Parks Outside Mecklenburg

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CANE CREEK PARK IN UNION COUNTY: 1,050 acres surrounding a 350-acre lake with a variety of fish. Campers can bunk at one of six rustic cabins or a variety of campsites. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, visitors enjoy swimming, pedal boats and miniature golf. http://www.co.union.nc.us/QualityofLife/ParksRecreation/CaneCreekPark/tabid/364/Default.aspx.

DAN NICHOLAS PARK: A merry-go-round, small train, paddleboats, small zoo and much more make this park in Rowan County a must-do. www.dannicholas.net

CHIMNEY ROCK PARK: Located about two hours west of Charlotte in the mountains, this park offers spectacular 75-mile views, hiking trails for all ages, a 404-foot waterfall and more. Go in early morning or late afternoon on weekdays to avoid the crowds. $14/adults, $6/children ages 6-15, kids under 6 are free. www.chimneyrockpark.com

CROWDERS MOUNTAIN STATE PARK: One of the best places to hike close to Charlotte, this park in Gaston County offers miles of trails, views that stretch more than 20 miles, rock climbing, picnicking, camping and water sports. http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/crmo/main.php.

KINGS MOUNTAIN STATE PARK: Just over the state line in South Carolina, this park has miles of trails, equestrian facilities, group camping barracks, campgrounds, two fishing lakes with boat rentals and the Living History Farm, a replica of a typical farm from the early to mid- 1800s. It’s adjacent to Kings Mountain National Military Park, site of a pivotal Revolutionary War battle. http://www.southcarolinaparks.com/park-finder/state-park/945.aspx.

OTHER N.C. STATE PARKS: N.C. Division of Parks and Recreation: www.ncparks.gov

OTHER S.C. STATE PARKS: S.C. Department of Parks and Tourism: www.discoversouthcarolina.com/parks/parks-main.aspx

NATIONAL FORESTS IN N.C.: www.cs.unca.edu/nfsnc