Reedy Creek Regional Park

Park Overview

Situated in the Newell area of Charlotte, North Carolina, Reedy Creek Regional Park spans 125 acres of urban greenery. What makes this spot even more special is the adjacent 737-acre nature preserve that creates a substantial green haven within the city limits. If you're looking to escape the concrete jungle without actually leaving town, this park offers a balance of peaceful natural spaces and recreational options.

Sports and Recreation

The main park area has sports facilities scattered throughout for a variety of activities. Regardless of whether you're into basketball, softball, tennis, soccer, horseshoes, cricket, volleyball, or pickleball, you can find a place to play here.

Beyond the athletic fields, the park offers several other ways to enjoy your time outdoors. There are cozy indoor and outdoor picnic facilities, plenty of benches for relaxing, and multiple playgrounds for the little ones. Disc golf enthusiasts will appreciate the challenging disc golf course that's become something of a local favorite. And if you're a dog parent, head to the dog park near the entrance where your four-legged friend can run free and make some canine connections.

Trails and Natural Areas

Reedy Creek features a network of walking trails that meander through diverse landscapes. These well-maintained paths are mostly shaded (a blessing during North Carolina summers) and relatively flat, making them accessible for hikers of all abilities. While trail markers help guide your journey, it's not a bad idea to bring a map along - the trail system is extensive enough that even regular visitors occasionally find themselves momentarily turned around.

The park includes several water features. Several ponds and a lakeside fishing pier create tranquil spots to cast a line or simply observe nature. Keep your eyes peeled for turtles sunning themselves, dragonflies darting about, and if you're lucky, you might even spot deer and other wildlife going about their day.

Family-Friendly Features

There are several areas for children in the park. The Carolina Panthers Play 60 KidZone is particularly impressive with its specialized equipment, including a running track complete with a speedometer to clock those little sprinters. There's also a natural play area with more traditional playground equipment, all thoughtfully placed in shaded spots to keep things comfortable even on warm days.

The Reedy Creek Nature Center functions as both an educational hub and gateway to exploring the park's ecosystems. With exhibits about local wildlife and regular programs for nature enthusiasts of all ages, it's a great place to deepen your connection to the natural world around you.

Community Features

Green thumbs can get their hands dirty at the park's community garden, where local residents come together to grow plants and relationships simultaneously.

Planning a gathering? The park offers several picnic shelters that you can reserve ahead of time. These come equipped with practical amenities like charcoal grills, electrical outlets, and nearby restrooms - fantastic for family reunions, birthday celebrations, or just a weekend cookout with friends.

Maintained by Mecklenburg County Parks and Recreation, Reedy Creek Regional Park combines recreational facilities and natural spaces within the city limits.