Gov. Pat McCrory has proclaimed this month as “Great Outdoors Month,” encouraging all North Carolinians to enjoy the state’s natural beauty and near-perfect climate, and celebrate North Carolina’s commitment to conserve and protect its air, water, wildlife, spectacular lands and quality of life. “June in North Carolina is just beautiful,” said Gov. McCrory. “From the Mountains, to the Piedmont, to the Coast, every part of our state has something to offer. Whether it is getting out and exploring our state’s many hiking trails in the mountains and state parks or enjoying a day at the beach, take the time this month to enjoy all that makes North Carolina the best state in the country.” Outdoor recreation is a boon to North Carolina’s economy. Its impact on the state exceeds $19.2 billion annually, with direct economic impacts of the state parks system exceeding $400 million annually.
National Get Outdoors Day is June 8, with a number of special programs at North Carolina’s state parks designed to enrich the experience of recreation and education in the outdoors. State parks have scheduled more than 24 programs for National Get Outdoors Day, as diverse as astronomy at Mayo River State Park in Mayodan, musket demonstrations at Fort Macon State Park in Atlantic Beach, and fishing at Eno River State Park in Durham and Jordan Lake State Recreation Area in Apex. Information about these free programs can be found at N.C. State Park Events.