Dorton Park
A recently renovated, inclusive city park with playgrounds, disc golf, and scenic greenways for active fun.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls
Dorton Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A recently renovated, inclusive city park with playgrounds, disc golf, and scenic greenways for active fun.
"Dorton Park is a destination, not just a stopover, delivering fun for all ages. "
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
Lots of walking paths and greenways to explore!
☀️ Pack for the weather
Can get hot, especially during disc golf or 5Ks.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Inclusive Playgrounds
Multiple locations
Features a toddler-specific enclosed playground and other areas for older kids, ensuring fun for all ages and abilities.
Disc Golf Course
18-hole course
An expanded 18-hole disc golf course offers a challenging and enjoyable experience for enthusiasts.
Afton Run Greenway
Connects to West Cabarrus YMCA
A newly completed half-mile trail perfect for leisurely walks, runs, or bike rides with scenic views.
Inclusive Adult Changing Table
Near restrooms
The first of its kind in Cabarrus County, this facility enhances accessibility for individuals with disabilities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Park Renovations & Accessibility
Connecting Greenways & Nearby Attractions
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
Lots of walking paths and greenways to explore!
☀️ Pack for the weather
Can get hot, especially during disc golf or 5Ks.
🧺 Bring picnic supplies
Several pavilions available for a relaxing meal.
🛝 Check out the playgrounds
Great for kids of all ages, including a toddler-specific area.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear comfortable shoes
Lots of walking paths and greenways to explore!
☀️ Pack for the weather
Can get hot, especially during disc golf or 5Ks.
🧺 Bring picnic supplies
Several pavilions available for a relaxing meal.
🛝 Check out the playgrounds
Great for kids of all ages, including a toddler-specific area.
🔗 Explore the greenways
Connects to Afton Village for more activities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Dorton Park is widely praised as a recently renovated gem offering diverse activities for all ages. Visitors highlight its excellent playgrounds, inclusive facilities, and well-maintained greenways. While some suggest alternative disc golf courses, the park's overall appeal for families and outdoor enthusiasts is undeniable, making it a highly recommended local destination.
"Nice paved path to walk the dogs on. It felt safe and close to a nice neighborhood. At first I thought the walking paths were very short, but it was much longer than I anticipated (and I couldn’t even tell you where the end was)."
Michaela Cotton
"Hidden Gem in Concord: Dorton Park Delivers Fun for All Ages
My wife and I, residents of Harrisburg, North Carolina, stumbled upon Dorton Park while heading to Afton Ridge for shopping—and what a delightful surprise it was! Tucked behind a charming neighborhood, this recently renovated park (reopened March 25, 2025, after a $60 million bond-funded overhaul) is a haven for outdoor lovers.
Trails & Greenways:
The park’s asphalt trails weave seamlessly into the Coddle Creek Greenway, offering smooth walks or bike rides with scenic views. A new 0.75-mile greenway extension connects to Poplar Tent Road, perfect for longer strolls. Two new pedestrian bridges over Afton Run stream add to the charm, making exploration even more enjoyable.
Amenities Galore:
- Playgrounds & Sports: The park boasts multiple playgrounds, including one enclosed for toddlers (a rarity!) and others for older kids. Sports enthusiasts will love the resurfaced tennis courts (one with pickleball lines), a multi-purpose field for football or soccer, and an 18-hole disc golf course (expanded from 9 holes).
- Family-Friendly Facilities: We were impressed by the six clean, family-style restrooms—each a private room—and the park’s groundbreaking inclusive adult changing table, the first of its kind in Cabarrus County.
- Picnic Spots: Several pavilions with tables dot the park, ideal for picnics or gatherings.
Accessibility & Extras:
The expanded parking lot (now 180 spaces) ensures easy access, while the stream restoration and lush landscaping enhance the natural vibe. The park’s thoughtful design—like ADA-compliant paths and the Willow’s Wish Foundation-funded changing table—shows Concord’s commitment to inclusivity.
My Final Thoughts:
Dorton Park is more than just a stopover; it’s a destination. Whether you’re into disc golf, pickleball, or lazy picnics, this park delivers. We’ll definitely be back—maybe next time to try the new Gametime playground or the greenway at sunset!"
Preston Bessire
"This park is awesome! It is safe for my autistic son who is 4.5 years old. I don't worry about him falling off of any open parts of the park. Plenty to do for you ger and older children."
Jacqueline Ovens
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dorton Park is located at 5790 Poplar Tent Road in Concord, NC. It's easily accessible by car, with an expanded parking lot offering 180 spaces.
Information on public transport routes to Dorton Park is limited. Driving is the most common and recommended method of access.
