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Ride, Eat, Repeat—Places to Eat Near North Carolina Ride Parks

By Sara Wines | Behind The Wheel on August 31, 2022
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North Carolina is a favorite destination for off-road enthusiasts because of its incredible trails, but did you know there’s no shortage of delicious places to eat near North Carolina ride parks? A day of hard riding works up an appetite, and when you’re in a state known for its BBQ, you shouldn’t skip the local grub.

Consider this your guide to all the best restaurants in North Carolina—around our favorite ride parks, of course. Whether you’re a hungry rider just looking for a quick bite or a true foodie, North Carolina has something for you close to all its top off-roading parks.

A close up of fish and chips with coleslaw from Forager's Canteen, one of the best restaurants near ride parks in North Carolina.
North Carolina is a paradise for riding enthusiasts and foodies alike. We’ve listed a few great places to eat near ride parks in North Carolina. We know you’ll find a new favorite.
Photo by Forager’s Canteen

Table of contents

  1. Badin Lake OHV Trail Complex
  2. Black Swamp OHV Area
  3. Brown Mountain OHV Trail
  4. Brushy Mountain Motor Sports Park
  5. Busco Beach and ATV Park
  6. Cape Fear ATV/MX Park
  7. Carolina Backwoods ATV
  8. Deep Creek ATV Park
  9. Off the Grid Mountain Adventures
  10. Outback ATV/MX Park
  11. Wayehutta OHV Trail System
  12. Fresh Cooked Meal > Sack Lunch

1. Badin Lake OHV Trail Complex (Uwharrie OHV Trail System)

Badin Lake OHV Trail Complex is located in the beautiful Uwharrie National Forrest outside Asheboro, NC. It’s known for its remote location, diversity of trail difficulties, and gorgeous fall foliage. When you’re done tearing it up out in the forestry, head to one of these three awesome restaurants to quench your thirst and fill your belly.

 Sweet Tea GrilleBigfoot’s Bar and GrillScallywag’s Bar and Grill
Miles from Ride Park17815.5
Popular OptionsCheese dip, chicken tenders, tacosBurgers, pizza, wingsBBQ ribs, seafood, sandwiches
Google Ratings4.54.74.4
Reviews“This place is a hidden gem! Great folks who run it. Good food. Best homemade chips and salsa! Recommend!”“Awesome place to go after a day on the road or the water!”“Great setting on Badin Lake. Food was good and service was excellent. Live music made it even better.”
Delicious Philly cheesesteak sandwich and potato salad with billiards tables in the background.
Bigfoot’s Bar and Grill is a local favorite for a reason. Hot food, cold beer, plenty of pool tables, and regular karaoke make this joint a #1 pick.
Photo by Bigfoot’s Bar and Grill

2. Black Swamp OHV Area

Black Swamp is a wetland located in the Croatan National Forest in eastern North Carolina. It’s one of the only true coastal forests in the east and is definitely worth a visit—you won’t get many opportunities to ride somewhere like this.

Exploring the swamp will definitely work up an appetite. Don’t head home hungry! Check out 3 of the best restaurants around nearby New Bern, North Carolina instead.

 Farmer’s KitchenGrilling BuddiesBoka Nina’s Pacific Fusion
Miles from Ride Park9.116.713.9
Popular OptionsBreakfast, BBQ sandwich, mac & cheeseBurgers, chicken and dumplings, browniesHuli huli chicken, lumpia, pacific tacos
Google Ratings4.34.54.8
Reviews“No matter what ya get it’s gonna be good! I myself only get the hotdogs and they are the BEST ever! My fiance loves their mac and cheese!”“My spouse and I went in for a burger. It was the best burger I’ve had in a VERY LONG TIME.““One of the few restaurants in Havelock that is ‘slap your Mama good!’ The Boka has my business!“
Boka Nina's signature marinated and grilled chicken on a cutting board with a knife. It looks so good!
Boka Nina’s Pacific Fusion is one of the most highly rated restaurants on our list! Their dedication to their customers and passion for cooking make this restaurant worth a special trip if you’re visiting Black Swamp OHV.
Photo by Boka Nina’s Pacific Fusion

3. Brown Mountain OHV Trail

Brown Mountain is a favorite for Jeep, dirt bike, and UTV owners. The mix of rocks and mud keeps things exciting year after year.

