Rockingham County: Water, Trails and History

Rivers and lakes give Rockingham County a strong connection to the water, while trails, historic sites and local events add to its appeal. On your trip, you can choose from outdoor experiences, cultural history and festivals. The county’s water recreation includes three lakes and four rivers, with access to more than 4,500 acres and 88 miles of waterways.

Lakes, Rivers and Trails

Lake Reidsville Park sits on a 750-acre lake. Activities available there include boating, kayaking, fishing, hiking, disc golf and camping. Mayo River State Park offers recreational opportunities at Mayo Mountain and at several access points along the Mayo River. A waterfall on Fall Creek is located at the Deshazo Mill access point. There is no fee for day use at Mayo River State Park. Check the official park website for current rules and reservation information before you go; fees may apply for camping, permits and reservations.

At Haw River State Park, which spans Rockingham and Guilford counties, trails and a boardwalk wind through wetlands and a floodplain swamp. The Iron Ore Belt Access offers views of wetland-rich flora and fauna in the Piedmont oak-hickory forests. The options also include shorter routes: the Farris Memorial Park Walking Path is a 1-mile loop around the lake at Farris Memorial Park. The hike along Matrimony Creek Greenway is twice as long at 2 miles and ends at a large cascade on Matrimony Creek.

Madison River Park combines a flat, 0.4-mile concrete riverside path with two paved river access points. These provide opportunities for swimming, kayaking and tubing and connect directly to beach areas. Water Street Dan River Access is a public launch site for canoes, kayaks and tubes. The water experiences described here range from riverside trails to access points for a variety of watercraft.

Historic Places and Traces of the Past

High Rock Ford is a historic ford on High Rock Creek, a tributary of the Haw River in Rockingham County. From February 28 to March 12, 1781, it served as General Nathanael Greene’s headquarters. High Rock Ford is also the highest navigable point on the Haw River. If you are considering a visit, check current access conditions in advance. Troublesome Iron Works, also known as Speedwell Furnace, was established by William Patrick in 1770 and played a significant role during the American Revolutionary War.

The Museum and Archives of Rockingham County presents the county’s natural and cultural history, including the region’s role in the American Revolution and the development of the Piedmont. The archives preserve historical and genealogical collections, including public records, manuscripts, photographs, maps, cemetery records and other primary sources. Researchers and family historians use these materials. Visitors interested in local traditions can also explore the RoCo Quilt Trail: the self-guided tour travels through Rockingham County, where colorful, hand-painted quilt blocks adorn barns and other buildings.

Festivals and Regional Specialties

The annual festival calendar includes the Spring into Madison Festival, Reidsville’s FAB Festival, Eden’s RiverFest and the Stoneville Fall Festival. RiverFest takes place in Eden’s Historic Leaksville district and celebrates the town’s art, history and river heritage. The district dates back to 1797. The FAB Festival features local food trucks and regional craft breweries. Oink & Ale takes place each year on the third Saturday in June, with barbecue, beer and music. Check current festival dates before your trip.

Rockingham County’s culinary offerings include pit-smoked barbecue and so-called Cat-Head Biscuits. Its craft beverage scene includes microbreweries, distilleries and wineries. GIA Distillery offers guided tours and tastings; confirm current availability before you go. You can combine nature and cultural destinations with regional flavors and event dates that fit your travel plans.

Explore more destinations: Eden, Reidsville, Moore County, Beaufort County, Transylvania County, Burke County, Mecklenburg, Person County.

For the main travel overview: North Carolina.