Bestselling authors and native Tennesseans, J.L. and Lin Stepp, love exploring the beauty of the Southeast region near their home. After publishing three successful regional guidebooks, The Afternoon Hiker, spotlighting hiking trails in the Smoky Mountains, and two state parks guidebooks, Discovering Tennessee State Parks and Exploring South Carolina State Parks, the Stepps headed next to North Carolina, visiting all forty-one state parks and adding in the National Parks to make the book even more interesting. In a format similar to their previous guides, this new parks' guidebook focuses on introducing readers to the multitude of recreational opportunities and activities available in all of North Carolina's stunning and picturesque parks. Clear directions to parks are provided, along with details about amenities, practical tips, local history, suggestions for interesting things to do and see and a rich array of color photos. The Stepps have compiled a remarkable portrait of the amazing diversity of North Carolina's state parks, each one unique and fascinating in its own way. The book is organized into four regional sections so readers can easily locate and read about parks in the specific area they wish to visit. Indexes list the parks by state region and also alphabetically by name. Through the detailed and personal accounts portrayed, the book offers a joyous celebration of a unique and colorful state.