Day Trips from Winston-Salem
← All Winston-Salem day tripsDay Trips from Winston-Salem: State Parks & Natural Areas
The best state parks and natural areas within driving distance of Winston-Salem, NC. Hiking, camping, swimming, and stunning scenery without the national park crowds. Real drive times, ratings, and visitor info included.
12 state parks near Winston-Salem
South Mountains State Park
Connelly Springs, NC 28612
Just 1 hr 34 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.9 stars by 2,909 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
New River Gorge National Park & Preserve
USA
Just 2 hrs 45 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.9 stars by 5,921 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Grandfather Mountain State Park
Banner Elk, NC 28604
Just 1 hr 58 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 6,617 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Pilot Mountain State Park
Pinnacle, NC 27043
Just 24 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 7,603 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
New River Trail State Park
Max Meadows, VA 24360
Just 1 hr 17 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 2,084 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
McDowell Waterfront Deck - McDowell Nature Preserve
Charlotte, NC 28278
Just 1 hr 36 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 542 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Eno River State Park
NC 27705, USA
Just 1 hr 12 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 2,633 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Anne Springs Close Greenway - Lake Haigler
Fort Mill, SC 29715
Just 1 hr 29 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 873 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Natural Bridge State Park
Natural Bridge, VA 24578
Just 2 hrs 38 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 8,139 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
New River Gorge National Park: Sandstone Falls Recreation Area
Shady Spring, WV 25918
Just 2 hrs 49 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 657 visitors, a popular destination with plenty to see and do.
Best time to visit: Spring and fall offer mild weather and smaller crowds at most attractions.
Raven Rock State Park
Lillington, NC 27546
Just 1 hr 37 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 3,682 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Mount Jefferson State Natural Area
West Jefferson, NC 28694
Just 1 hr 35 min from Winston-Salem, rated 4.8 stars by 784 visitors, perfect for hiking, scenic views, and getting outdoors.
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October.
Frequently Asked Questions About State Parks Day Trips from Winston-Salem
What are the best state parks near Winston-Salem, NC?
The best state parks near Winston-Salem offer hiking, camping, swimming, fishing, and scenic overlooks. Check the cards above for top-rated parks with drive times, ratings, and budget estimates.
How much does it cost to visit state parks near Winston-Salem?
Most state parks near Winston-Salem charge a vehicle entry fee of $5-$15 per day. Annual passes are usually available for $25-$50 and pay for themselves in 2-3 visits. Camping fees are separate and vary by site type.
Which state parks near Winston-Salem are best for camping?
Several state parks within driving distance of Winston-Salem offer campgrounds ranging from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV sites with showers. Book early for summer weekends, as popular parks fill up months in advance.
What is the best time to visit state parks near Winston-Salem?
Spring and fall offer the best weather and smallest crowds at state parks near Winston-Salem. Summer is great for swimming and camping but parks are busiest. Winter visits are peaceful and many parks stay open year-round for hiking.
Don't know where to go?
Tell us your interests, budget, and how far you want to drive. We'll find the perfect trip for you.
Surprise me