Nature Adventures in Durham

The Junior Park Explorers program invites kids ages 4 to 15 to explore Wake County parks while earning rewards. Participants collect stamps on their scorecards by completing staff-led programs, camps, or special events. Once the card is filled, kids can collect their prize, a Wake County Parks daypack, and additional pins, making outdoor exploration even more exciting.

• 22.9 mi away

• Wake County Park

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The Wake Forest Reservoir invites visitors to explore soft trails, paddle on the lake, or fish in designated areas. Featuring a historic water plant site and trails created by local volunteers, it’s a peaceful spot for outdoor adventures.

• 23.3 mi away

• Wake Forest Reservoir, Wake Forest, NC, 27587

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Pullen Park in Raleigh offers a playground, volleyball court, and rentable picnic shelters. Rent kayaks, pedal boats, or fishing boats for lake adventures. With family-friendly amenities and a fishing rod loaner program, it’s an ideal destination for outdoor activities.

• 23.5 mi away

• 6404 Lake Wheeler Road, Raleigh, NC, 27603

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Step into authentic farm life at our family-owned and operated haven. Hidwell farm offers personal encounters with gentle alpacas, adorable rabbits, free-range chickens, and more! Experience the charm of rural living through our guided tours and savor the freshest farm-to-table eggs from our own ethically raised chickens. Join us for an authentic agricultural adventure that educates and delights visitors of all ages.

• 23.6 mi away

• 7621 Blaney Franks Rd., Apex, NC, 27539

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Mill Bridge Nature Park, located off Rogers Road, connects to the Wake Forest greenway system and will soon link to downtown Rolesville's Main Street Park. The park features a 200-seat amphitheater, which hosts the town's Music at Mill Bridge concert series. The amphitheater is available for rental, making it an ideal spot for events and gatherings.

• 23.7 mi away

• 425 Nature Park Drive, Rolesville, NC, 27571

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Experience living history at this meticulously preserved antebellum estate, showcasing an elegant 1855 Greek Revival house complemented by authentic period structures. Explore the historic detached kitchen, cotton gin house, livestock barn, and carriage house, set among a picturesque pecan grove and traditional herb garden. Children delight in our interactive Farm History Center's 'Farmer's Corner,' while our resident goats provide endless entertainment. Enhance your visit with our innovative Oak View Mobile Tour, revealing fascinating insights into the property's rich heritage and the lives of those who shaped this remarkable piece of American history.

• 24 mi away

• 4028 Carya Drive, Raleigh, NC, 27610

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Discover the natural beauty of Bass Lake Park, a year-round outdoor destination spanning 54 acres of pristine lakefront. Part of the NC Community Fishing Lake Program, the lake offers excellent fishing for catfish, bass, bream, and crappie, with complimentary equipment available through our Tackle Loaner Program. Enjoy seasonal boat rentals, explore our extensive greenway trail network, or visit our Nature Center featuring local wildlife exhibits. The park includes Sugg Farm's 117-acre special events space, complete with archery field, RC field, and dog park. Open 8 a.m. until sunset daily, except major holidays.

• 24.9 mi away

• 900 Bass Lake Road, Holly Springs, NC, 27540

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Harris Lake County Park, a 680-acre park located near New Hill, NC, offers a wide variety of activities. Visitors can explore the sensory garden, ride the Hog Run Mountain Bike Trail, or enjoy a round of disc golf. The park is also home to a playground, fishing opportunities, and geocaching. The site provides educational programs for schools and groups, offering both in-person and virtual experiences. A great destination for outdoor lovers and those seeking an adventure in nature.

• 25.1 mi away

• 2112 County Park Drive, New Hill, NC, 27562

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Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of Two Dachshund Fiber and Lavender Farm, a 17-acre agricultural oasis in Franklin County, NC. Our unique agritourism destination offers guided educational tours showcasing our diverse family of fiber-producing animals including alpacas, sheep, llamas, Angora goats, and Angora rabbits. Meet our working farm animals from vigilant donkeys to free-range chickens and Guineas. Discover the art of fiber processing and lavender cultivation while browsing our well-curated farm store featuring local artisan crafts. Visit year-round by appointment to experience the magic of sustainable farming.

