Known as the City of Oaks, Raleigh, North Carolina doubles as the state capitol and the county seat of Wake County. With an estimated population of nearly 400,000 as of July, 2008, it is the second largest city in the state. In addition to its prominence in governmental affairs, Raleigh is also a thriving cultural center with numerous museums, historic sites, concerts and theatrical productions. While there is plenty to do in the city, for those who wish to get away from it all there are a number of state parks within driving distance.
The William B. Umstead State Park is a 5,579-acre park that is strategically situated between the bustling metropolises of Raleigh, Cary and Durham, North Carolina. Canoeing and rowing on Big Lake are popular pastimes at the park. Canoes and rowboats may be rented from the park's boathouse.
The park features 28 improved campsites, areas for primitive camping, bridal trails, bicycling and mountain bike trails, fishing, hiking and picnicking. The William B. Umstead State Park is less than 15 miles northwest of Raleigh, North Carolina.
William B. Umstead State Park
8801 Glenwood Avenue
Raleigh, NC 27617
919-571-4170
ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/wium/activities.php
Raven Rock, standing high above the Cape Fear River, is the most prominent landmark at Raven Rock State Park. Nature lovers will revel in the diversity and beauty of the park's abundant wildflowers, diverse topography and wildlife. The park is a bird watcher's paradise during the spring migration season. Woodpeckers, owls, wood ducks, hawks and more than 20 species of warblers can be identified in the area. Canoeing on the Cape Fear River, camping, picnicking and hiking are also popular pastimes for park visitors. Raven Rock State Park is less than 40 miles southwest of Raleigh.
Raven Rock State Park
3009 Raven Rock Road
Lillington, NC 27546
910-893-4888
ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/raro/main.php
The Eno River is the primary natural feature that draws people to the Eno River State Park. The Eno is a swift, though shallow river that meanders for more than 33 miles before merging with the Flat River to form the Neuse River.
The park offers more than 3,900 acres of wilderness trails for hiking, camping and picnicking. Sportsmen can test their skill and wits against redbreast sunfish, largemouth bass, bluegill and the wily Roanoke bass. Canoe and kayak enthusiasts can experience Class III rapids on the Eno after a good rain. The Eno River State Park lies approximately 40 miles northwest of Raleigh, North Carolina.
Eno River State Park
6101 Cole Mill Road
Durham, NC 27705-9275
919-383-1686
ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/enri/main.php
Falls Lake State Recreation Area offers more than 26,000 acres of woodlands and a 12,000 acre lake situated only a half-hour away from Raleigh. Day-trippers can enjoy fishing, boating or swimming on the lake. There are plenty of great trails for hiking or mountain biking. Those who have a little longer to enjoy the great outdoors will discover more than 300 improved campsites, many with electricity and water. The area also offers 47 primitive campsites for adventurous backpackers. Falls Lake State Recreation Area is located 20 miles north of Raleigh.
Falls Lake State Recreation Area
13304 Creedmoor Rd.
Wake Forest, NC 27587
919-676-1027
ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/fala/main.php
One of the popular attractions at the Cliffs of the State Park is its 11-acre man-made lake. This recreational facility sports a sandy beach with a roped off perimeter and diving platform. Swimming is permitted when a lifeguard is on duty between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Boats are also available for rent, although private boats are not permitted. There are 35 improved campsites in the park along with primitive camping areas set aside for groups. The park gates are closed and locked at night, however, and campers will not be permitted to leave except for medical emergencies until the park opens the following morning. The Cliffs of the Neuse State Park is approximately 65 miles southeast of Raleigh, North Carolina.
Cliffs of the Neuse State Park
345-A Park Entrance Road
Seven Springs, NC 28578
919-778-6234
ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/clne/main.php
