Umstead State Park Family Guide

William B. Umstead State Park sits right in the middle of the Triangle, a 5,579-acre oasis of forest, creeks, and lakes bordered by Raleigh, Cary, and Durham. It's the park I recommend most often to families because it's so close, so accessible, and so genuinely beautiful. Whether you want a 20-minute stroll or a full-day adventure, Umstead delivers.

Park Overview

Umstead has two main sections: Crabtree Creek (accessible from Glenwood Avenue / US-70) and Reedy Creek (accessible from Harrison Avenue in Cary or I-40). Both sections have their own visitor centers, parking, and trail systems, though the trails connect internally.

Hours: 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. (summer) or 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. (winter).

Cost: Free admission. Free parking.

Best Trails for Families

Pott's Branch Trail (1.3 miles one way, Easy)

My top recommendation for families with young kids. The Pott's Branch Trail starts at the Crabtree Creek entrance and follows a gentle creek through mixed hardwood forest. It's wide, mostly flat, and well-graded. You can do an out-and-back for a 2.6-mile walk, or connect to other trails for a longer loop.

Sal's Branch Trail (2.75-mile loop, Easy to Moderate)

Starting from the Reedy Creek entrance, Sal's Branch Trail is a lovely loop through pine and hardwood forest. There's a modest hill at the midpoint, but nothing that should trouble school-age kids. The trail is well-blazed with signage at intersections.

Sycamore Trail (7-mile loop, Moderate)

For families with older kids who want a real hike, the Sycamore Trail loop is excellent. It passes through diverse habitats, crosses several creeks, and has some rolling terrain. Allow 3-4 hours and bring plenty of water and snacks.

Company Mill Trail (5.8 miles round trip, Moderate)

This trail leads from the Crabtree Creek side down to Big Lake, one of three man-made lakes in the park. The lake is stocked with bass, bluegill, and catfish, making it a fun destination if your kids like fishing. The trail has some elevation change, especially on the return trip.

Fishing

Umstead has three lakes: Big Lake, Sycamore Lake, and Reedy Creek Lake. All are open for fishing and stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, and catfish. You'll need a North Carolina fishing license for anyone age 16 and up. Kids under 16 fish free.

Tips:

Bank fishing only. No private boats allowed.

Rent a rowboat at Big Lake (seasonal, around $5/hour, first-come first-served).

Bait and tackle are not sold in the park. Stop at a bait shop before you arrive.

Big Lake is the most accessible, with a parking area nearby off the main park road.

Horseback Riding

Umstead is one of the few Triangle parks with dedicated equestrian trails. If your family rides, or if you want to try a guided trail ride, there are about 13 miles of bridle trails. Several stables in the area offer guided rides that enter the park.

Camping

The Maple Hill Lodge group campsite is available for scout troops and organized groups. Individual camping is not available at Umstead, which surprises many people. For family camping, I'd suggest Falls Lake or Jordan Lake recreation areas instead.

What to Know Before You Go

Crabtree Creek Entrance (Raleigh side)

Off Glenwood Avenue / US-70

Larger parking lot, visitor center with restrooms and exhibits

Access to Pott's Branch, Company Mill, Sycamore trails

Picnic shelters available (reserve in advance for weekends)

Reedy Creek Entrance (Cary side)

Off Harrison Avenue via I-40 Exit 287

Smaller visitor center with restrooms

Access to Sal's Branch Trail, multi-use trail to Reedy Creek Lake

Connects to the Reedy Creek Greenway (paved, great for strollers and bikes)

Seasonal Highlights

Spring: Dogwood and redbud blooming along trails. Wildflower walks are magical.

Summer: Deep shade makes Umstead one of the cooler hiking options. Arrive early.

Fall: The park is at its most beautiful during fall foliage, typically mid-October to early November.

Winter: Quiet trails, visible wildlife, and crisp air. Layer up and enjoy the solitude.

Practical Tips

Parking fills up fast on nice weekends. Arrive before 10 a.m. or try the Reedy Creek entrance if Crabtree Creek is full.

Bikes are allowed on multi-use trails but not on hiking-only trails. Check trail maps for details.

No playground in the park. Combine your visit with a stop at a nearby playground (Bond Park in Cary or Shelley Lake in Raleigh) if you need one.

Trail maps are available at the visitor centers and on the NC State Parks app.

Combining Umstead with Other Activities

Umstead's Reedy Creek entrance connects directly to the Reedy Creek Greenway, a paved trail that's perfect for strollers and bikes. If the hiking trails feel too rugged for your youngest, the greenway offers a smooth, accessible alternative right at the park boundary. You can also continue on the greenway to NCMA (North Carolina Museum of Art) park for outdoor sculptures and more paved walking.

From the Crabtree Creek entrance, you're just minutes from Crabtree Valley Mall and several family restaurants, making it easy to combine a morning hike with a lunch outing.

Umstead is a gift. It's wild enough to feel like an escape and close enough to visit on a Tuesday afternoon. Take your family and go.

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