Park at Flat Rock
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Park at Flat Rock

4.8
·1k reviews·Flat Rock, United States

A former golf course transformed into a 66-acre dog-friendly nature park with playgrounds and scenic walking paths.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls

CrowdLow
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Park at Flat Rock

Park at Flat Rock

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A former golf course transformed into a 66-acre dog-friendly nature park with playgrounds and scenic walking paths.

4.8
(1k reviews)

"This has to be the cleanest, most well maintained, manicured, park I've ever visited!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Your Own Doggie Bags

Dispensers are not always stocked. Be prepared to clean up after your furry friend! :dog: :wastebasket:

Watch for Flooding

Areas near the creek can flood after rain. Stick to higher trails if unsure. :warning:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Expansive Walking Trails

Expansive Walking Trails

Throughout the park

Miles of paved paths wind through former golf course grounds, offering scenic views and abundant nature.

Dual-Zone Playground

Dual-Zone Playground

Central park area

Two distinct play areas cater to toddlers and older kids, ensuring fun for all ages.

Serene Creek Views

Serene Creek Views

Along the creek

Benches overlook babbling brooks and lily ponds, offering peaceful spots for relaxation and picnics.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Park at Flat Rock

Be aware of potential flooding, especially after heavy rain, as some areas can become inaccessible. While trails are generally well-maintained, caution is advised near creek beds. Bring your own doggie bags, as dispensers are not consistently available.

Playground & Picnic Perks

The park boasts separate playgrounds for toddlers and older children, making it a hit with families. Covered picnic tables and pavilions are available for rent, perfect for gatherings. Remember to pack your own supplies as amenities can be limited.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful strolls
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour light, cooler temps
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Harry Olson Trail (Flat Rock Park > Manayunk)- does it actually exist?

Bring Your Own Doggie Bags

Dispensers are not always stocked. Be prepared to clean up after your furry friend! :dog: :wastebasket:

Watch for Flooding

Areas near the creek can flood after rain. Stick to higher trails if unsure. :warning:

reddit.com

Flatrock cautionary tale

Kid-Friendly Fun

Two playgrounds cater to different age groups, making it a great family outing. :child:

Picnic Paradise

Rent a pavilion or find a bench for a relaxing meal amidst nature. :sandwich:

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Your Own Doggie Bags

Dispensers are not always stocked. Be prepared to clean up after your furry friend! :dog: :wastebasket:

Watch for Flooding

Areas near the creek can flood after rain. Stick to higher trails if unsure. :warning:

Kid-Friendly Fun

Two playgrounds cater to different age groups, making it a great family outing. :child:

Picnic Paradise

Rent a pavilion or find a bench for a relaxing meal amidst nature. :sandwich:

Bug Spray Recommended

Some visitors note that the park can be buggy, especially during warmer months. :bug:

What Travellers Say

4.8
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Park at Flat Rock is a highly-rated community park, praised for its cleanliness, extensive paved walking trails, and excellent dual-zone playground for children. Visitors appreciate the serene creek views and the park's transformation from a former golf course. A minor drawback mentioned is the inconsistent availability of doggie bag dispensers.

"Cool local park. Use to be a golf ⛳️ course that is now reclaimed as community nature park. Lots of birds and park wildlife. Fun playground (one for little kids / toddlers and another for 5 years and up)"

Greg Kuebler

"This has to be the cleanest, most well maintained, manicured, park I've ever visited! And it's HUGE! It seems like you could walk forever on the paved pathways...
I already found MY favorite spot though, it's a bench overlooking the creek... I can sit and relax with to the sounds of the water as it babbles along over & around the rocks, soothing my frayed nerves. That would be a perfect spot to have a small picnic for one or two, sandwiches & chips or a fast food bag of food!
They have an area in the center which has these information posters, showing the different types of plants, birds and such you may see there... I wouldn't be surprised to see deer grazing in the meadow or an occasional bear wandering through! (I saw a HUGE bear paw print in the mud in Jackson Park once, and it's right behind the courthouse downtown!)
My dog loves it as well, but BE SURE TO BRING YOUR OWN DOGGIE BAGS, as this is the ONLY park I've ever seen in Hendersonville that doesn't have them. Or if they do I never found them!
I subtracted a star for that reason.
In this area, parks are more for dogs then for people it seems, which is why they all have the little doggie bag dispensers along with trash cans to put them in. I always see far more DOGS than KIDS in parks here,
like 20 to 1! And this park has all the "clean up after your dog" signs, but NO poop bags to do it with, so I feel like there are probably lots of little surprises left by dogs whose owners expected there to be bags but there aren't any, so watch your step! 😮💩🤬
I really feel like they should have signs that read, "Please clean up after your kids" as well!!
🤔🤨
There are covered picnic tables, and pavilions you can rent for parties and such. There are benches along the paved paths to stop for a rest on if you need to. Duck ponds, tiny babbling brooks and a lot of unique plants &v wildflowers growing around and IN the water
Overall it is a very nice park. If they add the doggie bag dispensers (or if I find them there!) then I will change my rating from 4 to 5 stars, because it will truly be a 5 Star Park then! So please, give us the 🐕‍🦺💩baggies! 😂
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟"

Raven Black

"I really liked the experience here. Nice clean welcome area with bathrooms, helpful staff. A lily pond, lots of pretty flowers and shrubbery along the trail. Play area for kids. I would just prefer a little more shade, but that is personal preference."

Laura Robinson

What People Like

Clean and well-maintained
Great playgrounds
Long paved trails

What People Dislike

Inconsistent doggie bags

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Park at Flat Rock is located in Hendersonville, NC. It's easily accessible by car, with ample parking available on-site. Use GPS navigation for the most direct route. Reddit

Public transportation options to Park at Flat Rock may be limited. It's best to check local Hendersonville transit schedules for routes that may service the area. Driving is the most common method of access. Reddit

The park offers parking facilities, though they can fill up during peak times. Arriving earlier in the day is recommended, especially on weekends. Reddit

Park at Flat Rock is a public park and generally does not have an entrance fee. Enjoy the amenities and natural beauty without admission costs. Reddit

While parking is available, large vehicles or RVs might find it challenging to navigate or park, especially during busy periods. It's advisable to check with park management if you plan to visit with an oversized vehicle. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Park at Flat Rock is typically open from dawn until dusk, offering ample time for visitors to enjoy its grounds. Always check local listings for any seasonal changes or special event hours. Reddit

No, as a public park, Park at Flat Rock does not require advance ticket bookings for general entry. You can visit anytime during operating hours. Reddit

General entry is usually unrestricted during park hours. However, specific areas might have temporary closures due to weather or maintenance. Always be mindful of posted signs. Reddit

Yes, Park at Flat Rock offers covered picnic tables and pavilions that can be rented for parties and events. It's recommended to book these in advance, especially for popular dates. Reddit

The park features paved walking paths that are generally accessible. However, some natural areas or trails might be uneven. It's best to inquire about specific accessibility needs beforehand. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Enjoy walking and running on paved trails, picnicking, exploring the playgrounds, and observing local wildlife and flora. It's a great spot for a relaxing nature walk. Reddit

Yes, Park at Flat Rock is dog-friendly! Dogs are welcome, but owners are reminded to keep them on a leash and clean up after them. Reddit

The park features a great playground with separate areas for toddlers and older children (5+ years), making it a hit with families. Reddit

Yes, clean restrooms are available at the park, often located near the welcome area and playgrounds. Reddit

Visitors have reported seeing various birds, and the park's natural setting suggests potential sightings of deer and other small wildlife. Keep an eye out for unique plants and wildflowers too. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no restaurants located directly within Park at Flat Rock. It's a nature park focused on outdoor activities. Reddit

Absolutely! Park at Flat Rock is an ideal spot for picnics. There are covered picnic tables and pavilions available, some of which can be rented for events. Reddit

Bring your own food, drinks, and any necessary serving utensils. Don't forget blankets if you plan to sit on the grass. Remember to pack out all your trash. Reddit

You'll find various dining options in the nearby town of Hendersonville. It's recommended to grab food before or after your visit to the park. Reddit

Park regulations regarding alcohol can vary. It's best to check the official park rules or local ordinances for Hendersonville to confirm if alcohol is permitted. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The creek beds with babbling water, the vibrant flowers and shrubbery, and the scenic walking paths offer great photo opportunities. The playgrounds can also make for fun family shots. Reddit

Yes, with its diverse plant life, water features, and potential for wildlife sightings, Park at Flat Rock is a good location for nature photography. Reddit

Late afternoon often provides beautiful golden hour lighting for photography. However, morning light can also be lovely for capturing the park's tranquility. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks to ensure safety and the enjoyment of other visitors. It's advisable to check park regulations or local FAA guidelines. Reddit

Yes, you can photograph the wildlife, but always maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing the animals. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Park at Flat Rock is a fantastic destination for families. The dual-zone playground is a major highlight, with separate areas for toddlers and older children, ensuring fun for everyone. The paved walking paths are stroller-friendly, making it easy to navigate with little ones. Reddit

Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at one of the covered pavilions or picnic tables. Remember to bring your own doggie bags if you're bringing a furry family member, as dispensers are not always available. Be mindful of potential flooding near the creek after rain, and stick to the main trails for safety. Reddit

🐶 Dog Owners

This park is a haven for dogs, with plenty of space to roam and explore. The dog-friendly atmosphere means your canine companion will likely meet many new friends. The paved trails are great for walks, and the open spaces allow for some off-leash play in designated areas (check local rules). Reddit

Crucially, bring your own doggie bags. While signs encourage cleanup, the park doesn't consistently provide bag dispensers. This is a common point of feedback from visitors. Be prepared to pack out what you pack in to keep the park clean for everyone. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Nature Walkers & Picnickers

For those seeking a peaceful escape, Park at Flat Rock offers a serene environment. The expansive paved walking paths are perfect for a leisurely stroll, allowing you to admire the flora and fauna. Find a quiet bench overlooking the creek for a moment of reflection or enjoy a delightful picnic at one of the available tables. Reddit

While the park is generally well-maintained, be aware of potential bugginess, especially during warmer months, and consider bringing insect repellent. The park's transformation from a golf course means you'll find a unique blend of open meadows and naturalized areas to explore. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Former Golf Course Reimagined

Park at Flat Rock boasts a unique history, having been transformed from a golf course into a vibrant community nature park. This transformation has left a legacy of expansive, manicured grounds that now serve as walking paths and open meadows. The wide, paved trails are a testament to its former life, offering easy accessibility for strollers, wheelchairs, and leisurely strolls. Visitors often remark on how easy it is to 'walk forever' on these paths, enjoying the well-maintained landscape. Reddit

The park's design retains elements that hint at its past, with gentle undulations and open spaces. This history contributes to the park's appeal for those seeking a peaceful environment for walking, running, or simply enjoying the outdoors. The blend of open fields and more natural, wooded areas provides a diverse setting for exploration and relaxation. Reddit

Family Fun at the Playground

The Park at Flat Rock playground is a major draw for families with young children. It features two distinct play areas, thoughtfully designed to cater to different age groups. One section is specifically for toddlers and younger children, offering age-appropriate swings, slides, and climbing structures. The other area is geared towards older kids, with more challenging climbing walls, tunnels, and larger play equipment. Reddit

Reviewers consistently praise the playground for its cleanliness and maintenance, making it a safe and enjoyable space for kids to burn off energy. The presence of both areas ensures that children of various ages can find something engaging to do. It's a perfect spot for parents to relax on nearby benches while their children play, making it a popular destination for family outings in Hendersonville. Reddit

Navigating Nature and Potential Hazards

While Park at Flat Rock is a beautiful natural space, visitors should be aware of potential hazards, particularly related to water. Reddit users have shared cautionary tales about the park experiencing significant flooding, especially after heavy rainfall. In such conditions, the 'flat rock' area itself can be submerged, and the creek beds can become dangerous. Reddit

It's crucial to heed any posted warnings and exercise caution when exploring near the water. Sticking to higher, paved trails is recommended during or after periods of heavy rain. While the park is generally well-maintained, the natural environment means visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and potential risks. Reddit

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