Smith Creek Park
A serene Wilmington park featuring a 1.3-mile lake loop, playground, and kayak launch. Ideal for walks and family outings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Smith Creek Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene Wilmington park featuring a 1.3-mile lake loop, playground, and kayak launch. Ideal for walks and family outings.
"An amazing park which I just recently discovered. It even has a paddle board/ kayak launch dock."
🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome! Enjoy the 1.3-mile loop, but be mindful of toxic algae warnings.
🛶 Water Activities
Canoe and paddleboard launch available. Swimming is not permitted due to alligators.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Lake Loop Trail
Around the lake
A scenic 1.3-mile paved path offering shade, benches, and beautiful lake views. Perfect for walks and jogs.
Paddleboard & Kayak Launch
Lake access point
Easily launch your watercraft for a serene experience on the lake, surrounded by nature.
Playground & Picnic Area
Near the bathrooms
A shaded playground for kids and a picnic area make this park ideal for family outings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Pet Safety First
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome! Enjoy the 1.3-mile loop, but be mindful of toxic algae warnings.
🛶 Water Activities
Canoe and paddleboard launch available. Swimming is not permitted due to alligators.
🐢 Turtle Spotting
Lots of turtles to admire from the dock and along the lake.
🚶♀️ Paved Walking Path
The 1.3-mile loop is paved, making it accessible for strollers and easy walking.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Dog-Friendly Fun
Leashed dogs are welcome! Enjoy the 1.3-mile loop, but be mindful of toxic algae warnings.
🛶 Water Activities
Canoe and paddleboard launch available. Swimming is not permitted due to alligators.
🐢 Turtle Spotting
Lots of turtles to admire from the dock and along the lake.
🚶♀️ Paved Walking Path
The 1.3-mile loop is paved, making it accessible for strollers and easy walking.
🧺 Picnic Ready
Picnic tables and restrooms are conveniently located near the playground.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Smith Creek Park for its beautiful lake, peaceful atmosphere, and well-maintained paved walking trail. It's a popular spot for dog walkers and families, offering a playground and picnic area. Some anglers note limited fishing success, and all visitors are cautioned about potential toxic algae and the prohibition of swimming due to alligators.
"Went this past week for the first time. I was fishing from the dock. Didn’t catch anything. Lots of turtles and I saw a lot of forage fish in the water - that’s a good sign. Beautiful park, relatively quiet and peaceful. Will return to enjoy the surroundings. Probably won’t fish though. Seems like one of those lakes that is all living room and no kitchen."
Tom Buzalewski
"Beautiful Park. Mostly an easy stroll around a gorgeous lake. Highly recommended"
Reflection Renderings
"An amazing park which I just recently discovered. It even has a paddle board/ kayak launch dock which is awesome. I can’t wait for it to warm up so I can go do that.
The trail is 1.3 miles which loops around the lake and there is plenty of shade and benches.
May be one of the best parks we have."
Alina Bowman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Smith Creek Park is located in Wilmington, NC. It's easily accessible by car and is about 10 minutes from the airport. +1
Yes, there is parking available at the park, often near the playground and picnic areas.
Smith Creek Park is a short drive from downtown Wilmington, making it a convenient escape for a nature break.
Yes, you can use GPS navigation to find Smith Creek Park. Simply enter 'Smith Creek Park, Wilmington, NC' into your preferred mapping app.
While specific directions can vary, the park is generally located in the Ogden area of Wilmington, NC, often accessed via local roads.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Smith Creek Park is a public park and generally does not have an entrance fee for general access.
While specific hours can vary, public parks are typically open from dawn until dusk. It's always a good idea to check local listings for any specific seasonal hours.
No, for general park access and walking the trails, no advance booking is typically required.
The main restrictions involve no swimming due to alligators and keeping pets on a leash. Always be aware of any posted advisories, especially regarding water safety.
Yes, Smith Creek Park has a paddleboard and kayak launch dock, allowing visitors to bring their own watercraft.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The main attraction is the beautiful lake and the 1.3-mile paved loop trail that circles it, offering scenic views and a peaceful environment.
Yes, there is a popular 1.3-mile paved walking trail that loops around the lake, providing shade and benches along the way.
Fishing is allowed at Smith Creek Park, with a dock available. While some visitors report not catching much, others note seeing forage fish and turtles.
No, swimming is not permitted in the lake at Smith Creek Park due to the potential presence of alligators.
Families can enjoy the playground, picnic areas, walking the lake loop, and observing the abundant turtles.
🎫 🐶 Pet-Friendly Information
Yes, Smith Creek Park is very dog-friendly! Dogs are welcome on leashes, and many visitors bring their pets to enjoy the walking trails.
Yes, it's crucial to be aware of potential toxic algae blooms in the lake, which can be lethal to dogs. Always check local advisories before visiting.
While dogs are often seen wading, swimming is not permitted for humans due to alligators. It's best to err on the side of caution and avoid letting dogs swim in the lake, especially if toxic algae is a concern.
Currently, there isn't a dedicated water fountain for dogs, so it's recommended to bring your own water for your pet.
If you see an alligator, maintain a safe distance and do not approach it. Report any sightings to park authorities if necessary.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as while there are restrooms, a dedicated dog water fountain is not available. Keep an eye on children near the water's edge, and be aware of the no-swimming rule.
🐾 Pet Parents
However, extreme caution is advised regarding toxic algae. Always check local news and park advisories before your visit, as these blooms can be deadly to pets. 🎣 Anglers and Water Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trails and Waterways
For those who enjoy being on the water, the park features a dedicated paddleboard and kayak launch dock. This allows easy access for launching your own watercraft to explore the lake. While canoeing and paddleboarding are popular, it's important to remember that swimming is prohibited due to the presence of alligators.
Family Fun and Pet Considerations
Pet owners will find Smith Creek Park to be a welcoming environment. Dogs are permitted on leashes and can enjoy the walking trails. However, a critical safety note for pet owners is the potential for toxic algae blooms in the lake. These blooms can be lethal to dogs, even with brief exposure. It is imperative to check local advisories and news before visiting, especially with pets.
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