Wake County Parks, Recreation and Open Space offers public programs, group programs, camps and major events for the public. Check back often to learn about and register for coming events, most of which are free.
Programs, Camps and Events
Public Programs
These programs cover history, nature and recreational topics at our various park sites. You can view and register for program offerings through our online system. You can also learn more about each individual park’s public program offerings on the following pages:
Group Programs
Group programs are requested by and scheduled for particular school or user groups. Learn more about the types of group programs and field trips offered by park sites along with scheduling information at the following links:
Camps
Camps are more extended programs offered by park staff during the summer months. Learn more about the camps offered by each park at the following links:
Major Events
Park sites throughout the county offer major events centered around a nature, history, or recreational topic in a festival-like atmosphere. These large, one-day events usually take place in the spring or fall. You can learn more about the special events each park offers at the following links:
Park Initiatives
Become a Junior Park Explorer
Do you like to explore parks and preserves? Do you like winning prizes? Our Junior Park Explorers program is for you!
Go on a StoryWalk®
Read a children’s book while you enjoy a nature walk at several Wake County Park locations. The StoryWalk® Project was created by Anne Ferguson of Montpelier, Vermont, and developed in collaboration with the Kellogg-Hubbard Library. StoryWalk® is a registered service mark owned by Ms. Ferguson.
Take a Mobile Tour
Take a mobile tour and see our parks and preserves through a new lens!
Visit our Parks from Home
Enjoy programming from Wake County park staff from home! Access educational videos, games and more — even when you can't visit the park.
Share why "I Heart Parks"
Please tell us why you love Wake County parks and preserves by filling out a quick survey.
Explore the Natural Resources Inventory Database
The Wake County Natural Resources Inventory Database, known as NRID, is a compilation of wildlife and plant observations recorded at Wake County parks and preserves. Anyone can use it – whether you’re a birdwatcher, teacher, student, citizen scientist or just curious about nature – to:
• Explore data and photos.
• Print checklists.
• Discover fun facts about the species found here.
Payments
All public, group and outreach programs are free. Fees will be charged for camps, Historic Yates Mill tours, shelter rentals, lodge reservations and Robertson Millpond boat rentals.
For programs requiring payment, park locations do not accept cash. Payments can be made on site or in advance with a credit card or debit card. Checks can also be mailed in advance to:
Wake County Parks, Recreation & Open Space
PO Box 550
Suite 1000
Raleigh, NC 27602