The Wire Pasture access point at Lumber River State Park reopened Aug. 21 after a $7.5 million renovation. Closed since 2020, the site had faced problems with illegal activity on private property accessed through park grounds, according to North Carolina State Parks and Recreation.
A new 3,000-square-foot visitor center showcases artwork from Lumbee members. Outside, visitors will find hiking trails, gathering spaces, canoes, and pavilions. Construction began in 2024 after the state conducted site assessments and archaeological surveys.
The renovation comes from the $2 billion Connect N.C. Bond, which voters approved in 2016. Brian Strong, the state parks and recreation director, said the Wire Pasture redo launches a long-term project to renovate Lumber River State Park. The park covers nearly 13,700 acres from Hoke County to near Mullins, South Carolina…