Burton Park

Park Overview

Found in East Central Durham, North Carolina, Burton Park spreads across 10.34 acres of public green space. It's a little neighborhood green space with basketball courts and a playground where kids can play.

The playground got a fresh makeover in May 2022, thanks to a team effort between Durham Parks and Recreation, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, and KABOOM!. The renovation provided local children with updated play equipment.

Recreational Facilities

If basketball is your thing, you'll appreciate the park's basketball court where you can practice your three-pointers or join in on a pickup game. The large pavilion includes two long tables and offers plenty of shade - useful for summer gatherings when you need a break from the North Carolina sun.

Children (ages 2-12) can enjoy the playground, which features a swing set, a disc swing, and various climbing structures. It's the kind of place where you can sit on a bench and watch your little ones tire themselves out while you enjoy a moment of peace.

Natural Areas

Beyond the recreational facilities, Burton Park offers clean, well-kept green spaces and walking paths that make for a pleasant stroll or morning jog. The scenery isn't spectacular, but it provides a nice dose of nature in the urban landscape. There's also a water fountain available - always a welcome sight after working up a sweat.

Important Notices

Heads up if you're planning a visit: as of March 2025, there's a water quality notice in effect. The City of Durham discovered an illegal discharge upstream of the creek that runs through the park (part of the Third Fork Creek watershed).

You'll need to keep the kids (and yourself) out of the creek for now - no wading or playing in the water while chemical testing is underway. Safety first as they assess any potential impact downstream.