Lake Crabtree County Park - Raleigh
By Chelsea Nallenweg
Lake Crabtree County Park has been a Triangle favorite for decades! Spread across 215 acres next to a 520-acre flood control lake, the park gives visitors plenty of options for outdoor activity. And since the park is just five minutes from RDU Airport, it’s an easy stop if you’re waiting to pick someone up or have time to fill before a flight!
There is a nice playground that is tucked into the trees, which has a short trail that leads right to the lake. This trail is not paved. The playground includes two modern climbing structures, multiple slides, and a soft rubber floor. There are also multiple picnic shelters and volleyball courts.
Down in the open floodplain there is a perfect open grass area for people to fly kites, toss a frisbee, or kick around a soccer ball. It’s also a popular spot for walking dogs on leashes. There is also a fishing pier and boat rentals.
In June 2025, the Wake County Board of Commissioners approved a 20-year lease with the Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority that protects public access to the park’s most loved spaces. The agreement secures nearly 70 acres, including the central 28-acre section with trails, picnic areas, a playground, a pier, volleyball courts, and waterfront access. Visitors will still be able to enjoy greenway connections through the park to Cary, Morrisville, Umstead State Park, and the 286 property via the Lake Trail.
What’s changing is the 148-acre section between the park and I-40, which once housed the mountain biking and hiking trail network. These trails are now closed. That land will be transformed into a new recreation and wellness destination. Plans include water sports, outdoor recreation facilities, family activities, retail shops, restaurants, and hotels to create a space designed to serve both the community and the growing demand at RDU.
Lake Crabtree County Park continues to be a special place where everyone can enjoy the outdoors, relax by the water, and get active outside. With so many opportunities for recreation and new developments, the park is for sure going to be a must-visit in the Triangle!
Posted by The Honeycutt Team on
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