This relatively new facility is the home to the U.S. Olympic Whitewater Teams - the kayak and canoe teams that compete internationally for the USA.  Because of its newness, it is still undergoing some growing pains, but is right now one of the best places in the Carolinas (perhaps in the country?) to create a day of active outdoor fun.

The entrance road into the park was just recently completed, allowing better access to the park.  The parking entrance fee is $5 per car, but once inside there are a number of free activities that visitors may choose from, including an excellent and still-growing network of mountain bike and hiking trails that zig-zag up and down through the heavily-treed and surprisingly steep riverside hills.  This is a very popular place for dog walkers, too, who tend to stick to the flatter trails around the lake or down along the riverside.

The main attractions are the professionally-guided instruction in whitewater sports, both kayaking and rafting, as well as a large artificial rock climbing wall and an unusual and thrilling outdoor adventure center which is used for high ropes training, zipline enthusiasts (kids love this), and corporate and group team-building challenges (everybody over the wall, etc.)  There are charges for these special attractions, and you can occasionally find coupons and discounts promoting the park in local media or on the web.  Check the www.USNWC.org website for information on prices and package deals.  Large groups should call the park and book a time and price for the entire group.  Because of ongoing construction there can occasionally be erosion issues in times of inclement weather which have been a bit unsightly, but which should resolve themselves with time.   The park will occasionally have to close one or more attractions because of weather or for periodic maintenance, so you should check the weather, the park website, and call the park for updates on conditions and possible closings. 

There is a small convenience shop, snack bar, restaurant with salads and sandwiches, and even a pretty good beer/wine selection at an indoor/outdoor pub with up close views of the toughest rapids and gates on the whitewater course.