Beautiful State Park, the hiking experience is very nice, easy to access facilities & parking, very popular location. There are active beavers here as well around the river bank areas, which is cool to see. The lodge isn't anywhere by the trails though, so no worries about that. A lot of the trails due to the tree structures have lots of surface roots everywhere, but if you're steady on your feet, it's no issue at all. To get down to the falls is a bit steep, but people have made a very visible path, just be careful. There is also a hike in campground close by the falls as well, didn't go there so not sure what it looks like, but there is an outhouse and trashes so there are some facilities out there to use.

Title: I recently had the pleasure of exploring Raven Rock State Park and it was nothing short of a splendid experience. With its perfect blend of easy to moderate trails nestled near serene water bodies, it surely stands out as one of the best hiking destinations in the region. Raven Rock offers a spectacular experience with diverse trail options, catering to both novice and seasoned hikers. The trails are remarkably well-kept, winding through picturesque landscapes and providing occasional glimpses of the park's namesake - the imposing Raven Rock. This makes each journey not just a hike, but a delight for all senses. What sets this park apart, however, is its unique proximity to water. Numerous trails meander close to the Cape Fear River, and tranquil creeks can be found throughout the park. Hikers can relish in the soothing sound of running water, a calming companion that adds a special touch to every hike. But the magic of Raven Rock State Park doesn't stop there. Its vast acreage and preserved habitats make it a thriving sanctuary for wildlife. Bird enthusiasts will particularly enjoy the chance to spot a variety of species, while other wildlife sightings add an exciting element of surprise to each visit. Despite its popularity, Raven Rock never feels crowded, which is a testament to its impressive size. There are plenty of secluded spots where one can retreat into nature's embrace, undisturbed. This sense of privacy combined with the untouched beauty of the park creates an ambience of peaceful solitude, an increasingly rare luxury in today's fast-paced world. Overall, Raven Rock State Park offers an unparalleled blend of natural beauty, varied trails, abundant wildlife, and quiet spaces. It is an easy to moderate hike near water that will captivate you with its tranquil charm and array of visual delights. For those who appreciate the outdoors, a visit to this park is not just recommended, but a must.

Beautiful place to hike. The Little Creek trail has a ton of small waterfalls (just a couple of feet high but still beautiful and peaceful). The rock itself is impressive, as is the view from the top. The bridle trails are pretty but they're a long way from the main entrance. And the falls are worth the trek.

Beautiful state park! We loved doing the trails here. Even on a hot day like today the trees provided wonderful shade throughout the trails. There many benches and resting spots to take a breather on the trails. The cliff and rock formations at the bottom of the Raven Rock Loop trail were super cool! My kids loved exploring and climbing that area. Beautiful views of the river both from the bottom area and then again at the lookout point. We had 5 of our 7 kids with us - ages 5, 7, 10, 13 and 17. Our youngest two need some resting stops on the Raven Rock loop trail but still did great and finished. If your kids are active and love running and being outside they will love this trail! Just bring lots of water and give them little breaks when they need to give their legs a rest. There is quite a bit of stairs which aren’t bad going down but going up it was a little challenging for the younger kids. I huffed a bit myself 😅 watch out for the roots as some of the trail is extremely BUMPY. We stopped at the bathrooms and they were very clean which was a great surprise. All in all a very fun day hiking in the beautiful state of North Carolina and one of my favorite state parks here so far. Definitely worth exploring ☀️☀️

Great place to enjoy many different activities. On this visit, we hiked the Campbell Creek Loop Trail. Walked over 7 miles in total. Bring a bottle of water if you go on this hike and wear sensible hiking shoes. Nice trail to get away from the world for a while. Commune with nature. It's a good place to clear your mind. And who doesn't enjoy all the State Parks North Carolina has to offer? On to Jordan Lake next. Don't forget that San-Lee Park is right down the road. Happy trails!

