Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
RMC Sandhills State Forest encompasses approximately 9,300 acres of gently rolling sandhills terrain in south-central North Carolina. The forest features a landscape dominated by longleaf pines, wiregrass, and mixed hardwoods, providing critical habitat for species such as the red-cockaded woodpecker and gopher tortoise. Historically, this region was important for naval stores production and timber harvesting, but today it is managed primarily for conservation, recreation, and sustainable forestry practices. Visitors can enjoy a network of multi-use trails allowing hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The forest offers a peaceful setting for wildlife observation, with frequent sightings of deer, bobwhite quail, and a variety of migratory birds. RMC Sandhills also supports educational programs that highlight the ecosystem’s fire-dependent nature, demonstrating the importance of prescribed burns to maintain longleaf pine habitat. The forest protects several rare and threatened species, contributing significantly to regional biodiversity. Its proximity to Pinehurst and Southern Pines makes it accessible for day trips, while its quiet roads and trails offer solitude away from more crowded parks. The forest’s blend of recreation and natural resource management makes it a valuable outdoor destination within North Carolina’s Sandhills allowing visitors to connect with a unique ecological region.
