Leesville Community Park

Park Overview

Tucked away at 5105 Country Trail in northwest Raleigh, Leesville Community Park spans a generous 56 acres of neighborhood greenspace. Since opening in 1990, this peaceful spot offers both recreational facilities and natural areas to explore.

You'll often find families with kids enjoying the playgrounds while dog owners stroll the trails with their furry friends in tow - it's a laid-back space with the essentials for spending time outdoors.

Playgrounds

The park features two distinct play areas tailored to different age groups: one designed for the little ones (ages 2-5) and another that keeps older kids (5-12) challenged and engaged. Both playgrounds are equipped with climbing structures and cargo nets atop a cushioning bed of wood chips.

One playground benefit we really appreciate is the large shade tarp covering the play area, offering much-needed protection from those intense summer rays. Just keep in mind that the equipment tends to be more suitable for older children - the climbing structures can be a bit challenging for the youngest visitors and might require keeping a closer eye on them.

Worth noting: if your little ones love traditional swings or digging in sandboxes, you won't find those options here. The playground leans more toward climbing and exploration than conventional play equipment.

Library Integration

A notable feature of Leesville is its integration with the Leesville Community Library, which sits right on the park grounds. This pairing creates a convenient two-in-one destination for families.

Many parents (ourselves included) love the rhythm of letting kids burn off energy at the playground before or after a quiet reading session at the library. The library itself is a calm retreat with large windows that frame views of the surrounding greenspace - ideal for settling in with a good book or getting some work done.

The combination of outdoor play and indoor reading spaces provides multiple options for visitors.

Recreation Trails

If you're looking to get your steps in, the park offers a smooth, 10-foot wide asphalt trail stretching roughly 1,400 linear feet around the property. This multi-purpose path works equally well for a casual stroll, morning jog, or family bike ride.

Beyond the main paved loop, you can venture onto smaller wooded walking trails that meander through the park's natural areas. These charming dirt paths offer a more immersive forest experience, but they can be a bit tricky to locate your first time visiting as signage is minimal.

Dog owners particularly appreciate these trails as they provide a pleasant route for daily walks - just remember to bring bags for cleanup.

Amenities

Thoughtfully placed benches around the park offer spots to catch your breath, enjoy a packed lunch, or simply sit and watch the world go by. If nature calls while you're visiting, restroom facilities are available inside the library during operating hours.

The parking situation is hassle-free with plenty of free spaces available. One small tip from our experience: during warmer months, you might want to pack some insect repellent, especially if you plan to explore the wooded sections where mosquitoes sometimes gather.

Upcoming Improvements

As of early 2025, Leesville is undergoing a significant makeover funded by the 2022 Raleigh Parks Bond. The playground is currently closed for renovations and expected to reopen by the end of 2025.

The improvements include some welcome additions like a permanent restroom facility (replacing the temporary trailer currently on site). Other exciting plans feature an outdoor reading nook connecting the natural and literary aspects of the park, electric vehicle charging stations for eco-conscious visitors, and an expanded playground area complete with a new shade structure.