I don’t want to jinx it but the weather seems to be warming (and drying) up. I feel like the Titanic meme while saying “it’s been 84 years since I’ve seen sunshine.” Ok, a bit dramatic but dang it feels like it’s been raining forever, right? Now that we have a little sunshine, it’s the perfect time to start getting in some outdoor adventures. I did this one as a mid-week solo adventure last week and today I’m sharing all the details to help you plan your own visit. Here’s a guide on how to plan a visit to Reservoir Park in Southern Pines.
Reservoir Park In Southern Pines, NC – Hello Gorgeous Lake Hike
Disclaimer
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FAQ for visiting Reservoir Park in Southern Pines
Where is it located?
Southern Pines, about an hour from Fayetteville.
How long does it take?
An hour or so at a casual walking pace.
Is it kid friendly?
Yes, and stroller friendly. Of course, you know your kids best so use this guide and your best judgment to decide if it’s good for yours.
Is it dog friendly?
Yes, on a leash.
What skill level is required?
Easy.
What is it good for?
Easy outdoor walk, solo outing, trail run, scenic bicycle ride.
What facilities are available?
Toilets, benches along the trail, covered shelters with tables and grills (for reservation), bicycle repair station.
What should you bring with you?
- Water bottle (I use this one)
- Comfortable walking shoes (any sneakers will work for this hike)
- Camera (this is my favorite action camera for outdoor adventures)
- Sun protection
Before we get started
Find enough adventures to help you make the most of your time living in Fayetteville in my Ultimate Fort Bragg Bucket List.
It’s going to make the adventure planning super easy with a full list of adventure ideas, long weekend destinations, and unique events you don’t want to miss.
How to get there
It’s really easy to find your way there. Use ‘Reservoir Park’ in Google Maps and it will take you directly to the free parking area.
The drive from Fayetteville was about an hour and a really smooth drive on quiet roads with cow farms along the way.
Once you reach the parking lot, you will not be able to miss the lake then you simply follow the path around it.
What to expect at Reservoir Park
The trail itself is a really simple one and very easy to follow – you are really just walking around the lake. There are trail markers along the way though.
It’s super scenic and fun to spot animals on the lake and in some of the swampy looking side areas. I saw a Heron doing some fishing while I was there, as well as turtles and geese.
Turtle getting some sunshine
A Heron fishing for lunch
If you want to get a bit of a workout in, there are a few stations along the trail for exercises. Otherwise, you can just walk and admire the peaceful scenery.
There are a couple of really nice spots with outlooks built further out onto the lake and benches there to soak in the views.
It’s quite popular so expect to see other people around while you’re there too. It was fairly crowded on the weekday when I was there, so I’d imagine it’s more crowded on weekends and you might want to go early.
One of the outlook areas with a seat
One of the exercise stations
Other things you can do at Reservoir Park
There’s no swimming or wading allowed in the lake but you can kayak, paddle board, or go fishing.
What to do after the walk
I visited Dunrovin Country Store which I saw while driving on the way in – it’s easy to spot off the side of the road.
This place was super cool! I think it would be an especially great place to stop if you have kids because there’s a walk through bird sanctuary with all sorts of birds to see. Some of them will chat to you as well.
In the same park you can also see goats, a teacup pig, rabbits, and chickens. Best of all, it’s free.
Inside the store you can get an afternoon ice-cream, snack, or just shop amongst all the interesting things from unique foods to decorations.
Another option would be to head into Southern Pines and if you go there, I recommend Betsy’s Crepes. There’s also a few cute stores to browse in town there.
Dunrovin Country Store
Other guides you might enjoy
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Hey, just read Katie’s post on Reservoir Park in Southern Pines, and it really resonated with me. Her pictures brought back some good vibes, you know? Describing the walking trails and the chill atmosphere – that’s exactly how I see it too. Nice to see someone giving a shoutout to our local hangout. Way to go, Katie!