Just an hour and a half from Charlotte is the beautiful South Mountain State Park in North Carolina, perfect for an adventurous backpacking trip. We set out on an exciting weekend journey, camping at the primitive Jacob Branch campsites. Our adventure began by taking the River Trail to Raven Rock Trail, followed by Fox Trail, Jacob Branch Trail, and finally Upper Falls Trail on day one to reach our campsite. On the way back, we took Shinny Trail to H.Q. Trail, creating a scenic and adventurous loop. Although we didn't keep track of the miles, it was probably around 8-10 miles in total.
The trails offered stunning views, peaceful streams, and lush forests, making it an unforgettable experience. The Jacob Branch campsites provided a serene backcountry escape where we could fully immerse ourselves in nature. Whether you're an experienced backpacker or looking for a new adventure, South Mountain State Park is a fantastic destination. We hope sharing this trip inspires you to explore the great outdoors and discover the beauty of North Carolina. Happy adventuring!