State parks currently vary in check-in and check-out times, but this year all parks will have a check-in time of 3 p.m. and a check-out time of noon. The new hours apply to tent, trailer and/or RV campsites, group campsites, equestrian campsites, paddle-in campsites, walk-in campsites, backpacking campsites and camper cabins. The only exceptions will be overnight facilities at The Summit Environmental Education and Conference Center at Haw River State Park and the vacation cabins at Hanging Rock and Morrow Mountain state parks.

“We are looking to implement this change across state parks for consistency and an improved camping experience,” said Kathy Capps, deputy director of operations for the division. “Many of our campers expressed concerns that the current system is confusing and makes travel planning difficult. In the winter months, they are also finding that they often have to set up their campsites in the dark. The change will also allow park staff to develop a consistent cleaning schedule for all campsites.”