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APRIL 2022

Photo Essay

Natural Wonder in North Carolina’s State Parks

From a 6,684-foot peak in the west to a shape-shifting sand dune in the east, our state parks hold the best of what North Carolina has to offer. Together, they tell the story of the place we call home.

by Tom Earnhardt
Features

The Safest Place: The Stewards of Jones Lake State Park

In Bladen County, before integration, a former military man and his family were stewards of the first North Carolina state park open to Black families. There, amid acres of longleaf pines and a sprawling lake, families and friends gathered to eat, play, and pray.

by Emiene Wright
Travel

Ants Go Marching at Cliffs of the Neuse State Park

In Wayne County, the effects of time and nature are visible at Cliffs of the Neuse State Park, where, for millions of years, the river has carved a winding path to the sea. A closer look at some of the park’s tiniest residents provides insight and answers to questions great and small.

by Eleanor Spicer Rice
Editor’s Column

From Elizabeth Hudson: A Time to Every Purpose

For our editor in chief, spring is a time of grand openings: of cookbooks and windows, garden sheds and grills.

by Elizabeth Hudson
Guides

3 Things to Add to Your April To-Do List

What we’re looking forward to this month: lovely landscapes, drinks in the garden, and statewide stargazing.

by Our State Staff
Living in North Carolina

A Love Letter to William B. Umstead State Park

Within this 5,000-acre respite from urban life in Raleigh, when you get off the map, you might just find yourself.

by T. Edward Nickens
Living in North Carolina

A Love Letter to Lake Waccamaw State Park

This state park — home to the crown jewel of the Coastal Plain’s Carolina bays — is worthy of wonder.

by Susan Stafford Kelly
Living in North Carolina

A Love Letter to Mayo River State Park

On secret spots, swimming holes, and the Mayo River.

by Drew Perry
Living in North Carolina

A Love Letter to Gorges State Park

This rugged area of rivers, canyons, and waterfalls still holds mysteries.

by Graham Averill
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