The mission of DuPont State Recreational Forest (DSRF) is to provide an exemplary model of scientifically sound, ecologically-based natural resource management for the social and economic benefit of its diverse community of users.
In 2011, DuPont State Forest was redesignated as a State Recreational Forest by the North Carolina General Assembly, to be managed primarily for natural resource preservation, scenic enjoyment and recreational purposes, including horseback riding, hiking, bicycling, hunting and fishing. DSRF is the only State Recreational Forest in North Carolina.
DSRF features spectacular waterfalls, unique ecological communities, lakes and an extensive trail system, and is managed by the North Carolina Forest Service under the NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
Visitors to DSRF should be prepared for a rugged outdoor experience. DSRF has limited options for public drinking water and no food services. While cellphone service is limited, free wireless internet service is available at the Visitor Center, which also offers trail maps and a knowledgeable staff to help you plan your time in the forest.
There is a weather station located at the Guion Farm, on the north side of DSRF. Hourly weather readings, including rainfall amounts can be found
here.
DSRF is open daily and year-round 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Friends of DuPont Forest
Friends of DuPont Forest is a volunteer service organization working to enhance the public use and enjoyment of the DSRF while assisting in resource protection. Find out more
here.
Trails and Trail Closures
In DuPont State Recreational Forest, the trail system is basically divided into two groups: Roads and Trails. The trails are generally considered single-track.
Trails and paths are narrower in width and have a natural dirt surface, or tread. Trails are often in more remote areas, are more susceptible to damage and harder to reach for maintenance.
Roads are wide and often have a gravel surface which can tolerate more use and varying user groups.
During a Single-Track Trail Closure, the roads will remain open while, for the most part, the trails will be closed.
These Roads and Wider Trails Generally Remain OPEN During a Single-Track Trail Closure:
The Airstrip (the paved airstrip is open; the trail is closed)
Bridal Veil Falls Road .6 miles
Buck Forest Road 3.2 miles
Camp Summit Road .5 miles
Conservation Road 2.6 miles
Corn Mill Shoals Trail 2.7 miles
Fawn Lake Road 1 mile
Hickory Mtn Road .9 miles
High Falls Loop 2.05 miles (Sometimes the Spur to the base can be flooded and might be closed, visitors should pay attention to barricaded areas. The staircase to Triple Falls may also be closed upon flooding and rising water levels at the bottom of the staircase.)
Holly Road 1.4 miles
Hooker Falls Trail .34 miles
Joanna Road 4.2 miles
Lake Imaging Road 1.5 miles
Lake Julia Road .4 miles
Rock Quarry Road 1.3 miles
Sheep Mtn Road 1.6 miles
Tarkiln Branch Road 1.4 miles
Thomas Cemetery Road 1.6 miles
White Pine Trail .5 miles
White Pine Loop .2 miles
Wintergreen Falls Trail .5 miles (sometimes has tendency to flood, visitors should use caution and pay attention should the area be closed.)
Total mileage that remains open: 28.49
How are State Forests different from State Parks?
State Forests:Hunting may be allowed in some circumstances
Recreational opportunities vary between forests
State Parks:
Focused on preservation, with minimal manipulation of natural systemsHunting is not allowed
Wide variety of recreational opportunities
For information and questions about:
Forests, trees, timber production or wildfire prevention: N.C. Forest ServiceWildlife, hunting, fishing or boating: N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission
Camping, outdoor recreation, or natural and cultural heritage: N.C. State Parks and Recreation
