Merchants Millpond State Park Is A True Hidden Gem In North Carolina

State parks throughout North Carolina provide a welcome way to reconnect with Mother Nature, not matter the locale. On that note, found in the northernmost eastern part of the Tar Heel State is a state park worthy of a visit. Merhcants Millpond State Park is a hidden gem in North Carolina that’s totally worth seeking out.

Swamp meets forest in this 3,520-acre park in North Carolina. And at its heart is a 700-acre mill pond that’s perfect for exploring by way of a boat.

Google Maps/Matthew Brunelle

In the early 1800s, the pond was surrounded by industsy, mainly a gristmill, sawmill, a farm supply store, and more. It’s why the pond was named Merchants Millpond. But it came to an end just before World War II, and the merchants sold their lots to land developers.

Google Maps/Doug Bickers

By the 1960s, A.B. Coleman of Moyock, donated 919 acres to the state, including the mill pond. Today, this land is known as Merchants Millpond State Park.

Google Maps/Marty Lovell

With campsites that include drive-up, walk-in, hike-in, and canoe-in sites, the park has much to offer in the way of accommodations. There’s a campsite here for everyone.

Google Maps/Henry Francisco

You can even stay in a paddle-in only site along the pond.

TripAdvisor/Robert B

Don’t have a canoe or kayak? No problem! You can rent a canoe from the park.

Google Maps/T Bar

Other amenities offered by Millpond State Park include hiking on more than 22 miles of trails, fishing, camping, and picnicking.

Google Maps/Nathan Soule

If you’ve never explored Merchants Millpond State Park before, then consider this the year to change that!

Google Maps

Merchants Millpond State Park is located in Gatesville and is open year-round with hours that vary by season. Learn more from the official website for Merchants Millpond State Park.