Howard Knob County Park

Downtown Boone, NC

The newly renovated Howard Knob County Park, also known as Howard's Knob Park, reopened to the public in July 2026.  Howard Knob County Park is the only county park featuring amazing views of Downtown Boone. 

The park features a covered picnic area with grills and benches, handicap accessible uncovered picnic tables with grills, a grassy knoll for lounging, and a short path to the skywalk viewing area.

There are 2-3 port-a-johns conveniently located at the main parking area. There are no plumbed bathrooms, or water fountains on site.

For more info, click HERE

Julian Price Park Picnic Area

Blue Ridge Parkway MP 296.5

This picnic area is very popular with families. There are many picnic tables with grills located along a creek that children love to play in.  There are also a few wide flat spots perfect for playing frisbee, backyard croquet or having a sack race!  The park is also the start of one of the High Country's most popular trails, the Boone Fork Trail.

Tate Evans Park

Banner Elk, NC

Tate Evans Park is located in downtown Banner Elk and is a great place to spend the day.  The park has plenty of picnic tables with grills and two covered picnic shelters.

Tate-Evans Park provides a walking trail, two playground areas - one area for smaller children and Fort VonCanon for more active children.  There are wading pools, a volleyball court, picnic tables, and a covered picnic shelter.  Restroom facilities are available from April though September. For more info, click HERE

Grandfather Mountain Picnic Areas

Linville, NC

While Grandfather Mountain is known for the mile-high bridge, animal habitats and nature museum, the park has plenty of other amenities, including multiple picnic areas.

The Woods Picnic Area is located near the base of the mountain and is a good place for a picnic when you need shade and shelter from wind. There are bathrooms and a Kids in Parks Nature Trail located on site.

Many picnic tables can be found as you drive to the top of the mountain beside overlooks, tiny waterfalls or in hidden coves.

**Entrance Fee required to enter picnic areas

Ashe County Park Picnic Area

Jefferson, NC

This park has multiple picnic tables with grills and shelters with restrooms. The park is home to plenty of activities to keep you busy all day, including disc golf, hiking trails, three playgrounds, fishing and ball courts. For more information, click HERE