The park was originally purchased by Julian Price in the 1940s to serve as a private retreat for his employees.
Price Lake was constructed as a man-made feature following the establishment of the park to provide recreational water access.
The Tanawha Trail was specifically designed to provide a low-impact hiking route through the ecologically sensitive terrain beneath Grandfather Mountain.
The park serves as a critical stopover for migratory songbirds due to its diverse vegetation zones.
The elevation of the park grounds exceeds 3,000 feet, resulting in temperatures significantly cooler than the surrounding piedmont regions.
Julian Price Memorial Park is a 4,200-acre recreational area located along the Blue Ridge Parkway at Milepost 297. It features the 47-acre Price Lake, which offers canoeing and trout fishing opportunities. The park serves as a primary access point for the Tanawha Trail, a 13.5-mile path traversing the southern slopes of Grandfather Mountain. Visitors can utilize 197 developed campsites, including both tent and RV sites. The park was established through land donated by the heirs of Julian Price, the former president of Jefferson Standard Life Insurance Company. Its topography consists primarily of high-elevation meadows and secondary-growth forests. The area supports diverse wildlife, including black bears, deer, and various migratory bird species. The park remains the largest developed camping area on the entire Blue Ridge Parkway.
The wooden footbridge spanning the inlet of Price Lake during sunrise.
Bring polarized sunglasses to better observe trout and aquatic life in the clear waters of Price Lake.
Check the Blue Ridge Parkway's official status page before departure, as road closures are common during winter due to ice and snow.
Utilize the designated kayak and canoe launch area rather than the lake perimeter to minimize erosion of the soft banks.
Do not attempt to swim in Price Lake, as it is restricted to preserve water quality and ensure visitor safety.
Campgrounds operate seasonally from late spring through late autumn; access to the Parkway road itself may be restricted during winter months.
Practice Leave No Trace principles; keep dogs on a leash at all times; do not feed wildlife.
