Cliffs of the Neuse State Park: 66 Million Years of History, Right Outside Goldsboro

Just south of Goldsboro sits one of Eastern North Carolina's most unexpected natural landmarks — dramatic, ancient cliffs rising along the banks of the Neuse River. Here's what makes Cliffs of the Neuse State Park worth the trip.

The Geology and History

The cliffs themselves are ancient — estimated at 66 to 90 million years old, formed when a shift along a fault line pushed the land upward along the eastern bank of the Neuse. The exposed cliff face shows visible layers of sand, clay, shale, and gravel — a kind of natural cross-section of this area's deep history, back to when the Atlantic Ocean covered this part of North Carolina.

The area was also historically significant to the Tuscarora people and later European settlers, and creeks within the park were once used for moonshine and cornmeal production.

The park itself has a more recent history: local landowner Lionel Weil worked with others in the area to establish it in the mid-1940s, and it officially opened to the public not long after. Today it covers just under 1,100 acres of forest, wetlands, and longleaf pine restoration areas.

What's There Now

• Hiking trails — About 5 miles of trails ranging from short, easy walks to more moderate 2-mile routes. The 350-Yard Trail is the shortest and most popular, since it's the only one offering direct access to a scenic overlook of the cliffs themselves.
• An 11-acre lake — Built for swimming, paddling, and boat rentals (personal watercraft aren't allowed). Fishing is permitted in the river, but not in the lake.
• Camping — Both tent sites and full hookup RV sites are available.
• Picnic areas — 100 picnic tables and grills spread across the grounds, plus a large covered shelter that can be rented for groups up to 100.
• A visitor center/museum — With exhibits on the park's geology and natural history (hours can be limited, so it's worth checking before a visit if that's the draw).

One Important Update

The swim lake and beach area is currently closed for reconstruction, with NC State Parks targeting a reopening for summer 2027. If swimming or paddling is the main reason for your visit, it's worth checking the park's current status before you go — the hiking trails, picnic areas, and camping remain open in the meantime.

Getting There

The park sits at 240 Park Entrance Road, Seven Springs, NC. From Goldsboro, the most common route runs south on US-117, then out NC-111, passing near Seymour Johnson AFB along the way.

Curious what else makes life near Goldsboro and the Neuse River worth loving? Let's talk about the area — and what it's like to actually live here.