The trailhead is set deep in the mountains, so you’ll have a little bit of a haul (20 minutes minimum) to get to a restaurant. However, we think any of these three delicious North Carolina restaurants will be worth the trip.

 Abele’s Family RestaurantBoulevard BarbequeBones Jones Burgers and Butchery
Miles from Ride Park16.618.214.5
Popular OptionsWings, burgers, salad barBrisket, wings, hush puppiesSteaks, fried cheese curds, Bones’ Burger
Google Ratings4.54.54.3
Reviews“Ultra friendly service with a relaxed feel. Don’t expect fancy but do expect a warm feeling entering this restaurant.”“Some of the best BBQ and brisket I’ve ever had. We drove five hours to try this restaurant and we weren’t disappointed.““Their menu is small, but that’s because they focus on making every single option as well as they can, and their ingredients are locally sourced.“
Beef brisket thinly sliced next to a beautiful whipped banana pudding topped with Nilla wafers.
You CANNOT miss out on North Carolina-style BBQ when you’re at Brown Mountain OHV! Swing by Boulevard Barbeque for some delicious grub.
Photo by Boulevard Barbeque

4. Brushy Mountain Motor Sports Park

If you’re ready for a challenge, head to Brushy Mountain. They have more than 100 combined miles of trails and are adding new ones all the time. You’re sure to work up an appetite on these adventurous rides.

When you’ve finally made your way out of the wilderness, check out these great places to eat near one of the best ride parks in North Carolina—they’re some of the best restaurants in North Carolina for that “mom’s cooking” vibe.

 Crossroads GrillApple City BBQTeens and Deens Country Kitchen
Miles from Ride Park12.812.98.1
Popular OptionsBurgers, chicken casserole, persimmon puddingPulled pork, BBQ ribs, fried picklesCatfish, hillbilly nachos, burgers
Google Ratings4.84.74.5
Reviews“Just tasted the Pig Pickin’ Cake for the first time and I couldn’t eat the cake fast enough. I about ate the styrofoam container it came in too— it was so good.““This is my favorite BBQ joint in the surrounding area… We drive two hours just to get here!““This is my absolute favorite place right now. I have had four different plates and they are all each better than the last. You have got to get to this place and eat—and I mean now.”
Teens and Deens Country Kitchen's famous catfish filets with mashed potatoes, baked beans, and hush puppies on a paper plate. No wonder they're one of our favorite restaurants in North Carolina.
Teens and Deens Country Kitchen is a little off the beaten path, but you shouldn’t skip out on their catfish fry and hush puppies.
Photo by Teens and Deens Country Kitchen

5. Busco Beach and ATV Park

Did you think you had to head out west for sand riding? No way. Busco Beach offers a one-of-a-kind combination of sand and mud that’s sure to please every off-road enthusiast.

Wrap up the ride and head over to grab some grub at some of the best restaurants in Goldsboro, North Carolina. No worries—they’re used to sweeping up sand and mud at closing time.

 Bonfire’s Tortilla BarWilber’s BarbecueBrewmasters Goldsboro
Miles from Ride Park9.711.48.4
Popular OptionsBurritos, tacos, nachosPulled pork, hush puppies, ribsReuben sandwich, pizza, wings
Google Ratings4.74.34.5
Reviews“I don’t usually leave reviews, but this was the best food I’ve had in a long time. Staff was very sweet, very professional. Food was affordable, nice portion sizes.““Some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet, serving up excellent whole hog BBQ, cooked the real way over wood coals.““Great beer selection, really good personal pizzas delectable—amazing even. Wings with bones have a crunchy exterior and a soft meaty interior, and top it off a welcoming ambiance.”
A panini cut in half featuring roasted turkey, bacon, cheese, tomato and lettuce. It looks crunchy and flavorful.
Brewmasters is a quick drive from Busco Beach ATV Park. With 20 beers on tap, we don’t think you can go wrong with this locally-owned brewpub.
Photo by Brewmasters

6. Cape Fear ATV/MX Park

Cape Fear is known and loved for its muddy bottoms and sandy trails. Many riders return with their whole families year after year. These restaurants are favorites for a delicious meal after burning calories behind the wheel (or handlebars).

 All American GriddleMelvin’s Hamburgers and HotdogsCindy’s Restaurant
Miles from Ride Park6.223.3
Popular OptionsChicken salad, fried green beans, chicken tendersBurgers, hotdogs, pound cakeCatfish, potato casserole, sweet potato souffle
Google Ratings4.64.54.8
Reviews“The food and the folks are great. Highly recommend you stop in the next time you’re in the area!““This place is a MUST TRY!! Excellent all around! Great old fashioned made burgers and sweet tea.““I can’t overstate how good the food is. I have written many reviews but Cindy’s is getting a 5 +++++ star and should have a special place on here for a 10 star.”
Melvin's is one of the best places to eat near ride parks in North Carolina. They've been slinging burgers and hotdogs since 1938. This image shows one of their delicious hamburgers and a glass of sweet tea.
There’s a reason Melvin’s has been around since 1938. If you see a line out the door or even around the block, don’t be intimidated—they have speedy service down to an absolute science. Bring cash!
Photo by Steve Dennis via Google

7. Carolina Backwoods ATV

You’ll find Carolina Backwoods ATV about 40 minutes north of Myrtle Beach, SC—it’s a perfect outing for the family. Carolina Backwoods has trails suitable for beginners and old pros.

If you’re a well-seasoned rider (or a newbie!) looking for some equally well-seasoned food, check out these delicious, locally-owned spots to grab a bite.

 Crow Creek RestaurantBurg-Dog GrillPurple Onion Cafe
Miles from Ride Park3.215.614.8
Popular OptionsClub sandwich, Carolina burgerBurgers, hot dogs, apple piePurple onion club, fried green tomato BLT
Google Ratings4.54.84.5
Reviews“Absolutely great place to eat delicious food and friendly waiting staff.”“Best hamburgers and hot dogs anywhere. We love going to Burg-Dog grill. Last time I was there our burgers were on the table before my wife returned from the drink machine!““What a great find! It was so good that we came back for breakfast and again for lunch. The food is outstanding!!“
Eggs benedict with home fries the Purple Onion Cafe, about 40 minutes from Myrtle Beach. That means the Purple Onion is not only one of the best places to eat near ride parks in North Carolina, but a great spot for South Carolinians to consider too.
With fresh, made-to-order options, you can’t go wrong with the Purple Onion Cafe for any meal of the day.
Photo by Purple Onion Cafe

8. Deep Creek ATV Park

Mud bogging can really get your heart rate up. All that excitement will get your stomach growling too! Check out some of the best places to eat near ride parks in North Carolina close to one of our favorite places to get dirty—Deep Creek ATV Park.

 Stachia’s Fully Loaded Grill-Spring LakePeaden’s Seafood & CateringThe Gumbo Shack
Miles from Ride Park16.78.812.3
Popular OptionsPhilly cheesesteak, fried rice, wingsFried catfish, hush puppies, BBQPo boy, bread pudding, gumbo
Google Ratings4.54.44.8
Reviews“Amazing food. My favorite thing was the Cajun season catfish—it was mouthwatering. Made me feel like I was family and right at home.”“The food is delicious. Customer service is A+. The fish is fresh and tasty. They filet fish like no other. Love the hush puppies. Top five restaurant in Fayetteville. Love it!”“A true hidden gem of Fayetteville. Chef Audi is an amazing chef creating authentic New Orleans cuisine. The portions are generous and the food delivers with every bite. This place is special.“
North Carolinians love their hush puppies. These hush puppies from the Gumbo shack are fried to perfection and topped with fresh parsley. We knew we had to feature Gumbo Shack as one of the best places to eat near ride parks in North Carolina.
Get the flavors of New Orleans in North Carolina at one of our favorite restaurants, The Gumbo Shack. The hush puppies are mouthwatering and so is the gumbo!
Photo by The Gumbo Shack

9. Off the Grid Mountain Adventures

Located in the far northwestern corner of North Carolina outside of Banner Elk, you’ll find Off the Grid Mountain Adventures. This is a heavily wooded trail system with lots of mud and hills. It’s perfect for riders that don’t own their own machines since they provide your ride (and personal rigs aren’t allowed).

There’s also some awesome grub fewer than 3 miles away from the trailhead. You’ll be pleased as punch about the variety of cuisines in such a rural area.

 Highlander BBQAmericano Steak HouseSmoky Mountain Bakers
Miles from Ride Park21.81.6
Popular OptionsPig wings, pulled pork, mac and cheesePrime rib, Hawaiian ribeye, sirloinPizza, cookies, cinnamon rolls
Google Ratings4.84.74.8
Reviews“Great atmosphere for BBQ. Huge servings, friendly service, and great prices.”“Our meal was perfect. The sirloin was cooked perfectly to order, the baked potato was excellent, and my 7-year-old devoured his burger and fries.”“We were recommended by Off the Grid Adventures for pizza and it did not disappoint! The pizza was delicious! Also tried the baked items. The almond cookies were delicious.“
A perfectly grilled steak, loaded baked potato, and a side salad from one of the best places to eat near a ride park in North Carolina, Americano Steak House.
If you’re craving protein after a long day of riding, Americano Steak House is the pick. Every steak is juicy and the baked potatoes are always soft and fluffy.
Photo by Americano Steak House

10. Outback ATV/MX Park

If you’re looking for some serious mud-bogging shenanigans, Outback ATV/MX Park may be just the place for you. There are more than enough trails and terrain types for riders of all skill levels to get up to some mischief.

You’re sure to crave a tasty treat after pulling your buddies out of mud holes all day. Luckily there are some delicious hidden gems just a few miles from the ride park for you to get your fill.

 The Chicken ShackFore’s Family RestaurantJesse’s Pizza & Hot Subs
Miles from Ride Park3.54.34.1
Popular OptionsWings, tenders, onion ringsBurgers, desserts, broccoli and cheddar soupSteak and cheese sub, fries, wings
Google Ratings4.74.84.4
Reviews“Five stars all across the board. Best chicken wings in town. Hands down. Will go there again and again.”“Delicious food at a competitive price. Probably the best burgers in Laurinburg honestly. Staff was very friendly and service was excellent.““All-in-all, a convenient spot with great feel-good food. Never disappointed.”
A very well fried piece of chicken breast with lettuce, pickle, and sauce on a toasted bun. It's the ideal chicken sandwich and that's why we think the Chicken Shack is one of the best places to eat near ride parks in North Carolina.
Chicken Shack is a family-owned chain that’s been serving delicious food since 1965. You can’t go wrong with a meal from any of their restaurants, especially if you don’t have one back at home.
Photo by Chicken Shack

11. Wayehutta OHV Trail System

The Wayehutta OHV Trail System has that densely forested, super-remote feel without actually being too far from some great restaurants. After you’re done exploring the rocky creekbeds and muddy trails, grab something tasty for dinner from one of these local favorites.

 The Cat’s TableHaywood SmokehouseForagers Canteen
Miles from Ride Park5.51212
Popular OptionsBurgers, tacos, quesadillasBrunswick stew, pecan pie, collard greensShrimp and grits, sweet potato tater tots, apple butter
Google Ratings5.04.84.5
Reviews“I love this local place and am a frequent visitor. The food is awesome and the staff is very warm and welcoming. The price and the quality of the food is great.”“If you like pork, beef brisket, chicken, ribs or sausage BBQ, this is the place. They offer a good selection of sauces and the sides offered are excellent. Dessert is not an afterthought. We were very pleased and will return.““Absolutely blown away by not only the service which was amazing but the food and plating was 5 star! I cannot wait to go back. Dillsboro is such a wonderful small town and finding a unique gem of a restaurant is extra special.”
A beautiful spread of decadent foods from Forager's Canteen. Nearly ever plate has a large edible orchid and it's plated so well as to look more like art than food. That's why its one of the best places to eat near ride parks in North Carolina.
If you’re in need of some pampering after a few days of being caked in mud, Forager’s Canteen is just the place. Their menu is southern-meets-gourmet and is sure to please every palate.
Photo by Forager’s Canteen

Fresh Cooked Meal > Sack Lunch

The only thing we love (almost) as much as a good ride is a good meal. Instead of choking down soggy sack lunches from the cooler, hit up one of the best places to eat near North Carolina ride parks. You’ll be glad you did!

We love to see you repping SuperATV on the trail or in your favorite North Carolina BBQ joint. If we missed your favorite spot for a snack, let us know so we can add it to the list.

A delicious plate of ribs, mac and cheese, baked beans, and hush puppies from Boulevard Barbeque, one of the best places to eat near ride parks in North Carolina.
You can never go wrong with BBQ—North Carolina style, of course.
Photo by Boulevard Barbeque
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