Mayo River State Park

A nice little state park. So we get in the car heading north from Greensboro and we set google maps to our destination. First set of directions leads us to a private property that borders the park. We laugh, turn around, and enjoy the country setting. Second set of directions takes us to a state access road that is no longer! Ugh we are so close, on the perimeter of the park again! So we google earth it and get back on business 220 like the generic directions on the parks website clearly say to do! Had we only followed them. We see the river, again, so close. The park access is on the other side. 220 separates the park access and the river. Ok cool we get out and hike the trail loop. Thinking it will lead to the river at some point. It is nice well marked and pretty level – a moderate hike. Once you complete the trail loop you are back to the two small fishing lakes. There is one very large shelter, one smaller shelter and a picnic area with two tables. The grounds are well kept! If you love to fish you would probably give this 4 stars. I just knew I was close to the river but couldn’t actually see it. The state park owns property right on the river, on the other side of Business 220 but you cannot access it on foot or by car. There is a canoe access however right before the «mountain «access. Anyway, clean, well marked trail, anice small park and trail. Wish you could access the scenic river!

My visit to Mayo River State Park was intended to be scouting visit to locate the newer North Carolina State Parks. Then decide which parks I would bring my family back to visit, picnic, etc. My first impression was it is very well maintained and therefore well managed.
The road to Mayo Mountain which seems to be the largest section of the park help prepare me for what to expect. When I arrived at the open area, I noticed the park office, the picnic area, and the fishing ponds. The staff was extremely friendly and explained what the park offered and what areas to explore.
I will definitely return to this jewel of a park with my family to explore it further!