As one of the newest state parks in North Carolina, Haw River has limited recreational opportunities.

Haw River State Park currently houses the Summit Environmental Education Center and is located off North Carolina Highway 150 in Browns Summit.

Environmental education is the central focus at Haw River State Park.

It was formerly a retreat center owned and operated by the Episcopal Diocese of North Carolina, who sold the property to the state.

There are eight conference rooms, a cafeteria and indoor and outdoor recreational facilities with a six acre (0.02 km2) lake and hiking trails.