Mountain, Lake James, Lake Norman, Mount Mitchell, New River, South Mountains, and Stone Mountains state parks, as well as Mount Jefferson State Natural Area and Rendezvous Mountain.

In addition, all events and programs at all state parks have been canceled through the end of the month, with the exception of three events at eastern North Carolina parks.

Parks officials say scaling back operations across the state will allow staff to assist with critical deployments. In addition, the closure of western parks can help limit travel in the area while roads and other infrastructure are repaired.

The area has experienced devastating flooding, along with mudslides, power outages and road closures that have isolated communities throughout the region.

“The devastation brought by Helene in many communities across western North Carolina has been profound,” said State Parks Director Brian Strong. “The entire division wants to provide whatever assistance we can to our neighbors and to these areas that were hit hardest. We want to prioritize our resources, both staff and equipment, towards immediate and lifesaving needs.”

The news comes the same day that the National Parks Service announced that the Blue Ridge Parkway in the state would be closed indefinitely.

State park rangers are sworn law enforcement officers, and many park field staff — rangers and maintenance technicians — are certified as emergency medical responders, are trained to operate chainsaws and large equipment, and possess a commercial driver’s license. Staff will assess conditions, clear downed trees, and address any remaining safety hazards before reopening to the public.

“In the last few days alone, we have seen the entire state come together to support each other during this difficult time,” Strong said. “We know our parks are beloved by North Carolinians, but we also know our visitors are eager to help those who are grieving and those who have lost so much because of this storm.”

All reservations for campsites and other facilities such as picnic shelters at western state parks through Oct. 31 have been canceled and refunded in full.

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