Hurricane Helene recently swept through the southeastern United States, leaving a trail of destruction across Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. The state park systems in these states were hit hard, especially North Carolina. Some accounts describe the flooding being of biblical proportion. The states suffered significant damage to infrastructure, landscapes, and natural habitats. As cornerstones of recreation, conservation, and education, these parks play an essential role in the lives of millions of visitors each year. The storm’s impact underscores both their vulnerability to extreme weather and the importance of preserving these treasured spaces for future generations.
In the following sections, highlighted are some of the challenges faced by the state's park systems. These descriptions and photos convey the damage, impacts, and and share stories of resilience and recovery, illustrating the hard work of park staff, volunteers, and communities who are coming together to restore these vital public lands. We must be committed to protect and rebuild these cherished spaces.
Florida - Florida State Parks faced a challenging hurricane season, enduring the impacts of Helene, Milton, Rafael, and Debby. The Florida Park Service is diligently working to assess, repair, and reopen these parks. Several strike teams of park rangers are aiding in recovery efforts, addressing issues such as downed trees, flooding, severe coastal erosion, and significant sand accumulation. At the peak of the storms, 167 of 175 state parks were closed. Currently, several parks remain closed, with some anticipated to reopen as late as Spring/Summer 2025.
Georgia - Read how Park Rangers from around the state sprang into action in joint efforts with Game Wardens in the Law Enforcement Division, and Wildlife Techs in the Wildlife Resource Division.
North Carolina - State Parks Director Brian Strong provides information on post-Helene rescue and recovery efforts and the status of western state parks.
South Carolina - 28 of 48 State Parks were closed due to power outages and downed trees. Learn about the hard work of team members, the generous support of our partners, and the sincere love of our visitors who supported our recovery.
Tennessee - Read how David Crockett Birthplace State Park was significantly impacted by the historic flooding and see photos of the damage left behind.
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