Went hiking at Raven Rock for the first time and it was a great day. Many of the trails are 2 to 4 miles and relatively easy, though there are some hills that have steps built in to the earth. The overlook was great and the river was beautiful, but quite a few a wooden steps to get down there. I did notice that when I was leaving there was a 45 minute wait to get into the park because they were out of parkway.

Great hiking trails, well marked, unpaved, easy but if you have some joint problems may get difficult while we ascend, there are some stairs at some places. Raven Rock is a great spot to go, the raven rock loop trail is around 2 miles. There is a nice overlook, has a picturesque view of Cape Fear River. Fish trap is also nice to go, only thing is muddy stones and there were insects, should use repellent. This park has campgrounds, picnic shelter, restrooms, benches, trails, River, parking.

Great state park to have an outdoor adventure! Great scenery with plentiful rest areas. There's a loop trail that runs along a scenic creek. Nice overlook of the Cape Fear River. Raven rock itself was a sight to see. Came here with my family, packed a lunch and was one of the best picnics we've had.

Several notes that might be helpful for your visit :") 1. Restrooms are closed after 4:30 ! 2. I suggest first taking the "Campbell creek" [4.5 miles: blue circle blazer] trail and enjoy the hidden jam overlook close to the "Lainer Trail". 3. After taking the above trail; try "Raven Rock loop" [2.6 miles: orange circle blazer] with "Fish Trap Trail" [1 mile: blue triangle] 4. If you are hiking during the summer, highly recommend to use insect repellers. 5. Enjoy and have fun *_* you can have the best overlook in "Fish Trap Trail"

So we decided to take the venture to go out to Raven Rock Park on a cloudy day. It was the perfect temperature for a little hike. The only downfall was in the previous day's there was rainfall so it was a little muddy. Our original plan was to visit the falls. In a quick Google search I had mistaken Raven Rock Falls to be at the same place. It is nowhere close to there. However Lanier Falls is located in this State park. So we decided to take the hike from where we were parked to the falls. It was around a 2.6 mile hike. You never quite got there! But it was not because of the hike being too treacherous. You simply got caught up in all of the great views and locations we found in the park. We arrived in the afternoon and it seemed like time flew. This is quite a few beautiful locations and Lookout points to experience while there. The people hiking were also friendly. It's a great family afternoon outting.

Great state park. It’s so green and beautiful. Nice bathrooms. Well taken care of. We did have to wait to get in when we go there around 10am. The parking lot was full. Worth a little wait.

Beautiful State Park and this was a first time visit. Huge park and will be hard to hike all the trails on one visit. The trails have different levels of difficulty but none as too extreme. Just ensure you are aware of the difficulty level before beginning your hike. The trails hiked so far, are well kept and clearly marked. All Natrual floor. Absolutely recommended and will be revisited.

It’s everything you might expect from a state park, however I did not enjoy it too much. I went straight to the raven rock lookout and then to see the rock, it’s is massive. The place is okay, there is not many areas were you can rest while hiking -I like when I can sit and admire my surroundings-the trail is mostly walkable but some areas have bumps-it’s actually the root’s trees coming out or rocks or steps- make sure you have comfortable shoes. The terrain is not all completely flat, strollers are not made for this, I see some parents leaving them on the way-. Getting in the water is not possible , it’s kinda muddy, the place it’s not adapted to it at least in the area close the rock. Bathrooms located in the two parking lots, bring water with you cause you will need it. This is the kind of places that If you get out of the trail and something happens no one will know, not cellphone signal in some areas.

I love Raven Rock State Park! The staff is amazing and work really well as a team. The camp ground is really nice and the trails are great.

A great spot to get some exercise and connect with nature. Trails vary in difficulty, but fairly easy for most. Families with younger children may want to pass on Raven's Rock due to the steep incline and stairs leading down to it. It is well worth the trip to visit.

