Nature Adventures in Durham

Waller Family Farm, located in Durham, is a working farm offering a variety of fresh, locally grown produce, including strawberries, honey, eggs, and flowers. During the season, visitors can pick their own produce directly from the fields. The farm also sells homemade goods such as pound cake and strawberry jam. Established in 1943, Waller Family Farm has shifted its focus from tobacco to strawberries, while still maintaining livestock. The farm remains a family-operated business, and the farm’s owners encourage customers to check for updates on weather and availability before visiting.

• 5.2 mi away

• 5030 Kerley Road, Durham, NC 27705

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The Piedmont Wildlife Center in Durham features outdoor raptor exhibits and offers educational programs focused on wildlife conservation in its natural park setting.

• 6.8 mi away

• 364 Leigh Farm Rd., Durham, NC, 27707

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The North Carolina Botanical Garden inspires conservation and appreciation of plants through its gardens and programs, promoting sustainable relationships between people and nature.

• 10 mi away

• 100 Old Mason Farm Rd., Chapel Hill, NC, 27517

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Breadbox Farm is an urban homestead and rabbitry located in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. The farm specializes in raising high-quality Netherland Dwarf rabbits, known for their excellent temperament, and is a member of both the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) and the American Netherland Dwarf Rabbit Club (ANDRC). The farm also focuses on sustainable living practices, providing educational resources on topics like rabbit care, nutrition, and health. It offers a range of services including kid’s classes, events, and the adoption of rabbits as companion animals. Breadbox Farm promotes responsible pet ownership and the benefits of a human-animal relationship.

• 10.5 mi away

• 338 Wesley Dr Chapel Hill, NC

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Escape to William B. Umstead State Park, a natural haven minutes from downtown Raleigh. This urban oasis features extensive hiking and multi-use trails weaving through pristine forest. Three manmade lakes provide excellent fishing opportunities, while multiple picnic areas and camping facilities offer various outdoor recreation options. The historic Maple Hill Lodge provides a unique rustic overnight experience in a serene natural setting.

• 11 mi away

• 8801 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh, NC, 27617

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Phillips Farm of Cary is a popular family-friendly destination offering seasonal activities and attractions. The farm is well-known for its U-pick strawberries, corn mazes, and family events throughout the year.

• 11.8 mi away

• 6800 Good Hope Church Rd, Cary, NC 27519

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Lake Crabtree County Park provides 215 acres of outdoor recreation. Enjoy trails, boating, fishing, and picnicking. Rent kayaks or pedal boats, explore historic farm ruins, or try geocaching. With accessible fishing piers and fun crafts, this park is a must-visit for all ages.

• 11.9 mi away

• 1400 Aviation Parkway, Morrisville, NC, 27560

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The StoryWalk® Project invites families to enjoy children's books while exploring nature. Featured at several Wake County park locations, StoryWalk® displays pages of a book along a park path, creating an interactive and educational experience. Visitors can engage in this self-paced activity while walking and enjoying the outdoors. Each month, different books are highlighted at various parks, making each visit a unique adventure for kids and families.

• 11.9 mi away

• 1400 Aviation Pkwy, Morrisville, NC 27560

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This Raleigh park features two rubber surface playgrounds and scenic nature trails that wind through the park, which includes two small ponds. With a playground designed for children aged 2-12, this park offers a peaceful and enjoyable outdoor experience for families.

• 11.9 mi away

• 12804 Strickland Road, Raleigh, NC, 27613

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Escape to tranquility at Falls Lake State Recreation Area, spanning 26,000 acres of pristine woodland surrounding a 12,000-acre lake. This outdoor paradise offers seven distinct recreation areas perfect for camping, boating, swimming, and hiking. The park features segments of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail and provides excellent opportunities for environmental education. Modern campground facilities accommodate various camping styles, with nightly rates starting at $26.

