Established in 1961, Uwharrie National Forest spans approximately 51,850 acres across Montgomery, Randolph and Davidson counties.
Straddling the border between North Carolina and Virginia, the Great Dismal Swamp is a vast, mysterious wilderness that has intrigued explorers and naturalists for centuries. Encompassing more than 112,000 acres, it stands as the largest remaining swamp in the Eastern United States. This biodiverse haven is home to an array of wildlife, including black bears, river otters and 200-plus species of birds.
Perched atop a mountain in Burnsville, the Bare Dark Sky Observatory offers an unparalleled stargazing experience, free from the intrusion of urban light pollution. As part of the Mayland Earth to Sky Park, it boasts the "Sam Scope," a 34-inch Newtonian telescope — the largest in the southeastern United States dedicated to public use.