Jaycee Park

Park Overview

Tucked away on Wade Avenue in Raleigh, Jaycee Park spans a generous 14.9 acres of recreational bliss. Established back in 1961, this gathering space has been bringing locals together for over six decades. Whether you're looking to break a sweat, entertain the kids, or simply find a peaceful spot to unwind, the park offers a diverse mix of facilities and natural areas.

Athletic Facilities

The park has three lit baseball fields where you can catch local league action or join a casual game. Beach volleyball more your style? The six lit sand volleyball courts attract both serious players and fun-seeking groups - including regulars from NCSU volleyball circles. After diving for that perfect save, rinse off at the outdoor shower conveniently placed nearby. Tennis players haven't been forgotten either, with two lit tennis courts available for those evening matches when the daytime heat subsides.

Daylily Garden

Need a moment of floral tranquility? The park's Daylily Garden, lovingly maintained by the Raleigh Hemerocallis Club, offers a colorful escape from the everyday. Take a leisurely stroll down the garden path just below the newer playground and immerse yourself in the diverse variety of daylilies and companion plants. For an even more secluded experience, venture behind the main building to discover what locals have dubbed the "secret garden" - a hidden spot fantastic for quiet contemplation or curling up with a good book.

Playground Area

The sandy playground is a hit with families, thoughtfully divided into sections for little ones (2-5 years) and older kids (5-12 years). Surrounding shade trees provide welcome relief on hot summer days, while benches offer parents a comfortable perch to supervise the fun. The playground equipment is modern and well-maintained, and parents can breathe a little easier thanks to the partial fence separating the play area from the parking lot.

Dog Run

Four-legged family members have their own dedicated space at Jaycee Park. The dog run area sits just south of the Wade Avenue parking lot, near the playground and tennis courts. While it's not the largest dog park you'll find in Raleigh and can get a bit muddy after rain, it's a convenient spot for local pups to burn off energy and make some furry friends in a safe, off-leash environment.

Community Center

The recently renovated community center represents the park's indoor hub, complete with meeting rooms, a gymnasium, and a weight room. Beyond just a place to exercise, it's become a gathering point for local groups and community events throughout the year. When outdoor plans get rained out, the center's regular hours ensure you still have recreational options available.

Picnic Facilities

Looking to dine alfresco? Jaycee Park has a pavilion equipped with a charcoal grill and nearby restrooms. There's also at least one rentable picnic shelter that can accommodate groups of up to 15 people (available first-come, first-served). You'll find plenty of picnic tables scattered throughout the grounds, particularly near the playground - fantastic for keeping an eye on the kids while enjoying your lunch.

Trails and Natural Areas

For those seeking gentle exercise or a peaceful nature fix, the park's walking paths and trails weave through lush green spaces, offering a refreshing escape from city life. The well-maintained grassy areas also provide plenty of room for impromptu frisbee games, picnic blankets, or simply lying back to watch the clouds drift by.

Location and Renovations

Jaycee Park underwent a refresh in summer 2012, ensuring everything stays in tip-top shape for visitors. Its location inside the Raleigh beltline is a major plus, with convenient access from both Wade Avenue and Chamberlain Street. This central position makes it an easy destination whether you're coming from downtown or the suburbs.