• 12.1 mi away

• 13304 Creedmoor Rd., Wake Forest, NC, 27587

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Lake Michie Boathouse is located within Lake Michie Park and Marina in Bahama, NC, offering a range of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and picnic areas. Visitors can enjoy largemouth bass fishing and rent motorboats, canoes, and kayaks to explore the scenic lake. The facility features ADA-accessible amenities, such as a boathouse, dock, and canoe/kayak launch. The lake is open seasonally from mid-March to early November and provides a peaceful environment for outdoor recreation. Additionally, campsites are available in the nearby Spruce Pine Lodge and Holly Grove areas for those seeking a more immersive nature experience.

• 12.5 mi away

• 2802 Bahama Road Bahama, NC 27503

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Spanning 37 acres, Crabtree Creek Nature Park is a wooded wetland area with a large multi-purpose field and parking area for informal recreation. It’s the perfect spot for enjoying nature in an accessible setting.

• 12.8 mi away

• 151 Keybridge Drive, Morrisville, NC, 27560

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Discover this comprehensive city park offering diverse recreational opportunities for all ages. The facility features modern woodchip playgrounds, indoor and outdoor courts for multiple sports, and professional batting cages. The community center serves as a focal point for neighborhood activities, while the baseball field and batting cages welcome aspiring athletes. Public access is available on a first-come basis, coordinated with youth league schedules.

• 13.4 mi away

• 7921 Ray Road, Raleigh, NC, 27613

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Blue Jay Point County Park, located on the scenic shores of Falls Lake, offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors of all ages. The park features playgrounds, hiking trails, fishing, environmental education programs, and a natural play area. Families can enjoy picnicking, geocaching, or exploring the park’s gardens, while young adventurers can experience the Go Ape Treetop Junior courses for an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

• 14.6 mi away

• 3200 Pleasant Union Church Road, Raleigh, NC, 27614

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Explore the park's beautiful natural spaces, ideal for birdwatching and observing local wildlife. The park offers amenities such as a picnic area and walking trails for a relaxing outdoor experience.

• 15.4 mi away

• 5125 Berkeley Street, Raleigh, NC, 27612

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For over 30 years, this locally owned gemstone panning facility has been a family-friendly destination. Enjoy gemstone panning, a playground, and a mineral cave for digging—all included in the experience. You may even encounter friendly goats and other animals during your visit.

• 16.1 mi away

• 1823 NC HWY 55 West, Cary, NC, 27519

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Prairie Ridge offers a nature-rich environment, featuring a native plant garden, an arboretum, ponds, and trails through both prairie and forest areas. The park also hosts a Nature PlaySpace for children, where nature-based activities like Nature Stories and PlayDays take place. With opportunities for citizen science participation, Prairie Ridge is a hub for learning and outdoor discovery. Visitors can also explore the Planet Walk, a scaled model of the solar system along the park’s trails.

• 16.3 mi away

• 1671 Gold Star Drive, Raleigh, NC, 27607

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The JC Raulston Arboretum showcases one of the Southeast's most diverse plant collections, specializing in species suited to North Carolina’s Piedmont region. It's a must-visit for gardeners, researchers, and anyone who appreciates vibrant landscapes.

• 17.8 mi away

• 4415 Beryl Road, Raleigh, NC, 27606

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Lake Johnson Park offers a perfect blend of recreation and natural beauty. This stunning facility features both paved and natural surface trails, seasonal boat rentals, and designated fishing areas with rod rentals available. Visitors can enjoy the innovative QR Fit Trail, hammock stations along the greenway, and the adjacent Lake Johnson Pool complex complete with spray ground and lap swimming areas.

• 18.6 mi away

• 5863 Jaguar Park Dr, Raleigh, NC, 27606

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Raleigh Little Theatre, founded in the 1930s, offers year-round performances in its two indoor theaters and outdoor amphitheater. In addition to theater productions, the site includes a picnic area, open play space, a rose garden, gazebo, and arbor, providing a relaxing environment for theatergoers and park visitors alike.

