South Mountains State Park trails

Dogs on a leash all year

Forest trails to the 80-foot High Shoals Falls.

Source: NC State Parks, South Mountains State Park. Checked October 29, 2026.

Follow the signs at the trailhead: parks can close areas to dogs for wildlife.

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South Mountains State Park: the rule in full

Pets are allowed in the park and at campsites on an attended leash of 6 feet or less at all times, but not inside buildings.

Nearby beaches

• Oak Island beachOff-leash dogs allowed from October 15 to March 15. Dogs on a leash from March 16 to October 14
• Kure BeachNo dogs 9am to 5pm, from April 1 to September 30. Dogs on a leash all year
• Emerald Isle beachDogs on a leash all year
• Kill Devil Hills beachNo dogs 9am to 6pm, from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Dogs on a leash the rest of the time
• Nags Head beachDogs on a leash all year