Outdoor Fun

3 Days, Plenty of Outdoor Adventure

The Heart of North Carolina may not get the outdoor recreation buzz of the mountains or the coast, but it absolutely should. Nestled in the Piedmont, Randolph County packs in lakes, rivers, hiking trails, disc golf, horseback riding, zip lines, championship golf, and more – all within a remarkably compact region.

Friday: Golf and the Nineteenth Hole

Roll into Archdale off I-85 and check into one of the Marriott, Hilton, or Holiday Inn properties right on Main Street. Spend your afternoon playing a round of golf on the rolling hills at Holly Ridge Golf Links. Stay awhile longer for dinner, drinks, live music and simulator golf at The Bunker Lounge.

What outdoor activities are available in Randolph County, NC?

Randolph County offers a surprisingly wide range of outdoor recreation options, including hiking and rail trails in Franklinville, kayaking and boating on Randleman Lake, disc golf and paved trail running at Creekside Park in Archdale, ziplining and axe throwing at Kersey Valley Attractions, and fishing at Ramseur Lake. The region sits at the edge of the Uwharrie National Forest, adding even more trail options just to the south.

Saturday: Trails, Orchards, and Axe Throwing?

Wake up early and head to Creekside Park in Archdale, one of only four North Carolina locations on the international parkrun network, where a free community 5k happens every Saturday morning. (TIP: Register in advance if you want to receive a time for your run!) Fuel up with a chicken biscuit and hashbrowns from Biscuitville, and then make the short drive to Kersey Valley Attractions, one of the premier outdoor and adventure destinations in the Piedmont. Year-round activities include axe throwing, laser tag, ziplining, and bomb bowling – choose your adventure!

Is Kersey Valley open year-round?

Yes, Kersey Valley Attractions in the Heart of North Carolina operates year-round, with activities including ziplining, axe throwing, laser tag, and escape rooms. Kersey Valley also has seasonal attractions, including its award-winning Spookywoods Haunted Attraction, Maize Adventure, and Christmas Experience. It’s one of the most versatile outdoor adventure destinations in the Piedmont.

Sunday: On the Water

Sunday morning, get your caffeine fix from The Wet Whistle Co. in Archdale and then make for Randleman Lake. With more than 100 miles of scenic shoreline, the reservoir is tailor-made for fishing, boating, canoeing, and kayaking. Boat launch fees, kayak rentals, and fishing fees are very affordable, which will leave plenty of budget for a delicious brunch at The Wild Onion in Randleman, with all-you-can-eat sides, and free dessert! Before hitting the road home, end your outdoor weekend with a short hike along the Deep River State Trail (and maybe even cast a line out at Worthville Beach), or take a leisurely walk along the nature trail at Stout Street Park.

Can you kayak or fish on Randleman Lake?

Absolutely. Randleman Lake offers more than 100 miles of scenic shoreline and is open to fishing, boating, sailing, and kayaking. It’s one of the most accessible water recreation destinations in Randolph County, NC, and a highlight of any outdoor-focused visit to the Heart of North Carolina.