The park is situated on a peninsula within the Shearon Harris Reservoir, which is a cooling lake for a nuclear power plant.
It hosts an official disc golf course that is highly rated in the regional circuit.
The park includes an 18th-century homesite reconstruction reflecting early agrarian life in the region.
It contains a designated youth fishing pond separate from the main reservoir.
The mountain bike trail system was developed and is maintained in partnership with local cycling organizations.
The park grounds serve as a protected habitat for various Piedmont wildlife species, including deer and wild turkey.
Harris Lake County Park covers 680 acres on a peninsula extending into the Shearon Harris Reservoir in New Hill, North Carolina. The park features over 9 miles of mountain bike trails ranging from beginner to advanced difficulty. Visitors have access to a stocked fishing pond alongside the main lake, which is known for bass and crappie. The grounds include dedicated picnic shelters, playgrounds, and a primitive camping area. An educational garden showcases native plants and local pollinators. Equestrian trails wind through the forested sections of the property. The park serves as a hub for both passive recreation and intensive outdoor sports.
The elevated overlook point at the end of the peninsula providing panoramic views of the reservoir.
Download the trail map ahead of time as cellular service can be unreliable in deeper wooded sections.
Bring bug spray if visiting during humid summer months, as wooded trails attract mosquitoes.
Check the park's online trail status page before visiting, as bike trails frequently close following heavy rain.
Attempting advanced mountain bike trails if you are a beginner, and forgetting to verify trail status after rainfall.
Park trails may close temporarily following significant rainfall to prevent erosion.
Leash all pets at all times, pack out all trash, and yield to riders on mountain bike trails.
