Accessible Adventures in Wilkes

June 12, 2025

Wilkes County is committed to being a destination for ALL travelers. We ensure equitable and inclusive locations to accommodate a diversity of needs. Our hope is that all visitors are welcomed with kindness, able to explore with confidence and overjoyed with natural beauty Wilkes County has to offer all around them.

This is our current list of accessible destinations within our county. This list continues to grow, and we will attempt to update as frequently as additions are added to our community. We encourage you to check weather conditions for your travel itinerary as the climate in our area is ever changing.

W. Kerr Scott Damn Education Center

Highlight: good for those who enjoy learning about nature

About: The education center informs visitors on aquatic resources, forestry resources, soil/water/air resources, wildlife resources, climate change, energy conservation, habitat conservation and pollinators.

Location: 499 Reservoir Rd, Wilkesboro, NC 28697

More: https://www.wilkescountytourism.com/WKS-EEC

YMCA Camp Harrison

Highlight: Good for those wanting a "cabin" adventure

About: YMCA Camp Harrison at Herring Ridge is an ecology, conference, and retreat center set in the Brushy Mountains of northwestern North Carolina that has been open since 2004. We have about 2,100 acres of very pristine land, surrounding our 140 acre private lake. We offer programming such as ecology classes, teambuilding, high/low ropes, canoeing, kayaking, and many more. Our facilities include a dining hall, chapel, and cabins which are all handicap accessible.

Location: 7901 South NC Highway 18 Boomer, NC United States 28606

More: https://www.ymcacharlotte.org/camps/camp-harrison

Yadkin River Greenway

Highlight: Good for those looking for an outdoor stroll

About: "Our mission is to enhance the quality of life by ensuring the creation of a riverside greenway that connects the major institutions and neighborhoods of our community."

Location of an access point: 717 W Main St, North Wilkesboro, NC 28659

More: https://www.yadkinrivergreenway.com/

Shelton Play Park at Cub Creek Park

Highlight: Good for those looking for an outdoor playground

About: Shelton Play Park is universally designed with experience in mind. We strive to create public spaces that appeal to all children and adults, regardless of their abilities. Everyone should play and recreate together.

Location: 206 S Bridge St, Wilkesboro, NC 28697

More: https://www.journalpatriot.com/news/new-area-of-park-named-for-shelton/article_d01fbc91-8122-5236-a919-93ac98a5a0da.html

Smoot Park

Highlight: Good for those looking for a pool or nice picnic spot

About: Smoot Park features a playground, basketball courts, picnic area and skateboard park. Covered Picnic area and pool are available to reserve for special occasions and parties. Contact Parks and Rec department for more accessibility information.

Location: 106 Chestnut St, North Wilkesboro, NC 28659

Contact: Nate Reavis at 336-667-7129 Ext. 3007

More: https://www.north-wilkesboro.com/159/Parks-and-Recreation

Leatherwood Mountains

Highlight: Good for those looking for adventure

About: Leatherwood Mountains offers a wide variety of amenities that keep people busy year-round. One of the most popular activities is horseback riding. We also offer on-site fishing, hiking, tennis, swimming, and more! Contact through website link below for more detailed information on accessibility and activities.

Location: 512 Meadow Rd, Ferguson, NC 28624

More: https://www.leatherwoodmountains.com/

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