Pettigrew State Park

Pettigrew is one of many hidden gems in the NC State Park system. When I visited I found it quite empty as it was nearing the end of fall. A bit brisk out, and just after a late fall rain it was the perfect time for a visit. There were yellow leaves fallen along the wet boardwalk and nobody around.You can take the hike along the boardwalk all the way to the end where you will find that the park connects to the State Historic Site called Somerset Place. The boardwalk also takes you to the swimming hole. I imagine this place gets quite popular in the summer with families and kids coming out for a swim. The incredibly secluded Lake Phelps is by all accounts in my opinion another Bay Lake of the Carolinas. However, supposedly it is not officially listed as such. Nonetheless, it has all or most of the features of one, including being no deeper than about 10 feet at the deepest point - quite shallow for its size. A good half of the lake is quite difficult to access. Private residences are few and gamelands crossed by only gravel roads aplenty out this way.If you're working on your state parks passport, you will certainly eventually find yourself out here. But even if you aren't, you owe it to yourself to pay it a visit. Especially with kids in the summer.

It's kind of of out of way as close toThe coast as you are it would seem moreLogical to make the extra 30 minute drive the the beach or islands Otherwise it was worth the trip to check out once and allow me dog to run around considering how few were there.

Another gem in NC. Located six miles from Creswell, NC, this is a half-day stop at a minimum. There is no entrance fee. State Park Rangers lead education programs, the visitors center offers information and maps, along with a very cool taxidermy animal display of local wildlife. An easy quarter mile walk on a shaded board walk takes you to one of the cleanest lakes in NC. The depth of the lake is 3-9 feet, mostly around the 4 foot depth with clear water and a wonderful sand bottom. No mucky mud you'd expect from a lake. There is a designated swim area with a deck containing easy-to-use ladders for access. No diving as it is too shallow. No lifeguard on duty and no bathhouse. There are restrooms at the visitors center.The park also has a very nice picnic area again in the wooded shade of the old cypress forest near the board walk. You'll also find an informative sign on the junior ranger program. What else can you do with your time at the park? Hike the trail around Lake Phelps. Canoe, kayak or fish in the lake. Or go to the neighboring NC Historic Site for a free 90 minute guided tour of Somerset Place. Self guided tour brochures are available if you don't have time for the tour. This is a great stop on your drive to the Outer Banks. Appreciate all NC has to offer!

I think it's a beautiful place you can go fishing camping i all kinds of things that you can do in our town is really coming to life now we have several nice restaurants we still need a gas station But I'm hoping that will come soon