Lake Crabtree County Park
A 215-acre park on a 520-acre lake, offering 16+ miles of trails, free boat rentals, playgrounds, and stunning sunset views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free boat rentals available!
Lake Crabtree County Park
Best Time
Free boat rentals available!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 215-acre park on a 520-acre lake, offering 16+ miles of trails, free boat rentals, playgrounds, and stunning sunset views.
"This park is truly a hidden gem with beautiful views, nice hiking trails, and breathtaking sunsets."
🎯 Free Kayak & Boat Rentals
Take advantage of free rentals on weekends/holidays! Arrive early, bring ID.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
With over 16 miles of trails, good shoes are a must for exploring.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Free Watercraft Rentals
Boat rental area
Enjoy complimentary kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. All equipment is provided!
Scenic Hiking Trails
Various trailheads
Explore over 16 miles of trails, from paved paths to natural surfaces, offering beautiful lake views.
Breathtaking Sunsets
Throughout the park, especially near the water
Witness vibrant skies reflecting on the water, a perfect end to any day.
Observation Tower
Near the main park entrance
Climb for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Boat Rentals & Trail Closures
Beat the Crowds for Rentals
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Kayak & Boat Rentals
Take advantage of free rentals on weekends/holidays! Arrive early, bring ID. +1
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
With over 16 miles of trails, good shoes are a must for exploring.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The open water and trails can get sunny; bring sunscreen and hats.
🆔 Bring Your ID
Required for all watercraft rentals.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Kayak & Boat Rentals
Take advantage of free rentals on weekends/holidays! Arrive early, bring ID. +1
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
With over 16 miles of trails, good shoes are a must for exploring.
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The open water and trails can get sunny; bring sunscreen and hats.
🆔 Bring Your ID
Required for all watercraft rentals.
🐍 Be Snake Aware
Especially on natural trails, be mindful of local wildlife.
📸 Capture the Sunset
The park offers stunning sunset views over the water. 
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lake Crabtree County Park for its natural beauty, extensive trail system, and especially the free boat rentals. Many highlight it as a peaceful escape with stunning sunset views and ample space for picnics and family activities. Some minor concerns include potential snake sightings on trails and the need to arrive early for popular free rentals.
"We loved our visit to Lake Crabtree. We visited to see the sunset. You can view from many spots across the water. There is pier for fishing. There is a spot from which you can rent boats. There is a volleyball court and a large grassy area. There are two parking areas. The first has a small pebbly surface. We were on a motorcycle so not great. The second parking lot is for the pier and is paved. Public restrooms are available. There is a small building that you can climb to second story for another view of the lake. Highly recommend this park. It is truly beautiful and well cared for."
April Williams
"Had a wonderful kayaking experience at Lake Crabtree! Best part—it’s free with just a reasonable wait time. The staff is super friendly and makes the whole process smooth and easy. A perfect spot for a fun and relaxing day on the water !"
aruna raut
"Beatuiful park! Lots of trails for hiking. The fall foilage is beautiful there. Lots of trails from soil, concrete, and grass. They have lots of benches for sitting area and parking spots. It's not too crowded and always a great place to relax by the water."
Akib Khan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lake Crabtree County Park is conveniently located at 1400 Aviation Parkway, Morrisville, NC 27560. It's easily accessible via I-40. +1 There are multiple parking areas within the park.
Yes, the park has several parking areas. One lot is near the pier and is paved, while another has a pebbly surface, which might be less ideal for motorcycles.
Information on public transportation to Lake Crabtree County Park is limited. Driving is the most common and recommended method of access.
Yes, Lake Crabtree County Park is located very close to RDU Airport, making it a convenient stop for travelers. +1
The park has multiple access points. The main entrance off Aviation Parkway leads to various facilities, including the observation tower and boat rental area. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Lake Crabtree County Park is free to enter and explore. +2
Watercraft rentals, including kayaks and canoes, are typically free during the operating season on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. +2
The park generally closes at sunset. It's advisable to check the official Wake County Parks website for specific hours, as they can vary seasonally.
Boat rentals are on a first-come, first-served basis, so it's recommended to arrive early, especially on busy days. +1
While not explicitly stated, it's common for minors to require adult supervision for boat rentals. Bringing an ID is mandatory for rentals.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding, fishing, picnicking, and playing on two playgrounds. There's also a sand volleyball court.
Yes, the park offers over 16 miles of trails with various surfaces, including soil, concrete, and grass, catering to different fitness levels.
Yes, the park is generally pet-friendly, allowing visitors to bring their furry companions along for the outdoor adventure.
Absolutely! The park features two playgrounds, one for toddlers and another for older children, making it a great family destination.
Yes, fishing is permitted at Lake Crabtree. There is a pier available for fishing access.
📸 📸 Photography
The observation tower offers panoramic views, while the trails provide opportunities for nature shots. Sunsets over the lake are particularly photogenic.
Late afternoon and early evening offer beautiful golden hour light, and the sunsets are spectacular.
The park boasts wildflowers that are beautiful through October, offering vibrant colors for photography.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's best to check with Wake County Parks directly for any regulations regarding drone operation within the park.
The park is home to diverse wildlife, making it a good spot for birdwatching and capturing images of local fauna.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The availability of free boat rentals on weekends and holidays offers a unique and exciting activity for the whole family to enjoy together on the water. With over 16 miles of trails, families can enjoy leisurely walks or bike rides, taking in the natural scenery.
Picnic areas with grills and gazebos are also available, making it easy to plan a full day of outdoor fun. Remember to bring sunscreen and hats, as much of the park is open and exposed to the sun. 💰 Budget Travelers
Beyond the free boating, the extensive network of hiking and biking trails offers endless opportunities for recreation at no cost.
Packing your own picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic spots further reduces expenses. It's a perfect spot for a fun-filled day that won't break the bank. 🏃♀️ Active Adventurers
+2 The varied terrain, from paved paths to natural surfaces, keeps the experience engaging. The lake itself provides a fantastic playground for water sports. Take advantage of the free kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals to get a great workout on the water.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Lake Crabtree
+1 These trails are ideal for hiking, jogging, and even mountain biking, providing varied terrain and scenic views. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as some trails can be uneven or muddy after rain. While many trails are open, it's important to note that some multi-use trails have been closed for construction. Always check the park's official website or signage for the most current trail status before your visit.
For those seeking a more challenging experience, the mountain bike trails offer twists and turns through the park's natural landscape.
Free Water Adventures at Lake Crabtree
To take advantage of these free rentals, plan your visit for Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
While the lake itself is open, it's worth noting that some park facilities or trails might be subject to temporary closures due to ongoing development or construction.
Photography Opportunities
The trails themselves are also excellent for nature photography, with opportunities to capture lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and the tranquil waters. The park is particularly renowned for its stunning sunsets. As the day winds down, the sky often erupts in vibrant hues of orange, pink, and purple, which beautifully reflect off the lake's surface.
+1 These moments create breathtaking opportunities for photographers. Additionally, the park features beautiful wildflowers that bloom through October, adding pops of color to your shots. Whether you're an amateur with a smartphone or a professional with a DSLR, Lake Crabtree offers numerous picturesque scenes. Remember to visit during the golden hour in the late afternoon for the most dramatic lighting.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit