State Park · North Carolina

South Mountains State Park

Location: Burke County, North Carolina
Nearest town: 7.2 miles south of Salem
Type: State Park

About South Mountains State Park

High Shoals Falls draws the most visitors within this stretch of the South Mountains, part of the foothills leading into the Blue Ridge range. The land spans 20,949 acres, encompassing peaks that rank among the tallest in that foothill chain. Trails here climb through terrain shaped by the mountains and the falls, giving visitors a mix of elevation and water to explore.

Hours, fees, camping, reservations and closures are set by the park and change often. Check the official park site before you go.

Getting there

South Mountains State Park is in Burke County, North Carolina, 7.2 miles south of Salem. The Directions button takes you to the park's mapped location; the entrance may be elsewhere, so check the official site for the address to use.

State parks near South Mountains State Park

Within 60 miles, closest first, straight-line. All 38 in North Carolina →

Towns near South Mountains State Park

State parks near Hickory, State parks near Shelby, State parks near Lenoir, State parks near Lincolnton, State parks near Gastonia, State parks near Gaffney

Facts from Wikidata, checked September 25, 2026. Distances are straight-line.