William B. Umstead State Park

Activity Overview

William B. Umstead State Park is located between the cities of Raleigh, Durham, and Cary, North Carolina. This beautiful nature area features over 5,000 acres of land where visitors can go hiking, cycling, fishing, horseback riding, and boating. It also has an exhibit hall filled with interactive displays related to North Carolina's history, campgrounds, and picnic areas where you can enjoy a family meal in the great outdoors.

If you've been looking for a place in the Raleigh area where you can escape the hustle and bustle of city life with your family and get some fresh air, then William B. Umstead State Park is just what you're looking for.

Things to Do

• Go fishing! You're welcome to fish in Big Lake, Sycamore Lake, or Reedy Creek Lake and their connecting streams - commonly caught species include bluegill, bass, and crappie.
• Enjoy a family hike - the park has 20 miles of beautiful nature trails that will lead you along the lakes and deep into the woods.
• Learn more about North Carolina's fascinating cultural and natural history by visiting the Exhibit Hall, which features displays on old mills, the creation of the park, and the diverse wildlife that lives in the area.

William B. Umstead State Park Insider Tips

• Have a picnic in the park - there are tables and grills throughout the Crabtree Creek and Reedy Creek areas, as well as a few shelters that can be rented for large gatherings.
• Spend the night in nature by camping in the park! It has tent and primitive campgrounds for families, as well as a lodge and group campsites for bigger groups.
• Check their Events page to learn about upcoming family-friendly activities such as wildlife lectures, nature film screenings, and children's art programs.