This trail is so beautiful. Was able to walk for 7 hours and there was still more to explore. It's taken care of soooo well! There are some restrooms and benches along the trails and also some picnic areas

Great hidden gem south of Raleigh. The 4.5 mile Campbell Creek Loop Trail while marked as moderate, the hilly terrain and uneven surface on the hills can end your day with a twisted ankle. Use caution. With that in mind it is a beautiful trail especially during peak fall colors. If you go in the afternoon in late fall and winter, check your watch and make sure you can get back before the park gate is locked. Also, you will find yourself stumbling in the dark. I did not plan enough time and had to cut my adventure off early. I didn't make it to the Lanier Falls. The signage before the trail warns you to allow three to four hours to enjoy the trail. I also would lean toward the four hour time limit so you can stop and enjoy the scenery. This is a free state park.

One of the few places around that has bridle trails. Would really appreciate having the parking lot marked for the hikers parking. Due to the fact that we have limited parking for our trailers and they are taking up our spots for parking. Should be obvious for them but, apparently it is not. We don't mind the hikers but, it is causing problems with the parking. Hikers are parking in trailer parking. Tempers have already been sparked. Beautiful area and all kinds of terrain for your horses. Expect flat ground, a few rocky areas, hills, ditches, streams and a nice creek that flows to the cape fear river. We do have shoes on our horses due to the rocky areas. Great place for a young horse in training. We love to ride here frequently. Definitely worth the drive.

Through curiosity we drove out to Raven Rock State Park. Beware that depending on the time of day you go you may have to wait in a car line. Be patient, it is worth the wait. This is mix of smooth trials, to rocky or root filled trails. Visitor center is very clean and there are plenty of trails to try out. Lots of people bring their dogs here but the owners were very respectful and picked up after their dogs. This was well worth the 45 minute drive and we can’t wait to come back and try out some of the other trails!

Very nice area especially for this area of NC. I usually walk my dog here or walk around with one of my friends. All the hiking trails here are really flat and easy, although scenic. Campbell Creek Loop trail is my favorite in particular. The rock isn’t anything too special, but I’m from the mountains so I’m a bit biased. You also get some rare “high”elevation views. There’s an overlook on the main loop trail a couple hundred feet above the Cape Fear. There’s also camping and mountain bike trails here.

First time visiting. August and 95 degrees not sure what we were thinking but we made it lol! Our group decided to hike out to Lanier Falls. My Dad always told stories of river floats he did and how they’d hide on those rocks during lightning storms so I wanted my sons to see the area. Good long hike! Bring plenty of water, snacks and wear bug spray/dress accordingly! We started at about 330 hiking in and hiked back out by 8. We took our time going in and had kids with us. Can’t wait to go back in the Fall to try the other trails.

A pretty park that is only an hour away from the Triangle area, in a region where the Piedmont meets the Coastal Plains. It’s not terribly crowded and gets less footfall than Hanging Rock or Pilot Mountain. Expect to find some elevations to challenge you a bit along the trails, nonetheless.

The park is nestled in the country side with a very beautiful and scenic small river rapid (Lanier falls). I ran the 5 mile trail and took me an hour and half. Fall colours throughout the trail are lovely... Watch out for the yellow jackets, got stung by one during the trail. But thoroughly worth the hike.

It's great. I love that they have both moderate and easy hiking trails. A little something for everyone. The trails are also very well maintained.

Beautiful park with plenty of parking, a staffed visitors center (until 4:30pm), and multiple trails to hike. Trails are mostly easy to moderate in difficulty. Bathrooms close at 4:30pm. There are water fountains at the entrance to refill reusable water bottles.

This was our first time going to this park and we enjoyed it a lot!! The views were amazing. And even though it started raining and we got soaked we enjoyed every minute.

Three expansive areas with dedicated biking, hiking, and bridle trails. Camping available. Welcome Center on site. Variety of hiking trails can be challenging due to elevation, rocks, and roots on trails. Allow plenty of time, bring adequate hydration, and enjoy!

We stayed at the campground. Huge site. Electric, water, and sewer. Site 17. The hiking is good for all ages. Bike trails are harder than they look. Host family very friendly.

