Raleigh Outdoor Activities
So many gardens, so little time! Raleigh's incredible lakes are like standing invitations to commune with nature any time you would like. As a matter of fact, the Greater Raleigh Parks and Gardens' unofficial motto is "Trees, Tees and PhDs's"! So whatever your plans when spending time here, make sure that taking a little while to enjoy Raleigh's natural amenities are near the top of your to-do list.
Regardless of whether you want to take it all in on your own or need a little assistance, the natural beauty and all that it has to offer you is on display over the 236 acres of
Blue Jay Point County Park. Picnic areas, play fields and playgrounds are just a few of the many featured attractions of this park located on the shores of Falls Lake in northern Wake County. So bring your sunglasses, sun block, and picnic basket to enjoy a great day in one of nature's finest displays.
Address: 3200 Pleasant Union Church Road, Raleigh, NC 27614 - MAP
Phone: (919) 870-4330
Web: www.wakegov.com
Durant Nature Park offers not only a chance to stroll the impressive five miles of trails, but you can also relax and take in a picnic lunch as well as the beautiful foliage that makes this park such a gem of natural beauty.
Address: 8105 Camp Durant Road, Raleigh, NC 27614 - MAP
Phone: (919) 870-2871
Web: www.raleighnc.gov/durant
The
Historic Oak View County Park combines some of the area's rich history with nature's finest attributes for a stunningly beautiful view all the way around. This antebellum farmstead has an 1855 Greek Revival house at its center, a cotton gin house museum and a rustic livestock barn, among other attractions. Aside from the picnic areas and playing fields, you can learn more by stopping in to the Farm History Center where the kids will enjoy playing (and learning) in the interactive "Farmer's Corner."
Address: 4028 Carya Drive, Raleigh, NC 27610 - MAP
Phone: (919) 250-1013
Web: www.wakegov.com/oakview
Instead of just relaxing by a lake, why not relax in it! That's precisely what you can do at
Lake Wheeler Park. Sure, there are spacious areas for picnicking and recreation, but you can also go fishing, canoeing, sailing and kayaking. If you need help, find it at the Waterfront Program Center.
Address: 6404 Lake Wheeler Road, Raleigh, NC 27603 - MAP
Phone: (919) 662-5704
Web: www.raleighnc.gov/lake-wheeler
Nothing like enjoying some of Raleigh's most picturesque nature from behind a pair of canoe oars. See it for yourself along 17 miles of the Neuse River on the inviting
Canoe Trail. The facility offers five canoe launches and it is all provided by the Parks and Recreation Department who also offer trained personnel to help if you need it.
Address: 7401 Wade Avenue, Raleigh, NC 27607 - MAP
Phone: (919) 831-6855
Web: www.raleighnc.gov/adventure-canoe-sites
If man's best friend is part of your family, he needs to get out and enjoy some recreation just like you do. Take your dog to the
Oakwood Dog Park for a great game of fetch or just let him run around and enjoy the thrill of being outside. There is a large dog area as well as a small dog area for older dogs or those that may be anxious around larger dogs. Either way, the exercise and fun will benefit both dog and owner!
Address: 910 Brookside Drive, Raleigh, NC 27604 - MAP
Phone: (919) 890-3292
Web: www.oakwooddogpark.com
Shelley Lake is a 53-acre lake/park combination that features two miles of paved, scenic greenway trails that also include exercise stations along the way. Enjoy fishing, canoeing, sailing and row-boating on the lake; there is a fee for boat rentals. Come out and enjoy a brisk walk or maybe a romantic boat ride and stay and watch the sun set with your family or that special someone.
Address: 1400 W. Millbrook Road, Raleigh, NC 27614 - MAP
Phone: (919) 420-2331
Web: www.raleighnc.gov/shelley-lake