• 19.1 mi away

• 301 Pogue Street, Raleigh, NC, 27607

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Durant Nature Preserve provides a variety of educational and recreational opportunities, including hiking trails, discovery backpacks, bird and butterfly gardens, and lakes for fishing. The park’s 237 acres are home to a rich diversity of plants and wildlife. Visitors can enjoy year-round programs, or simply explore the serene natural beauty of the preserve's trails and gardens.

• 19.2 mi away

• 8305 Camp Durant Rd, Raleigh, NC, 27614

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Discover Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, a magnificent outdoor destination featuring seven access points across Chatham County. The park offers over 1,000 diverse campsites, excellent boating facilities, and pristine swimming areas. Home to a thriving bald eagle population, the park provides unique wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors enjoy comprehensive amenities including boat rentals, picnic shelters, and educational facilities. Seasonal entrance fees apply, with free off-peak access.

• 19.3 mi away

• 280 State Park Road, Apex, NC, 27517

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The WRAL Azalea Gardens provide a peaceful escape in Raleigh, featuring a vibrant array of azaleas and other blooms. Located behind the WRAL-TV studios, this serene retreat is perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature's beauty.

• 19.5 mi away

• 2619 Western Blvd., Raleigh, NC, 27606

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This city park in Raleigh features a sand surface playground, a water garden, and a wetland habitat supporting butterflies, dragonflies, frogs, ducks, and more wildlife. The park offers outdoor basketball and tennis courts (no lights or backboards), a multipurpose field, and a playground designed for children ages 2-12. Access the park from St. Mary's Street or Glenwood Avenue, and enjoy the scenic walking paths. The Garris Building serves as the business office for various programs, while the Borden Building and Fred Fletcher Amphitheater host family-friendly events year-round.

• 19.8 mi away

• 820 Clay Street, Raleigh, NC, 27604

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Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve is a tranquil destination for nature lovers, offering diverse outdoor experiences. The preserve is home to a unique community of Eastern Hemlock trees and other mountain species. Visitors can enjoy 3 miles of mulched trails, scenic overlooks, and abundant birdwatching opportunities. The Stevens Nature Center provides engaging educational exhibits and programs for all ages. The park also features a children's nature trail, making it a great spot for families to explore and learn about nature.

• 19.8 mi away

• 2616 Kildaire Farm Road, Cary, NC, 27518

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Pleasant Park, located in Apex, offers a 92-acre facility with diverse amenities, including 6 multipurpose fields, tennis, pickleball, and basketball courts. The park features a 1.5-acre Enchanted Forest with 9 inclusive play villages for all ages and abilities. Open daily from 6:30 am to 10:00 pm, the park also includes Splashlantis, a water play area that opened in May 2024 with seasonal hours from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.

• 20.3 mi away

• 3400 Pleasant Plains Road, Apex, NC, 27502

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Lake Raleigh, located on NC State’s Centennial Campus, offers a scenic 75-acre lake and surrounding forest, providing a peaceful retreat for students and visitors alike. The area is perfect for walking, picnicking, fishing, and disc golf. The nine-hole disc golf course, accessible from the waterfront, offers a challenging layout. The addition of a popup bike rental and coffee shop makes it a great place to relax and enjoy outdoor activities. Parking is available at several points throughout the campus.

• 20.4 mi away

• 2300 Main Campus Dr., Raleigh, NC, 27606

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Built in 1769, this historic landmark is Wake County's oldest standing home. In 1792, Joel Lane sold 1,000 acres to the state, marking the site as the birthplace of North Carolina's capital. Visitors can enjoy guided tours led by costumed docents. Admission and hours vary, so please call or check the website for more details. Gardens: The Neo-Colonial garden features espaliered fruit trees, pomegranates, a grape arbor, and brick walkways. The herb garden showcases medicinal and culinary plants. Garden admission is free, and it is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Docent-guided tours include a discussion of colonial and modern herb uses.

