Some seasons in the Tar Heel State are all about exploration and discovery, especially when it comes to the outdoors. And sometimes, it seems the state parks associated with the biggest tourist attractions may get all the love. Places like Chimney Rock and Stone Mountain are, after all, the spots our guests most want to see when they arrive with luggage in hand. But there are some lesser-known state parks in North Carolina that will absolutely amaze you. Take a look below.

1. Elk Knob State Park - Todd

One of the newest state parks in the system is still a hidden secret among many natives. But Elk Knob, and its forever views, won't be a secret for long. At this park, not only can you cross country ski when there's snow on the ground, but all year long you can hike down into the canyon to one of the primitive backcountry campsites for an immersive adventure in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Elk Knob State Park is located at 5564 Meat Camp Rd., Todd, NC 28684. Park entry is free; backcountry campsites are $10/night. Hours are: November to February 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., March, April, May, September and October 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m, June through August: 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (Closed Christmas Day). More information is available at this link.

2. Fort Macon State Park - Atlantic Beach

Opened on May 1, 1936, Fort Macon became North Carolina's first official state park. Aside from touring this historic Civil War-era location, you can also hike, fish, picnic, and swim along the sandy beach. Fort Macon is located at 5633, 2303 E Fort Macon Rd., Atlantic Beach, NC 28512. Hours vary by activity; the fort itself is open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Learn more here.

3. Goose Creek State Park - Washington

Explore coastal wetlands, swim from a sandy beach, or have an adventurous tent camping experience at this coastal state park located near Bath and Washington. The two towns offer a multitude of day trip excursions as well. Goose Creek State Park is located at 2190 Camp Leach Rd., Washington, NC 27889. Entry is free. Park hours are: November - February 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., March - May, September and October 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., June - through August 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. (Closed Christmas Day). Learn more at this link.

4. Crowders Mountain State Park - Kings Mountain

Rock climbing and bouldering are everyday activities at this state park that features some especially rugged terrain for the Piedmont. If you're not up for such strenuous efforts, then easier (and flatter) trails are also available. Crowders Mountain State Park is located at 522 Park Office Ln., Kings Mountain, NC 28086. Park entrance is free. Hours are: November 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., December through February 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m, March through April, and the month of October: 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m, May through September: 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Learn more at this link.

5. Eno River State Park - Durham

Five access points in the surrounding area offer ample opportunity for nearby residents to enjoy this state park that boasts more than 30 miles of trails, a swiftly moving creek in which to cool off, camping, and a suspension bridge the kids will love. Check it out. Eno River State Park is located at 6101 Cole Mill Rd., Durham, NC 27705. Park office hours are: Monday - Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Friday 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Saturday/Sunday 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Free admission. Learn more, and get a list of the other access points, at this link.

6. Lake James State Park - Nebo

You name it, and this park has it, including a 6,800-acre lake perfect for swimming, boating and fishing. The park also has not one, but three campgrounds- so there's no reason to leave at the end of a perfect day. One of those campgrounds is only accessible by way of a kayak or canoe! A concession area within the park rents kayaks, canoes and paddleboards from May to September. Lake James State Park is located at 7321 North Carolina 126, Nebo, NC 28761. Entry into the park is free. Using the swimming area (open May 1 - September 30) costs $5/day for persons age 13 and over; $4/day for children ages 3-12. Park hours vary. See at this link.

7. Lumber River State Park - Orrum

If you enjoy the paddle life, then this state park has all you need for a weekend of river adventures. Thirty two possible aqua trails are found within the park, ranging from one hour to a full day of adventure. Lumber River State Park is located at 2819 Princess Ann Rd., Orrum, NC 28369. Park entry is free; hours vary based on the area you're accessing within the park. Learn more at this link.

These state parks in North Carolina are amazing! How many have you visited before? We'd love to know.