Durant Nature Preserve
A 237-acre North Raleigh oasis with 5+ miles of shaded trails, lakes, wildlife, and family-friendly features.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
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Best Time
Peaceful trails, fewer crowds
Durant Nature Preserve
Best Time
Peaceful trails, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 237-acre North Raleigh oasis with 5+ miles of shaded trails, lakes, wildlife, and family-friendly features.
"A great place for a quick hike, with scenic and clearly marked trails, plus a playground and public bathrooms."
🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome on all trails, making it a great spot for furry friends!
👟 Trail Etiquette
Stay on marked trails; different colors often indicate different routes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Border Loop Trail
Main trail system
A scenic 2.5-mile loop offering a good overview of the preserve's woodlands and lakes.
Secret Creek Trail
North Lot access
A short, shaded 0.6-mile trail perfect for families with easy creek access.
Sensory Garden & Carved Tree
Near North Lot entrance
An engaging nature play area and a unique carved tree, a fun discovery for kids.
Lake Views & Wildlife
Various points around the lakes
Enjoy peaceful lake vistas, spot turtles, ducks, and potentially deer.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Trails
Best Times for Tranquility
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome on all trails, making it a great spot for furry friends!
👟 Trail Etiquette
Stay on marked trails; different colors often indicate different routes.
💧 Public Restrooms Available
Convenient public restrooms are available, a big plus for families.
🎒 Discovery Backpacks
Check for discovery backpacks to enhance the nature exploration experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome on all trails, making it a great spot for furry friends!
👟 Trail Etiquette
Stay on marked trails; different colors often indicate different routes.
💧 Public Restrooms Available
Convenient public restrooms are available, a big plus for families.
🎒 Discovery Backpacks
Check for discovery backpacks to enhance the nature exploration experience.
🎣 Fishing Opportunities
The lake offers fishing, and there's a designated fishing area.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Durant Nature Preserve for its well-maintained, shaded trails and peaceful atmosphere, making it a great spot for quick hikes and family outings. The availability of public restrooms and the natural beauty, including lake views and wildlife sightings, are frequently highlighted as positives. Some visitors note that while the playground is small, it's still enjoyable for kids.
"A great place for a quick hike after I drop my kid off at the local school. Trails are well shaded and maintained. I have seen a few deer and li"
Jeffrey Miller
"My young daughter, small dog and I went for a good walk on the trails that were scenic and clearly marked. Also stopped at the play ground which was small but fun! The park has a public bathroom which is a HUGE bonus. And even though it was January we got to see some cool plants and a few forms of wild life."
Catt Hoagland
"Now this is a way to be with nature. To just walk around and see the lake, etc. was peaceful. My kids really enjoyed that so much that they didn't even care about going to the park that was there. As you walk the trails, the trees will be marked with a colored diamond (each trail has a different color). But the walk was gorgeous with the fall leaves. Will definitely come back especially to see how it looks during the warmer months."
Anjelica Rice
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Durant Nature Preserve is located at 8305 Camp Durant Rd, Raleigh, NC 27614. It has multiple access points, with the North Lot (off Durant Rd) being a popular starting point for trails like Secret Creek. 
Yes, there is ample parking available at both the North and South entrances, making it easy to access the trails.
Public transportation options to Durant Nature Preserve are limited. It's generally recommended to drive or use ride-sharing services for convenient access.
Yes, the preserve has multiple entrances, including a North Lot off Durant Road and a South Lot. The North Lot is often recommended for accessing specific trails and amenities.
Trails are marked with colored diamonds on trees, with different colors representing different routes. Using a trail map or a navigation app can also be helpful.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Durant Nature Preserve is free to enter and explore. There are no admission fees required.
The preserve is typically open from dawn until dusk. It's always a good idea to check the official Raleigh Parks website for any seasonal or special event hours.
No advance booking is necessary for general park access. You can visit anytime during operating hours.
While general access is free, permits might be required for specific activities like large group events or certain types of fishing. It's best to inquire with Raleigh Parks for details.
