We are so fortunate here in the Tar Heel State to have such amazing state parks to visit – and most of them are absolutely free. From Mount Mitchell State Park to Jockey’s Ridge State Park there is no doubt that our parks are quite breathtaking. Among them is a park featuring an enormous monadnock known as Stone Mountain, a huge alligator-back-shaped dome of granite with a bare face that can be seen for miles. And next to the park is a must-visit little general store called Stone Mountain Country Store that offers peace and tranquility in the shadow of the mountain, as well as some of the best burgers and ice cream around.
One of the best things about Stone Mountain is you don't have to be an avid rock climber or even a hiker to enjoy this park. Just the view of the mountain alone is astounding. And the park is filled with breathtaking streams and low-impact trails that just about any hiking level can accomplish - without trudging up to the top of Stone Mountain. You can easily spend a day traveling and exploring around this gorgeous park.
But if you do make the trek... wow. The views from up here are incredible, too. Either way, after a day at Stone Mountain you're sure to be hungry. Luckily we know of an incredible place to get a bite to eat.
Like its neighbor (the mountain), it's authentic and awe-inspiring. From the well-worn wooden floors to the merch and even the tongue-and-groove wooden ceiling high above, this place is a real head-turner. Just look at those authentic wooden floorboards, you can almost imagine them creaking under your feet as you walk.
Grab some snacks for the road home and even pull a cold one out of the aged and authentic Coca-Cola cooler. And then order up some grub for right here and now. There is a particular charm when it comes to these old country stores and this one has it in spades.
There are a few tables inside the store, but you'll surely want to head out to the porch for some incredible views enjoyed under the shade of the roof. There is hardly anything else that makes our southern hearts swell than to enjoy a good rocking chair on a covered porch.
The menu isn't extensive, but after a day wandering the park in wonder, you won't care. Chances are they will have just what you're looking for anyways.
From chicken tenders to hamburgers, hot dogs, and sandwiches, there's something for everyone. The prices are super reasonable and lend themselves to the old-timey feel of this country store.
And when you're done, head back inside and grab an ice cream cone for the road. Just beware: the cones are oversized and overflowing. On a hot day, you might just need to gobble it up fast, but what is better than an oversize ice cream cone after a day of hiking in the hot sun?
Why not make a day trip out of the Stone Mountain Country Store and Stone Mountain State Park? It will certainly fill you with views, a good dose of the outdoors, and a healthy portion of nostalgia.
Sounds like a winning combination! By the way, Google reviewers currently give this little general store in North Carolina 4.5 stars. That’s amazing! We would give a day spent in the park and a visit to the Stone Mountain Country Store an easy 5-star rating.