Forest Hills Park

Historic Origins

Positioned in East Central Durham, North Carolina, Forest Hills Park spans a generous 45.86 acres of public greenspace. What's fascinating is that this park has roots stretching back to the 1920s, when it was originally part of a nine-hole golf course with a clubhouse, developed by the New Hope Realty Company.

Fast forward to today, and it is the recreational heart of the historic Forest Hills neighborhood and nearby communities.

Natural Landscape

The park offers a nice blend of natural beauty and practical recreational spaces. The large open green areas - remnants of those old golf course fairways - now host everything from impromptu soccer matches to frisbee games.

One of the most charming aspects has to be the mature trees that dot the landscape. These gentle giants provide welcome shade and give the park its distinct character. You'll appreciate these beautiful old trees almost immediately upon visiting.

At the center of it all lies a large open field - a versatile space well-suited for casual sports, community gatherings, or simply spreading out a blanket for a family picnic. When well-maintained, there's enough room here for multiple activities to happen side by side without anyone feeling crowded.

Water Recreation

During those hot summer months, the park's seasonal outdoor pool becomes a neighborhood oasis. It's staffed with lifeguards who keep a watchful eye, and life jackets are available for added safety.

For the little ones, there's a sprayground that runs from May through October - a free water play area that's practically a magnet for children on scorching days. It's conveniently situated near the playground, making it easy to bounce between different activities.

Sports and Play Areas

If tennis is your thing, you'll come across several courts here, some of which are also lined for pickleball. They might show a few cracks from years of use, but they're perfectly fine for friendly matches.

Depending on when you visit, you might catch the temporary disc golf course in action. It's a beginner-friendly layout - nothing too intimidating for those just getting into the sport.

The playground offers options for kids of various ages, with different play structures and both standard and toddler bucket swings. While not the newest equipment in Durham, it's well-loved and functional. You'll appreciate that the benches are positioned close enough to keep an eye on the kids while taking a breather.

Historic Clubhouse

Standing proudly since 1928, the clubhouse built in Colonial Revival style has worn many hats over the years - school, public library, and now a vibrant community center.

These days, it's a popular venue for all sorts of gatherings, from business meetings to birthday parties and family reunions. It's refreshingly affordable and spacious, making it a go-to option for local events.

Picnic and Community Areas

Around the park, you'll come across several picnic shelters complete with grilling facilities. These covered spots provide shelter from sun or rain and are well-suited for celebrations of all kinds.

Restrooms are available throughout the grounds, but they can get busy during peak times and occasionally might need a bit more attention maintenance-wise.

Historical Significance

Beyond just being a place to play and relax, Forest Hills Park holds genuine historical importance. In 2005, both the park and its surrounding neighborhood earned a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. This recognition highlights its role in Durham's development - it was part of one of the city's first suburbs designed with automobiles in mind.