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Gorges State Park |
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PO Box 100, Sapphire, N.C. 28774-0100
(828) 966-9099
gorges@ncmail.net
Plunging waterfalls, rugged river gorges, sheer rock walls and one of the
greatest concentrations of rare and unique species in the eastern United States
are found within Gorges State Park. An elevation that rises 2,000 feet in only
four miles, combined with rainfall in excess of 80 inches per year, creates a
temperate rain forest and supports a collection of waterfalls.
On April 29, 1999, thanks to a unique partnership of industry, the environmental
community and the state of North Carolina, 10,000 acres of the Jocassee Gorges
in Transylvania County were placed in public ownership to be preserved for
future generations of North Carolinians. The property was purchased by the state
from Duke Energy Corporation, and the transaction created a 2,900-acre gameland
managed by the NC Wildlife Resources Commission and a 7,100-acre state park —
North Carolina's newest state park and our first state park west of Asheville.
Because Gorges State Park is so new, the park is still in its planning and
development phase. Currently, park staff are working with local citizens in a
planning process that will give everyone the opportunity to participate in the
preparation of the park's master plan, a document which determines long-range
plans for the park, including facility development and management. Only a few
facilities have been constructed while the park's master plan is being
completed. Therefore, the park's information, rules and regulations are subject
to change.
Park hours
November-February, 8 a.m.-6 p.m.
March and October, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.
April, May, September, 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
June-August, 8 a.m.-9 p.m.
Closed Christmas Day
Park office hours
8 a.m.-5 p.m. daily
Closed state holidays |
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