Local

Morrow Mountain State Park grows with sizeable land donation

STANLY COUNTY, N.C. — Morrow Mountain State Park in Stanly County just got bigger thanks to a donation of more than 1,000 acres.

The donation is part of ALCOA Corporation’s relicensing agreement with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission that was finalized in 2013. It brings the park’s total area to 5,881 acres.

The property is situated on the north-northwest side of the park and along the Yadkin River. It will provide new recreational opportunities including hiking trails, water access and potential for camping.

The area, which includes the historic Hardaway site, features large boulder fields, scenic vistas and unique wildlife habitat. It is home to nesting bald eagles, timber rattlesnakes and the rare Yadkin River Goldenrod.

“This is a substantial addition to this treasured state park,” said Susi Hamilton, secretary of the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources, in a news release.

“Morrow Mountain has been a beloved destination for families from Stanly and nearby counties for generations. The opportunity to have this amount of Piedmont land for conservation, recreation and education is extraordinary.”

For more information about Morrow Mountain State Park, click here.