Best Parks for the Nature Loving Family in Cary, North Carolina
When my family and I moved to Cary, North Carolina from the mountains of Colorado, I quickly put my head down and did some research on the most enriching parks for my two toddler boys to explore and enjoy. I don’t know about you but we love running around, identifying trees, pretending goblins hide in tree trunks, and appreciating what each season brings. My oldest was born on a horse ranch so getting our hands dirty is actually something we seek out. Can you relate?
While we aren’t in the mountains here in the Triangle, there are so many options for families who love the outdoors like us. These are just too good to gate keep.
So, here is my list of some of our favorite spots for the nature loving family in Cary, North Carolina:
PRAIRIE RIDGE ECOSTATION
You might feel surprised as I was to drive through an industrial village and take a turn into the most magical place for kids to interact with the natural world around them. If your kid loves mud kitchens, digging, and building forts, this is the spot for you.
Why we love it:
Nestled within the woods this space feels like a safe place for kids to run and explore with natural boundaries to keep parents at ease
They have story times and nature craft days - find them listed on their website
In the summer, their water play station is a great cool down
No need to bring your own tools - sheet pans, bowls, spoons, shovels, you name it - they have it!
I love taking a stroll through the eco station path before we get to the playspace for my own deep breath and nature walk ;)
HEMLOCK BLUFFS NATURE PRESERVE
This spot is one of my favorites to go to often to observe and talk about the difference in beauty each season brings. With manageable hikes for littles, fun stairs and boardwalks, overlooks that make you feel like you are in the mountains - it’s a pretty incredible spot. Not only that but after your hike, the nature center provides educational and interactive opportunities for children to learn about the ecosystem of what they just saw.
Why we love it:
It is a great opportunity to build up endurance in “hiking”. The shortest loop is .8 miles and is attainable for 18+ months
The stairs and boardwalks are fun!
There is a small scale nature play space for kids 4 and under when you enter
They have a kinetic sand interactive activity in the Nature Center that is always a hit!
PRO TIP:
Ask the front desk to borrow a nature backpack before you start your hike to learn about a specific interest such as trees, insects, etc.
HISTORIC YATES MILL COUNTY PARK
We had a blast exploring this park in the fall. The walk to the Mill is a short one and you can continue of the nature trail if you’re feeling like it! Before heading out to hike - spend some time learning about the operable water powered gristmill. We made a little song about “the mill crushing the wheat!” and sang it all the way to the Mill - that was a lot of fun.
Why we love it:
The education center is interactive and full of hands-on learning activities
There is a nature scavenger hunt you can ask for at the front desk which is a fun nature walk motivator
It’s simply stunning! The Mill is amazing to see close up and the views around the lake make you feel immersed in nature
PRO TIP:
After your adventure, head across the street for some delicious ice cream at Howling Cow - NC State Creamery!
