River Forest Park

Natural Retreat

Situated in North Durham, River Forest Park spans a generous 67.65 acres of green space that feels worlds away from city life. This spacious natural haven offers plenty of room to breathe and explore, whether you're looking for an active day out or just a peaceful escape.

The park borders the Eno River, treating you to some truly beautiful waterfront views. Just be careful if you're wandering near the riverbanks - there are some steep drops in certain areas that require a bit of caution.

Landscape & Wildlife

The park's landscape is a delightful mix of open meadows and shaded woodland areas. This variety creates perfect spaces for both energetic activities and quiet contemplation. If you're lucky, you might spot some deer gracefully making their way across the fields.

Fall is particularly magical here, when the trails become especially lush and fill with the earthy scents of the season.

Trails to Explore

If you're a hiking enthusiast, you'll appreciate the network of greenway trails winding through the park. The River Forest Trail starts near the shelter and offers a gentle, shaded path alongside the Eno River - fantastic for a leisurely stroll.

The park also connects to the renowned Mountains-to-Sea Trail (MST), making it a favorite spot for more serious hikers. Feel like extending your adventure? Some trails link to areas like Penny's Branch, offering longer hikes of about 2.5 hours round trip.

Recreation Options

The large open field at River Forest Park is a versatile space for all sorts of outdoor activities. It's particularly popular for cricket matches, which typically take place on weekends between 10am and 4pm.

During weekdays, the field is generally open for other activities - you'll often see people practicing their golf swings or even trying their hand at archery. There's also a half-court basketball area if you're in the mood for shooting some hoops.

Picnic Spots

When hunger strikes or you just want to relax, the park offers several picnic areas complete with tables. The standout feature is a rentable picnic shelter with its own grill - an ideal spot for family cookouts or gathering with friends.

The shelter is kept in great condition and isn't far from the parking area, with a paved path making it accessible for everyone in your group.

Practical Information

You'll discover plenty of free parking at River Forest Park, including accessible spaces for those who need them. A paved path connects the parking area to the picnic shelter, making navigation straightforward.

The park provides a portable toilet for when nature calls. Open 24 hours daily, you can visit for an early morning jog or an evening stroll as your schedule permits.

While River Forest Park offers many amenities, it's worth noting that there isn't a playground, so you might want to plan accordingly if you're visiting with young children.