Grand Opening Visitor Center Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony

Come One! Come All!

The visitor center at Lake James State Park is officially open to the public following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, held March 10.

Esteemed guests included N.C. Dept. of Natural and Cultural Resources Secretary Reid Wilson, N.C. State Representative Hugh Blackwell and N.C. School of Science and Math Vice Chancellor Kevin Baxter, while members of the community took seats in front of the grand entryway.

In her opening remarks, Park Superintendent Nora Coffey said the visitor center is realization of a tremendous collaboration of architects, exhibit designers, artists and craftspeople.

“Today I am grateful and excited about this facility and how it will play a role in the future of this park and the community that surrounds it,” she said. “This center of discovery and learning and adventure epitomizes the North Carolina State Parks’ mission to teach about, interpret and foster a sense of stewardship for the wild and wonderful places we are so lucky to share with people from across the state and beyond.”

Money for the project was designated in the 2016 Connect NC bond by the state legislature. Then-Gov. Pat McCory signed the measure and groundbreaking took place back in 2019. Additional funding for exhibits and teaching space came from the Rostan Family Foundation, Duke Energy, the National Park Service and Friends of Lake James State Park.

The 7,860-square-foot visitor center, with exhibit hall, retail space, classrooms, offices and outdoor amphitheater is open every day except Christmas, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.