North Hills Park

Park Overview

Tucked away at 100 Chowan Circle in North Raleigh, North Hills Park spans a generous 32 acres of community space that's been serving locals since 1962. It's one of those cozy parks where towering trees provide natural shade and create a peaceful escape from the city buzz. If you're looking to break a sweat or just chill outdoors, this neighborhood space has something for everyone.

Athletic Facilities

The pickleball courts are a recent addition to the park. In 2023, two tennis courts were transformed into six dedicated pickleball courts, thanks to the generosity of local enthusiast Marilyn Sorin. These courts have quickly become Raleigh's second outdoor pickleball destination and are popular with local players.

We appreciate the thoughtful design of these courts - there are even hooks for your belongings so they don't end up on the ground. Players of all skill levels gather here, following a friendly rotation system that ensures everyone gets playtime. You'll find the courts buzzing with activity from morning until evening.

Baseball fans haven't been forgotten either. The park features a lighted baseball field complete with bleacher seating and a water fountain near the visiting team's bench. If the bleachers are full, just head to the adjacent grassy hill for an ideal view of the game.

Family Recreation

The well-designed playground area features interconnected jungle gyms that are popular with children. The play space sits on a cushioned mulch base and includes a large sandbox for the little architects in your life. Most of the playground has good shade coverage - helpful during hot Carolina summers.

The playground stands out with some unique equipment: a three-seat spinning swing that's always in demand, slides of varying heights to suit different courage levels, a classic teeter-totter, and challenging climbing nets. While traditional swings are missing from the lineup, there's enough variety to keep everyone from toddlers to older kids thoroughly entertained.

Picnic and Gathering Areas

Planning a get-together? The park's large picnic shelter is ideally positioned near the playground, restrooms, and grilling area. It's well-suited for birthday celebrations and school outings, but fair warning - this popular spot gets booked quickly, so securing a reservation ahead of time is your best bet.

Accessibility and Connectivity

You won't struggle with parking here. The park offers two convenient lots - a medium-sized one by the baseball field and another close to the pickleball courts and playground. Wide, paved sidewalks make navigating from your car to your destination a breeze.

For those looking to extend their outdoor adventure, North Hills Park connects to the local greenway system. Near the tennis courts, you can hop onto the North Hills Segment of the Crabtree Creek Trail. This quarter-mile paved path is quite steep but provides a nice option for a quick walk or jog.

Historical Features

History buffs might be interested in the park's unexpected historical element - the Buffaloe family cemetery sits near the restroom facilities atop a grassy hill, adding a touch of local heritage to your visit.

Facilities

When nature calls, you'll discover restroom facilities conveniently located near the picnic shelter, easily accessible from the playground and other areas of the park.