Garrett Road Park

Location and Overview

Positioned in South Durham, North Carolina, Garrett Road Park spans a modest 7.64 acres directly across from Jordan High School. This compact community space offers a nice mix of recreational options, but we'll admit the layout feels a bit quirky compared to more traditional parks.

Sports Courts

One of the park's main draws is its six tennis courts that double as pickleball venues. The courts come with adjustable nets to accommodate both sports and are illuminated for evening play - thanks to some recent lighting upgrades that make those after-work matches much more visible.

Just a heads-up for tennis purists: you might find the pickleball lines a tad distracting when you're trying to focus on your game. That said, the courts are kept in good shape and regularly host everything from casual weekend volleys to organized USTA league competitions.

Kid-Friendly Zone

If you're bringing little ones along, you'll discover a simple playground nestled in the wooded section of the park. While it's not exactly an elaborate play paradise, kids seem perfectly content with the tire swing, spinning climbing pole, and those massive boulders that are surprisingly entertaining for climbers-in-training.

The play area works best for younger children - even toddlers as young as 3 can happily scramble around the climbing features for quite a while.

Picnic Possibilities

Need a spot for your family gathering? The park's picnic shelter provides a dedicated space for outdoor meals, complete with grills you're welcome to use. You'll also find picnic tables distributed within the grounds for more casual dining.

One minor drawback: if you're watching someone play tennis or pickleball, you might need to bring your own chair, as spectator seating is pretty limited around the courts.

Trails and Practical Info

Nature enthusiasts can access several greenways and trails from the park, including a mole walk route - fantastic for a refreshing stroll or morning jog through the area.

On the practical side, note that the permanent restrooms are often closed, with a portable toilet acting as the backup option. And if you're planning to visit during popular hours, you might want to have a parking backup plan, as spaces can fill up quickly when the park is busy.