Gorges State Park - Sapphire, NC - North Carolina State Parks

Hiking
The park is a great place for a hike! See the Trails page for more information.

Fishing and Boating
Rainbow trout, brown trout and smallmouth bass can be found in the waters of Gorges State Park. Fishermen who are up to the challenge of fishing in remote locations, are invited to try their luck. All streams and rivers in the park are designated Wild Trout Waters. Regulations of the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission apply. Anglers should exercise caution and stay away from waterfalls. Due to the rugged nature of the park and swift water currents, no swimming is allowed in rivers, creeks or ponds. Bearwallow Creek and Toxaway River both flow through the center of the park. Lake Jocassee, a deep lake straddling the North and South Carolina border is a haven for trout and bass fishermen. Boat access is available at Devil’s Fork State Park in South Carolina.

Mountain biking and horseback riding
See Trails for more information. Horses and mountain bikes are permitted on the Auger Hole Trail from the Frozen Creek access area to Turkey Pen Gap on the western boundary of Gorges State Park. The Frozen Creek access area in Rosman provides a picnic area and trailhead for the equestrian and hiking trail. Horses and mountain bikes are not permitted beyond Turkey Pen Gap. All visitors with horses must be able to provide proof of a negative equine infectious anemia (Coggins) test while visiting North Carolina State Parks.

Picnicking
Picnic tables in the midst of the forest make Gorges State Park a pleasant spot for lunch or dinner after an exhilarating hike. Some picnic tables are wheelchair accessible. Visitors must carry out what they bring into the park. Recycling stations are located throughout the park. Two picnic shelters are reservable.

Waterfall Overlook
This overlook is accessible from the Bearwallow Picnic Area. The trail begins near the parking lot and is blazed with blue circles. The trail leads to a small observation platform overlooking a long cascade on Bearwallow Creek. As the park undergoes evaluation, additional hiking trails may be developed. Existing trails in sensitive habitats may close due to concern for natural resource protection. To minimize human impact on the park, Gorges State Park is a carry-in / carry-out facility. Recycling containers are located throughout the park for the convenience of visitors. Please exercise caution while hiking near waterfalls. Not only are the rocks slick and the risk for injury high; many rare species thrive in the misty atmosphere created by the falls, and human contact can be detrimental to the plants' survival.

Auditorium
The auditorium accommodates up to 75 people. It has tables, chairs, and a complete A/V system. Reservations are required. Please call the park for more information.

Classroom
The classroom accommodates up to 40 people. It has tables, chairs, and sink. Reservations are required. Please call the park for more information.

Picnic Shelters
Unreserved picnic shelters are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. However, the shelters are very popular, so reservations are strongly suggested. The two reservable picnic shelters at Gorges State Park are affordable and ideal for large group outings. They each accommodate 100 people, and have fireplace, grill, electricity, water and restrooms.