Rockingham County’s waterscapes can be experienced on different scales: the county’s water recreation includes three lakes and four rivers, with access to more than 4,500 acres and 88 miles of waterways. These figures become tangible at individual locations—for example, at a waterfall on Fall Creek, along trails through wetlands or at river access points. The region’s history is also connected to its waters and surroundings.

Rivers, Lakes and Trails

Mayo River State Park offers recreational opportunities at Mayo Mountain and at several access points along the Mayo River. At the Deshazo Mill access point, there is a waterfall on Fall Creek. There is no fee for day use of the park. Before you go, check the official park website for current rules and reservations; camping, permits and reservations may still incur fees.

Haw River State Park extends across Rockingham and Guilford counties. Trails and a boardwalk lead through wetlands and a floodplain swamp. At Iron Ore Belt Access, the views take in the flora and fauna of the wetlands in Piedmont oak-hickory forests. These offer contrasting perspectives on nature: wetlands and swamp on one side, and the plant and animal life of oak-hickory forests on the other.

Lake Reidsville Park sits on a 750-acre lake and offers opportunities for boating, kayaking, fishing, hiking, disc golf and camping. For those looking to compare trail lengths, there are two clearly described options: the Farris Memorial Park Walking Path is a one-mile loop around the park’s lake; the two-mile hike on the Matrimony Creek Greenway ends at a large cascade on Matrimony Creek.

At Madison River Park, a flat, 0.4-mile concrete path runs alongside the river. Two paved river access points allow 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. These locations offer different experiences: a riverside path, access for water activities or a hike with a cascade as its destination.

Traces of History

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. Check current access conditions before visiting.

Troublesome Iron Works, also known as Speedwell Furnace, was built by William Patrick in 1770 and played a significant role during the American Revolutionary War. The Museum and Archives of Rockingham County tells the county’s natural and cultural history, including its role in the American Revolution and the development of the Piedmont region. The archives preserve historical and genealogical collections, including public records, manuscripts, photographs, maps, cemetery records and other primary sources. These materials are available to researchers and family historians.

Quilt Blocks and Festivals

The RoCo Quilt Trail is a self-guided tour through Rockingham County where visitors can discover local traditions and experience the county’s scenic beauty. Colorful, hand-painted quilt blocks adorn barns and other buildings. The tour connects this recurring design motif with locations throughout the county, without requiring a fixed itinerary.

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

Regional Food and Drink

The county’s culinary offerings include pit-smoked barbecue and cat-head biscuits. The craft beverage scene includes microbreweries, distilleries and wineries. GIA Distillery offers guided tours and tastings; confirm current availability before your trip. Rockingham County offers everything from waterways and outdoor experiences to history, festivals and regional flavors.

Discover more destinations: Eden, Reidsville, Transylvania County, Swain County, Randolph County, Burke County, Mcdowell, Dare

For the broader travel overview: North Carolina.