Jan 26, 2023
Nature Date Ideas Near Oxford, NC
Photo by Amber Kipp on Unsplash.

Whether you are looking for a nearby destination to escape the urban bustle and enjoy some quality time in nature or a sprawling nature reserve to go on an off-road adventure in a Chevy, visiting a state park is always a great way to recharge your batteries after a long week. If you are searching for nearby places to visit, here are three wonderful state parks you can visit for a nature date near Oxford.

Discover Nature With Your Chevy: 3 State Parks Near Oxford, NC

Occoneechee State Park

Located about 25 miles north of the Oxford city center and right across the Virginia state line, Occoneechee State Park is a beautiful nature reserve that offers excellent opportunities for fishing, camping, hiking, and horseback riding. Spanning an area of over 2,700 acres, this state park sits along the banks of the Roanoke River and features some of the most scenic and photogenic landscapes in the region.

Getting from downtown Oxford to the entrance of Occoneechee State Park takes a little over half an hour by car, driving along route US-15. Once you make your way here, make sure to check out some of the different hiking and biking trails that crisscross the area, as well as the beautiful picnic spots along the riverbanks and the swimming beaches at Buggs Island Lake.


William B. Umstead State Park

Covering an area of about 5,600 acres, William B. Umstead State Park is another popular weekend destination among families and groups of friends from all over North Carolina. Established in 1937, this sprawling nature reserve boasts one of the most extensive networks of hiking, bridle, and bike trails in the region, as well as photogenic viewpoints that offer great views of the Raleigh and Durham skylines.

Located just 38 miles south of downtown Oxford, William B. Umstead State Park can be reached in about 40 minutes by car along route I-85. Once you make your way here, some of the spots you should check out include Umstead Park Lake, Sycamore Creek, and Reedy Creek Lake. Popular activities in the area include boating, camping, picnicking, hiking, and wildlife watching.


Staunton River State Park

Featuring woodlands, meadows, and a river shoreline in a territory that sprawls over 2,400 acres, Staunton River State Park is another fantastic destination for Oxford residents and anyone wanting to explore the region. Located just over 50 miles northwest of the city center, this nature reserve can be reached in a little over one hour by car along State Highway 96.

If you are thinking of buying a new or used vehicle to explore nature with you date , visit us today at Boyd Automotive Oxford! Check out our fantastic models, learn about our convenient financing plans, and take home a shiny new set of wheels.