• 20.4 mi away

• 160 S St Mary's St, Raleigh, NC 27603

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Students can explore three out of four educational programs: Artifact and House, Plantation Slavery, Andrew Johnson, and Historic Raleigh Trolley Tours. Tours are available Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

• 20.4 mi away

• 1 Mimosa Street, Raleigh, NC, 27604

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Dorothea Dix Park, a 308-acre park in Raleigh, NC, combines historical architecture with lush landscapes, making it a prime destination. It features swings, hammocks, and the Greg Poole, Jr. All Faiths Chapel, a renovated 1955 structure offering modern amenities while preserving mid-century design. The park hosts pop-up events like the 9-hole temporary disc golf course and the sunflower field, perfect for summer visits. The Dix Park Dog Park provides a space for off-leash dogs, and public parking is available after 5 pm on weekdays and all day on weekends.

• 20.6 mi away

• 1030 Richardson Drive, Raleigh, NC, 27603

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The Camden Street Learning Garden in downtown Raleigh is a green oasis where individuals and families can connect with nature and learn about sustainable food practices. Visitors can explore community garden beds, a food forest, a rainwater catchment system, and a variety of educational programs focused on growing healthy food and fostering relationships with the environment.

• 21.5 mi away

• 315 Camden Street, Raleigh, NC, 27601

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Horseshoe Farm Nature Preserve, located along the Neuse River, offers 146 acres of untouched natural beauty, including pastures, woodlands, and a rich cultural heritage. The preserve features two natural surface trails: the 0.9-mile Meadow Loop Trail and the 0.6-mile River Walk Trail. A paved connector trail links the preserve to the Neuse River section of the greenway. This serene park is perfect for nature walks, birdwatching, and outdoor exploration.

• 21.7 mi away

• 2900 Horseshoe Farm Road, Wake Forest, NC, 27587

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Nestled on 33 acres, Crowder District Park offers a variety of activities including animal encounters with ducks, turtles, and fish. The park features a paved walking path around a scenic pond, picnic shelters, playgrounds, and restrooms, making it an ideal spot for outdoor recreation.

• 22.1 mi away

• 4709 Ten Ten Road, Apex, NC, 27539

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Our goal is to raise awareness about the vital role wetlands play in providing clean water, supporting habitats, and offering recreational opportunities, while highlighting the importance of human connection with nature. Explore your local wetland and experience the beauty of diverse ecosystems! Visit our nature center located in the park office, offering a range of free activities, including interactive exhibits, explorer backpacks, scavenger hunts, and hands-on experiences with live animals. Equipment such as binoculars, boots, and field guides are available for free use, helping you explore the wetlands and trails. Every month, a new theme brings educational resources, games, and crafts for visitors to enjoy. The center is fully accessible, and rocking chairs are available for a relaxing view of the wetland. Public restrooms and pet watering stations are located on the center's outdoor deck.

• 22.3 mi away

• 950 Peterson Street, Raleigh, NC, 27610

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Yates Mill County Park is a 174-acre historic site featuring scenic hiking trails, the fully restored 18th-century Yates Mill, and a 24-acre pond. Visitors can explore the park’s natural beauty, learn about the region's milling history, and enjoy a peaceful outdoor experience. Admission is free, with guided mill tours available for a small fee to support ongoing preservation efforts.

• 22.4 mi away

• 4620 Lake Wheeler Rd, Raleigh, NC, 27603

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Explore the beauty of Forest Ridge Park, spanning 587 acres along Falls Lake. Enjoy mountain biking, hiking, fishing, nature programs, and scenic picnic areas. Don’t miss the seasonal paddle tours and loaner equipment like binoculars and fishing gear. A perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts!

• 22.6 mi away

• 2100 Old NC Hwy 98, Wake Forest, NC, 27587

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