This park offers miles of hiking within Raleigh. You would never realize you were in Raleigh. It’s a great escape from traffic and noise a city can bring.

Nice place for a quick weekend getaway.

This campground is right on a lake allowing for drive in campground with a body of water to swim, kayak, and enjoy only 100 yards away. Showers, bathrooms, and running drinking water is nearby. Campgrounds are close but separated by trees and forest to create privacy.

I have stayed at the lodges thrice and once ended up sleeping in my hammock. Good variety in hiking trail distances.

there are historic cabins with cots to sleep on

there is electricity in the cabins.

The campgrounds close at 9pm! So you have to be in the park by 9 before the gate closes. Nice mountain bike trails though and a lovely park!

Nice place great hiking or running trails

Umstead is an awesome place to come for the weekend whether you are into camping, hiking, running, or biking. There are a wide variety of single track to larger sand/dirt paths. My cross country team will come here for long day. There are pavilions that are great for cooking or serving a large brunch after our run. Would recommend!

I've been to this park over a dozen times to run, and every time seems better than the previous one. Depending on where you park, you can access excellent 8-14 mile loops on the main gravel paths. The single track trails will keep you entertained for quite some time. Consider bringing your bike with you too!

Umstead is conveniently located in the heart of Raleigh, NC. It seems to be an outdoor oasis as you can get lost in the woods with the hustle and bustle of the city all around you. The only bummer is the occasional airplane you will inevitably hear above you as the park is located right next to RDU international airport. Having said that, if you need a quick woods getaway and don't have much time, Umstead offers a fantastic network of trails and more!