The park features paved walking paths and connects to the Coddle Creek Greenway and Afton Run Greenway, making it easy to explore on foot or by bike.
Yes, Dorton Park is adjacent to Afton Village, which offers dining and shopping options. It also connects to the West Cabarrus YMCA.
Absolutely! Dorton Park has an expanded parking lot with 180 spaces to accommodate visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Dorton Park is a public park and offers free admission for all visitors.
Park hours are generally from dawn to dusk, but it's always a good idea to check the official Concord Parks and Recreation website for any specific seasonal or event-related closures.
For general park access, no advance booking is required. However, if you plan to reserve a picnic shelter for a large group, you may need to contact the park administration.
Dorton Park hosts various community events, including 5Ks and sports activities. Keep an eye on local event listings or the city's park and recreation page for updates.
Yes, with its diverse amenities like playgrounds, sports courts, and walking trails, Dorton Park is an excellent destination for a full day of outdoor recreation.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy playgrounds, tennis courts (with pickleball lines), a multi-purpose field, an 18-hole disc golf course, and walking/biking on paved trails and greenways. +1
Yes, Dorton Park has multiple playgrounds, including a specially enclosed one for toddlers and a new Gametime playground designed for safety.
Yes, the paved paths are great for walking dogs, and the park is generally considered safe and pleasant for pets.
The park features an inclusive adult changing table, ADA-compliant paths, and playgrounds designed for children of all abilities.
Yes, one of the tennis courts has been resurfaced and includes pickleball lines, making it available for pickleball play.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Dorton Park itself does not have on-site restaurants, but it offers several picnic shelters with tables, perfect for bringing your own food.
Afton Village, located near the park, offers dining options such as Afton Pub. Classy Scoops Ice Cream is also nearby for a sweet treat.
Absolutely! The park has several pavilions with tables, making it an ideal spot for picnics and gatherings.
While not a regular feature, food trucks may be present during special events or festivals held at the park. It's best to check event schedules.
Packing a picnic is highly recommended. Consider bringing sandwiches, snacks, and drinks to enjoy at one of the many picnic shelters.
📸 📸 Photography
The new Afton Run Greenway, the scenic walking trails, and the playgrounds offer great opportunities for photos. The golden hour light in the late afternoon is particularly beautiful.
Yes, with its restored stream areas and lush landscaping, the park provides pleasant scenes for nature photography, especially along the greenways.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's advisable to check with Concord Parks and Recreation for specific regulations regarding drone operation within the park.
Family portraits, action shots of disc golf or sports, and scenic landscape photos are common. The inclusive playgrounds also make for heartwarming family photos.
The inclusive adult changing table is a unique feature that might be of interest for specific types of photography related to accessibility. The musical flowers and drums on the playground are also fun for capturing children's joy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the playgrounds, families can enjoy picnics at the available shelters, explore the Afton Run Greenway, or simply relax on the paved walking paths. The park's commitment to inclusivity, with features like the adult changing table, makes it a welcoming space for diverse family needs.
👟 Active Adults & Sports Enthusiasts
The Afton Run Greenway and Coddle Creek Greenway provide miles of paved trails perfect for running, cycling, or brisk walks.
Whether you're a seasoned athlete or just looking for a good workout, Dorton Park provides the facilities and environment to enjoy your favorite outdoor activities. 🐶 Dog Owners
While there isn't a dedicated dog park area, the general park grounds and connecting greenways are perfect for leashed strolls. Remember to always clean up after your pet and be mindful of other park visitors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Disc Golf at Dorton Park
One Reddit user mentioned that while Dorton Park's course is available, they recommended heading into Charlotte to play Nevin and Nest for a potentially better experience, suggesting Dorton might be considered 'trash' by some.
If you're planning to play, be aware of the course layout and consider bringing your preferred discs. The park's natural setting adds to the appeal of playing disc golf here.
Family Fun and Inclusivity
A standout feature is the park's commitment to inclusivity, highlighted by the installation of the first inclusive adult changing table in Cabarrus County. This facility is designed to assist individuals with disabilities, making the park more accessible and comfortable for a wider range of visitors.
Parents have shared positive feedback, noting that the park feels safe for children with special needs, such as autism, due to its thoughtful design and lack of open, hazardous areas.
Greenways and Outdoor Recreation
These greenways extend the park's recreational footprint, allowing visitors to enjoy longer excursions and explore the surrounding areas. The Afton Run Greenway specifically links Dorton Park to the West Cabarrus YMCA and the charming Afton Village, opening up opportunities for a combined park visit with nearby amenities.
+1Beyond the greenways, the park offers resurfaced tennis courts (some with pickleball lines), a multi-purpose field for soccer or football, and ample paved paths for leisurely strolls.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit