North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources

The N.C. Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) manages, promotes, and enhances the things that people love about North Carolina – its diverse arts and culture, rich history, and spectacular natural areas. Through its programs, the department enhances education, stimulates economic development, improves public health, expands accessibility, and strengthens community resiliency. The department manages over 100 locations across the state, including 27 historic sites, seven history museums, two art museums, five science museums, four aquariums, 35 state parks, four recreation areas, dozens of state trails and natural areas, the N.C. Zoo, the State Library, the State Archives, the N.C. Arts Council, the African American Heritage Commission, the American Indian Heritage Commission, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Office of State Archaeology, the Highway Historical Markers program, the N.C. Land and Water Fund, and the Natural Heritage Program. Whether you’re looking to explore a [state park](http://www.ncparks.gov/), visit a [museum exhibit](http://www.ncdcr.gov/things-to-do/museums), find a [fun family event](http://www.ncdcr.gov/things-to-do/place-finder), or step back in time at an [historic site](https://historicsites.nc.gov/), you’re at the right place! If you’re interested in discovering your family’s genealogy, exploring North Carolina history, or experiencing our state's rich natural beauty, we can help you with that too! Our mission is to improve the quality of life in North Carolina by creating opportunities to experience excellence in the arts, history, libraries and nature in North Carolina by: - stimulating learning - inspiring creativity - preserving the state’s history - conserving the state’s natural heritage - encouraging recreation and cultural heritage tourism - promoting economic development Our vision is to be the leader in using the state’s natural and cultural resources to build the social, cultural, educational and economic future of North Carolina.