Raven Rock State Park has amazing views and several trails. You can walk, bike, picnic, camp, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Raven Rock has recently become more popular and well known, so on pretty weekends, you may find yourself waiting in line to get parking. This place is worth a wait!

Very nice afternoon hike on the Northington Ferry trail and Raven Rock loop trail (10/23/2023). Still early on leaves changing colors-some yellows so far. Trails had some roots and rocks, but still easy to walk.

Great park! About an hour’s drive from downtown Raleigh. We arrived later in the afternoon but were able to do the Raven Rock Loop Trail and the two shorter trails (American Beech and Longleaf) before the sun went down. The early November weather was perfect! My only complaint was we did not realize we were supposed to go a different way after the split in the Raven Rock Loop trail- I did not see a sign or trail marker. Due to this, we just went back the way we came. In hindsight, we probably should have looked at a map. 😂 We’re excited to come back and do the longer trails- or maybe rent one of the cabins!

The signs with distances posted are way off. For example, one sign says the Raven Rock loop trail is 10 miles. It's not even half that. The trails were well maintained and easy to navigate. This place was definitely worth checking out.

Absolutely loved visiting this place for a day hike. Glad it was dog-friendly and easy enough for the kids. We also very much enjoyed the use of the picnic pavilion after we got back to our cars. Can't wait to see what the new garden area will look like when it's done!

Nice hike with well-groomed trails, but nothing spectacular. Probably spoiled be the grandeur out west, though I do love the Appalachians and the peaceful vibe. I saw quite a few people with fishing poles, and maybe that's the secret here. It certainly would add a little more purpose. There is a densely shaded lookout that provided a stop with a cool breeze blowing across the river. Nice break on a warm day.

What a lovely state park near Raleigh. Raven rock loop trail is well known and popular. Personally, I would like to recommend for you to take a walk on the Fish Traps Trail. During the Fall season, the parking area would be fully occupied and there would be a waiting list. So please check the website before you go there.

Lovely park in a rural area. We visited on a warm September Sunday. After waiting on line for roughly 10 minutes the park ranger waved us in. I enjoyed hiking through the deeper timber. Land was largely level, making for an easy hike. Parking was solid but the lot was almost full. Thumbs up for a fun experience.

Love this park! Especially the bridle trails since I ride horses more than I hike. It's like a micro climate environment in the Piedmont region (edge of where the coastal plains and Piedmont meet "fall zone"). You feel like you're in the Western side of NC mountain region.

Love this trails. It has beautiful hidden places that it's worth the hike, but make sure you have plenty of water. It can easily take 4 hrs to hike one of the many trais.

The pups and I love coming here. The trail is always busy, but not crowded, and the pet owners have always been respectful of maintaining distance and asking before allowing the dogs to socialize. This is a wonderful park with clean restrooms at the entrance, at least one trash can on the trail and plenty of benches along the trail to stop and rest. The covered path is a wonderful retreat from the sun on a warm day, there are plenty of beautiful spots to take family photos and walking along the stream is very relaxing. When it gets really busy the line can be 30 or more cars waiting to enter and park. I have never had the patience to wait it out but signs say it is approximately 45 mins. You really couldn't ask for a better park with no entrance fee.

Excellent option for walking or hiking, family place, different trails options

Nice place to hike. I hiked down to the Raven Rock formations along the Cape Fear River. Very scenic, easy going down hill, up is alittle harder. Also ran across two does.

I love this place. So clean and pretty. We took the trail next to the visitor center and planned on fishing but didn't realize it was a two more Le walk to get to the river. So I would advise to find a different entrance if your planning to go fishing because it gets exhausting carrying all the gear. But it was okay I didn't make it to the river in time but omg the creeks are beautiful and clear and cold in the summer. I was in love with this place. I can't wait to go back just to walk the trails. Definitely a great place to go with your significant other or family. A+

Many trails and camping is available. Its beautiful and very quiet. I absolutely love this place. There are all levels of trails from mild 1 mile to 5 mile intermediate hikes. Lots of wildlife.