I’m really happy to share this one with you today because it was one of those outings that was unexpectedly awesome. Like much cooler than I expected when I went there. This spot has family-friendly trails, a waterfall, lots of tour options, and even dinosaur sculptures. Here’s my full guide to help you plan a visit to the awesome Clark Park, Fayetteville NC. One of Fayetteville’s coolest parks in my opinion. If you have any questions, of course let me know otherwise I hope you have a fun outing there too!
Detailed Guide – How To Visit The Awesome Clark Park, Fayetteville NC
Disclaimer
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FAQ for visiting Clark Park
Where is it located?
Fayetteville, North Carolina.
Is there a cost?
No, it’s free to visit and explore the park.
Is there parking?
Yes, free parking in a lot across from the park.
How long does it take?
About 2 hours to walk the trails, but you can do as many or as little as you want.
What skill level is required?
Beginner – all the trails are flat, easy, and well maintained.
Is it kid-friendly?
Yes. Of course you know your kids best so use your best judgement as far as what is suitable for them.
Is it dog-friendly?
Yes, on a leash.
Who is it good for?
People who want an easy kid-friendly nature outing, trail runners, solo outing, nature lovers.
What should you bring with you?
- Comfortable walking shoes (these are good beginner hiking shoes but any sneakers are fine for this hike)
- Water (I use this insulated one)
- Sun protection
- Lunch or snacks (I always have a couple of these with me when I hike)
- Camera (this is my favorite action camera for outdoor adventures and I use it with this compact selfie stick and tripod)
Before we get started
For even more adventures to help you make the most of your time stationed at Fort Bragg, check out my Ultimate Fort Bragg Bucket List.
How to get there and where to park
You can use ‘Clark Park Nature Center’ in Google Maps and it will take you to the parking area at the end of Sherman Drive.
Another option would be to use ‘Cape Fear River Trail Parking’. But since there are two different parking areas at different ends of that trail, I think it’s better to use the nature center to avoid confusion.
There is a decent size parking lot at the and of the street that you won’t be able to miss.
Parking is free so it’s just a matter of finding a spot and heading over to the park.
To get to the park, you’ll cross the railway lines over to the right and there are signs to guide you.
The trails at Clark Park
There are three short trails as well as part of the longer Cape Fear River Trail which goes through the park. Here’s my full guide for the Cape Fear River Trail as well.
Since they are short and flat, it’s pretty easy to do all three short trails in one visit.
The Bear Trail is my favorite because I found this super cute and creative fairy garden display on the side of the trail. Whoever did it – you’re awesome! It also has really nice views of the Cape Fear River at the back of the trail.
There’s a waterfall which you can see at a lookout by the Nature Center on the Laurel Trail. It’s not one you can swim under or anything but has good lookout points and is cool to see. There is also a nice view of it from a lookout spot on the Bear Trail.
All the trails are very well marked, well maintained, and easy to follow.
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Lots of trail markings to make the trails easy to follow
For the kids
If you need to get the kids out of the house, Clark Park is a great option.
There’s a good size playground by the Nature Center office so even if you don’t want to walk the trails, the kids have a spot to get some energy out on that.
Of course, you can also walk with them on the trails as they’re easy and kid-friendly. One of them has interactive signs for the kids to follow along with.
The Nature Center
If you like nature and are looking for a place to volunteer, the Nature Center has volunteer programs. You can find more information on the programs and the contact information here.
They also offer a lot of different programs for groups and you can find more information about the programs and tours on the same link.
There’s everything from tours to learn about snakes or insects to canoe tours on the river so a lot on offer and something for everyone.
Overall thoughts
Clark Park is probably my favorite park in Fayetteville so far because of the convenient location, difference in scenery (the waterfall is a nice treat), and how much they offer in terms of tours and programs.
I think that fairy garden also just won me over.
It’s certainly a great spot for families when you want a nature outing close by and of course solo adventurers 🙂
The waterfall
Other guides you might enjoy
6 Of The Best Coffee Shops In Fayetteville (And Surrounding Area)
Reservoir Park In Southern Pines, NC – Hello Gorgeous Lake Hike
On Getting Stationed At Fort Bragg – 5 First Impressions Of Fayetteville
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Thank you!
My kids and I stumbled upon Clark Park and had a great couple of hours exploring the Bear Trail, Nature Center and playground. The multiple fairy houses was the added bonus that made my daughter say “this place is so awesome!” We had no idea about the fairy houses on the trail. Such a treat.
That’s so great to hear and must have been a lot of fun to see it through the kids eyes!