From long country roads to well-worth-it hikes and coveted views, there’s so much hiding in North Carolina just waiting to be explored or better yet, found. The following list of destinations includes everything from delicious home-cooking to magical horses, uncharted coastlines, and mountaintop adventures. If you’re seeking secluded places to visit in North Carolina, consider this to be the ultimate itinerary.

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1. Mike's Farm, Beulaville
Trip Advisor / Matthew W.
Facebook / Mike's Farm
Our list of secluded places to visit in North Carolina begins with none other than Mike's Farm. From fried chicken and biscuits, to farm views, this unique restaurant on a farm might be a bit of a drive but the experience is worth it. Throughout the year, the farm also hosts special events and decorates according to the season. Pop in the gift shop to pick up some local goodies or take a hay ride around the property. The best part of course, is the food. For more information about Mike's Farm and how to get there, click here.
2. The Outer Banks Scenic Byway
Outer Banks Realty
Flickr / Harrison Group
Driving along the OBX Scenic Byway feels very 'ends of the earth' but you are right where the last sliver of land meets water. Spanning 13 miles plus 25 ferry miles, the byway cruises along the remote islands of the Outer Banks with the Atlantic on one side and the Pamlico on the other. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and we've already planned the trip for you.
3. The Road to Nowhere
Flickr / woodleywonderworks
The Road to Nowhere is filled with heartbreaking history and eerie yet beautiful views. From an underwater ghost town and the story behind it to the strange tunnel that dead ends - while strange and very far out there, you're treated to coveted views of Fontana Lake and the Smoky Mountains.
4. Carova
Flickr / Abbyladybug

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As one of the least developed places on the OBX, and only accessible by four-wheel drive, getting to Carova is no easy task, but it's worth it. From wild horses, stellar sunrises, private beaches, and turquoise water, you might want to spend a week or two here.
5. Lake Glenville
Lake Glenville Lot
Located at 3,500 ft. elevation and surrounded by mountains, Lake Glenville is a little-known paradise. You'll find this amazing reservoir eight miles from Cashiers. The 1,500-acre lake is home to some of the cleanest, most pristine water found in North Carolina. To make it even more unique, the lake is also home to three separate waterfalls accessed by boat. It's easy to see why Lake Glenville made it on our bucket list.
6. Big Oak Drive-In
Yelp / Sloan S.
Yelp / Doug R.
Ok, so maybe Big Oak isn't totally out in the Boonies, but we did suggest that driving across the state for one of their shrimp burgers is totally encouraged and acceptable. While there's plenty of competition on the coast for best shrimp burger, you can't beat the masterful simplicity of Big Oak. You'll find it down a long stretch of highway in Salter Path. You can learn more by visiting the Big Oak Drive-In website.
7. SOCO Falls
Flickr / Vijay Somalinga
This stunning double waterfall is located between Maggie Valley and Cherokee and can be accessed off HWY 19. You'll see a sign and a small parking area, and with a short walk you can view it from an observation deck or journey down for an up close look. There are also various, small cascades in the area but this twin waterfall is a truly unique sight just waiting to be discovered in the Smokies.
8. River's End Restaurant
Nantahala Outdoor Center
Located at the Nantahala Outdoor Center deep in the smokies, River's End lets you dine riverside while watching all the action of the NOC. From kayakers and whitewater rafters to even those just enjoying the views, you'll sure to get a meal and somewhat of a show. Stop by after a long, adventure-filled day hiking and enjoying nature.

What are your thoughts on these secluded places to visit in North Carolina? Are there any destinations that you would add to the list? If so, feel free to chime in below!

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secluded places to visit in North Carolina

Beth C. | December 01, 2020

Does North Carolina have any hidden gems?

Absolutely! The Tar Heel State is positively brimming with hidden gems, from little-known beaches to waterfalls, hiking trails, restaurants, swimming holes, and just about everything in between. Some of the most famous hidden gems in North Carolina include the Winston-Salem Quarry Park, Fryingpan Tower, the House of Mugs, Lake Lure Flowering Bridge, Hubb's Farm, Carolina Beach State Park, Merchant's Millpond State Park, and Max Patch. Learn more about all of these places by reading our previous article: These 8 Hidden Places Are North Carolina’s Best Kept Secrets.

What are the best road trips to take in North Carolina?

North Carolina is a beautiful state that is best explored by car. You can drive a few hours in any direction and be positively enchanted by the scenery that awaits you. There's so much to explore, in fact, that we've compiled countless road trips over the past years. If you love exploring North Carolina's waterfall, then you should take this waterfall to explore the state's tallest falls. Or, if you're a fan of the paranormal, check out this road trip that takes you to the most abandoned places in North Carolina. Prefer checking out the Tar Heel State's incredible culinary options? Then hop in the car and embark on a journey that takes you to the best tacos in North Carolina. You can't go wrong with any of these incredible road trips!

Where can I drive on one tank of gas in North Carolina?

North Carolina is a vast state, and it takes the better part of one day to get from the mountains of western North Carolina to the beautiful coastline. Fortunately, there are plenty of places you can get to on one tank of gas or less. These destinations include Hanging Lake State Park, Pik N Pig in Carthage, Pilot Mountain, Roan Mountain, the Brown Mountain Lights, North Carolina Museum of Art, Uwharrie National Forest, Great Dismal Swamp, Lake Norman State Park, and Mary's Gone Wild Folk Art and Doll Baby Museum. Learn more about these one-of-a-kind destinations by reading our previous article: Amazing Places You Can Go On One Tank Of Gas In North Carolina.

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