Description:

While many places designated for picnicking in the North Carolina mountains are filled to the brim with tourists and locals during spring, summer and fall, the Old Fort Picnic Area is one of the more well-kept secrets in this neck of the woods. The entrance is at the intersection of Mill Creek Road and Old US-70, before Old US-70 becomes the Point Lookout Trail Greenway. The picnic area itself is part of Pisgah National Forest (look for the National Forest sign at the entrance).

The natural beauty in this tucked away spot includes flowering dogwoods and wildflowers in the spring, summertime shade provided by towering trees, and colorful fall foliage. The Swannanoa Creek meanders along one side of the picnic area and evergreen rhododendron and forested land borders the other side.

Weekends in the summertime and fall can draw local families to the Old Fort Picnic Area, as well as people with their dogs, and hikers and mountain bikers who are exploring the trails nearby. Even if a group is at the picnic area, the grounds are expansive, with plenty of parking and space for everyone. Several all-weather tables and grills are available for picnickers and there is even a picnic shelter in case of rain. The picnic area also has restroom facilities.