• 26.3 mi away

• 313 Cedar Creek Road, Franklinton, NC, 27525

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The Knightdale Environmental Park offers a scenic paved walking trail and boardwalk that meanders around a pond. Visitors can relax on benches, enjoy public art installations, or use the two picnic shelters. With entrances from Town Hall and the East Wake Regional Library, this peaceful park is perfect for a morning walk or a quiet afternoon surrounded by nature.

• 26.5 mi away

• 1385 N Smithfield Road, Knightdale, NC, 27545

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Explore White Deer Park, a 96-acre natural haven adjacent to Lake Benson. This educational wonderland features two miles of paved trails, modern playgrounds, and a LEED Gold Certified Nature Center. Discover the wildflower meadow, arboretum, and five picnic shelters while observing local wildlife.

• 26.6 mi away

• 2400 Aversboro Road, Garner, NC, 27529

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Hilltop Needmore Town Park and Preserve spans 143 acres of green space, including ponds and trails. With 5 miles of trails offering varying difficulty levels, visitors can enjoy walking, jogging, and biking. The park also provides bike trails, restrooms, parking, and scenic views, making it a perfect location for outdoor activities.

• 26.7 mi away

• 4621 Shady Greens Drive, Fuquay-Varina,, NC, 27526

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Fuquay Mineral Spring, discovered in 1858 by Davey Crocket Fuquay and Stephen Fuquay, was once believed to have healing powers, attracting visitors from far and wide. Today, the spring is commemorated in Fuquay Mineral Spring Park, featuring a restored spring house, memorial brick path, picnic tables, and scenic walking areas. Located near downtown Fuquay, the park offers a peaceful setting to relax and explore, with a walking track for exercise.

• 29.2 mi away

• 105 West Spring Street, Fuquay-Varina, NC, 27526

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Juniper Level Botanic Garden boasts a stunning 28-acre collection of rare and exotic plants, drawing gardening enthusiasts from around the globe. Don’t miss the adjacent Plant Delights Nursery, offering unique perennials for sale to enhance your own garden.

• 29.3 mi away

• 9241 Sauls Rd., Raleigh, NC, 27603

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Robertson Millpond Preserve offers an 85-acre retreat for paddling, fishing, and exploring nature. Enjoy the historic landmark, geocaching, and Junior Park Explorer activities. A hidden gem in Wake County!

• 29.9 mi away

• 6333 Robertson Pond Road, Wendell, NC, 27591

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Little River Park in Zebulon is a nature lover’s haven with a flowing river, sandy beaches, and peaceful fishing spots. Perfect for relaxing by the water or enjoying the sounds of nature.

• 32.9 mi away

• 1800 W. Gannon Ave., Zebulon, NC, 27597

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Experience the natural beauty of Kerr Lake State Recreation Area, spanning two counties along the Virginia border. This 50,000-acre reservoir paradise features eight access areas with multiple boat ramps and hundreds of campsites. Enjoy premium fishing in one of the East Coast's top lakes, along with modern amenities including community buildings and beach access. Camping options range from basic tent sites to full-service RV hookups, with fees from $15 to $145 nightly.

• 42.9 mi away

• 6254 Satterwhite Point Road, Henderson, NC, 27537

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The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located along the border of North Carolina and Tennessee. It is renowned for its rich biodiversity, ancient mountains, and cultural history, making it the most visited national park in the U.S. The park offers stunning scenic views, hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and opportunities to explore Southern Appalachian culture. Visitors can experience attractions like Cades Cove, waterfalls, backcountry camping, and the famous synchronous fireflies event.

• 249.4 mi away

• Oconaluftee Visitor Center, 1194 Newfound Gap Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719

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Explore Wake County parks through a mobile tour that enhances your experience with maps, photos, audio, and text. As you visit various parks and preserves, the tour guides you to significant features and points of interest, offering a deeper understanding of the natural surroundings. New tours will be added regularly, so be sure to check back for fresh content and explore the parks in an entirely new way.

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