Cliffs of the Neuse State Park
project type:
A Geologic Wonder
Located in Seven Springs, North Carolina near Goldsboro, Cliffs of the Neuse State Park boasts a geologic wonder for this part of the coastal plain. A seventy foot sandstone cliff towers above the banks of the Neuse River below, providing spectacular views as well as ample outdoor opportunities for visitors. Once home to Indians, and settlers, the Cliffs is now a popular destination for vacationers and campers.
Cultural History at the Cliffs
The exhibits at Cliffs of the Neuse detail the cultural history of the site as well as the geologic and natural history of this area. The Cultural History exhibits trace the history of the first Indians to live in the area through the Civil War, the early days of logging, the growth of Inns and Hotels in the area, and the beginnings of the State Park.
Unique Geologic History
The geologic history exhibits feature a model of the cliff that depicts how sediments laid down over millions of years created the deposits that can now be seen in the cliff face. Many of the fossils found in the deposits can be seen alongside a video that shows how the river cut through. Other displays help to show how springs, seismic activity and different soils and sediments help to shape this unique area.
Fresh and Colorful Designs for Kids
The most unique feature of the exhibits at the new visitor center is the Kids Area. Designed with fun, bright colors, oversized bird and animal illustrations, whimsical trees and hands-on opportunities, this new exhibit allows kids to learn through play. Kids can watch live ants in an ant farm while fishing out of a canoe, make their own bird out of illustrated shapes, watch birds and hornets fly overhead, and guess animals in their habitats. There’s also a tactile guessing game as well as a scat matching game.
A LEED Facility
The new visitor center at the park is a LEED building. This means that it uses non-polluting materials, sustainable building practices and energy-efficient fixtures and systems. The principles follow through to the exhibits as well. In addition to using recycled materials and low-VOC finishes in the exhibits, the Design Dimension team also recycled and reused some elements from exhibits that had been in use in the old visitor center at the Cliffs.
Design Dimension was responsible for the conceptual planning, design, construction detailing, and construction administration for this project, and is proud to have been part of this unique facility.