Smith Creek Park

What You'll Find Here

Nestled off Gordon Road in Wilmington, North Carolina, Smith Creek Park spans 92 acres of natural beauty. At its heart lies a freshwater lake where you can try your hand at fishing or enjoy some peaceful time on the water with non-motorized activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. Keep your eyes peeled for the local wildlife - turtles sunning themselves on logs, fish swimming below the surface, and birds soaring overhead.

Wrapping around the lake is a paved 1.3-mile multi-use trail that's great for a leisurely stroll, morning jog, or bike ride. The path is wide enough to accommodate strollers, making it a great spot for families. You'll find plenty of benches along the way when you need a breather, and dog waste stations are conveniently placed for when you bring your four-legged friend along.

Natural Side of Smith Creek

If you're feeling a bit more adventurous, there's a 1-mile natural preserve trail that runs adjacent to the paved path. This sandy, wooded trail offers a more rugged experience, letting you connect with nature on a deeper level. The park is a great place to observe local plants and animals in their natural setting.

One of the most magical times to visit is during the evening when beautiful sunsets paint the sky above the lake. It makes for some beautiful photo opportunities. The lake itself is a bustling ecosystem with turtles poking their heads above water, small fish darting below, and various birds calling it home.

Things to Do

For families with kids, the park offers a shaded multi-age playground where children can burn off energy. Just note that some areas might be a bit challenging for the tiniest adventurers. When hunger strikes, head to one of the covered picnic shelters - clean restrooms are conveniently located nearby.

Water enthusiasts will appreciate the dedicated boat launch area designed specifically for canoes and kayaks, making it easy to get out on the lake. Anglers can enjoy casting a line from the fishing dock - bluegill and other small fish are common catches here.

Bringing Pets Along

Smith Creek Park is definitely dog-friendly, but you'll need to keep your pup on a leash at all times. The lake path makes for an excellent dog-walking route. Note that swimming isn't allowed in the lake - this rule applies to both humans and four-legged visitors.

Getting There

Thanks to its location near I-40, the park is super accessible whether you're a local or just visiting Wilmington. You'll discover plenty of parking, clean restrooms, and a water fountain near the picnic area. There's even free WiFi across the park if you need to stay connected.