Yes, you can rent huts or cabins for gatherings, and there are picnic areas available. Inquire with Raleigh Parks for rental information and availability.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The preserve offers a variety of trails, including the 2.5-mile Border Loop Trail, the shorter Secret Creek Trail, and other paths suitable for hiking and mountain biking.
Absolutely! Families love the Secret Creek Trail, the playground, the sensory garden, and the opportunity to see wildlife.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Durant Nature Preserve as long as they are kept on a leash.
Visitors often spot turtles, ducks, and birds around the lake. Deer have also been seen in the preserve.
Yes, there are picnic areas and plenty of seating options throughout the preserve, including spots near the lake for a relaxing nap.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants within Durant Nature Preserve. Visitors are encouraged to pack their own food and drinks for picnics.
The preserve is located in North Raleigh, offering a variety of dining options in nearby shopping centers and neighborhoods. Explore local eateries for diverse cuisines.
Yes, picnic areas are available, and it's a popular spot for families and groups to enjoy meals outdoors.
No, there is no cafe or snack bar within the preserve. It's advisable to bring all your snacks and beverages.
While not explicitly mentioned, it's always a good idea to carry your own water bottle, especially during warmer months.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake offers beautiful reflections, especially during sunrise or sunset. The shaded trails, mature trees, and the sensory garden also provide picturesque scenes.
With opportunities to see birds, turtles, and deer, it can be a good spot for wildlife photography, especially during early mornings or late afternoons.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best natural light, creating a softer glow and longer shadows. Golden hour is particularly beautiful.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's essential to check with Raleigh Parks and Recreation for current regulations regarding drone operation within the preserve.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for landscapes and general shots. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife, and a wide-angle lens can capture the expansive forest scenes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the playground and the engaging sensory garden which offers a unique nature play experience. The carved tree near the North Lot is a fun little discovery for kids to find. With public restrooms and picnic areas, it's perfectly set up for a day trip. Spotting wildlife like turtles and ducks in the lake adds an educational element to the visit.
🐶 Dog Owners
The shaded trails offer a comfortable walking experience for both you and your dog, with plenty of sniff-worthy spots along the way. Whether you're looking for a short stroll or a longer hike, the diverse trail system provides ample opportunities for your dog to explore. Enjoy the serene lake views and the natural beauty of the preserve together.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Nature Enthusiasts
The well-maintained and marked trails make navigation straightforward, though some sections can be rugged. Nature lovers will appreciate the opportunity to observe wildlife, from birds and turtles to deer, and to immerse themselves in the peaceful woodland environment. The preserve's natural beauty, especially during fall foliage, makes it a rewarding destination for those seeking a tranquil escape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Trails of Durant Nature Preserve
+2Many trails are well-maintained and clearly marked with colored diamonds on trees, helping visitors navigate the preserve. Some paths are suitable for mountain biking, adding another dimension to the outdoor experience. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as some sections can be uneven or muddy after rain.
Beyond the main trails, the preserve offers opportunities for leisurely strolls, birdwatching, and simply immersing oneself in nature. The variety ensures that whether you're seeking a vigorous hike or a peaceful walk, Durant Nature Preserve has a path for you.
Family Adventures at Durant Nature Preserve
The presence of a playground and a unique sensory garden further enhances the appeal for younger visitors. Families can also enjoy spotting wildlife like turtles and ducks in the lake, making for an educational and engaging experience. The carved tree near the North Lot entrance is another fun discovery for children.
With amenities like public restrooms and picnic areas, it's well-equipped for a day out with the family. Many parents rave about how their children enjoy the natural setting, sometimes even preferring it over traditional playgrounds. The shaded trails provide a comfortable environment for walks, even on warmer days.
Nature Photography Opportunities
The mature woodlands provide a lush backdrop with dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy, creating beautiful, atmospheric shots. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as the preserve is home to various bird species, turtles, and occasionally deer. Early mornings and late afternoons are the best times for wildlife photography, as animals are often more active and the light is softer.
The sensory garden also offers unique textures and colors for macro photography. For landscape photographers, the variety of terrain, from open water to dense forest, provides diverse compositions. Consider bringing a versatile lens to capture both wide vistas and intimate details of the natural environment.
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