Smith Creek Park — Attraction in Castle Hayne

Smith Creek is a beautiful park surrounded by trees with a lake in the middle. A paved loop you can walk around the lake. There are many 🐢 turtles you can come and admire, and you are allowed to catch and release fish. Many people enjoy canoeing or paddleboarding on the lake. Swimming is not permitted due to the possibility of alligators. We never saw any when we went, but that doesn't mean one couldn't show up one day. The other issue, especially dog owners, should be aware of is toxic algae. It is leathal, and your dog doesn't even need to enter the water to succumb to it. Deaths occur within 15 mins. Watch the news and do your research before bringing your pets anywhere near water. There are lots of snakes, though, especially in the spring and summer. There is a picnic area located right next to the public bathrooms. A water fountain is available, and it would be nice if they added one for all of the dogs who come to visit, too. There is a nice playground nestled under trees for the kids. This park has lots to offer for outdoor fun for the whole family. I can see why it is...

There is a man who said his name is Steve burneatt or Barnett (county employee). He told us we couldn’t have our dog in the water nor could we stand in the water below our knees. When he had just passed two women who were in past their knees fishing and said nothing. He told us this and we packed up. We get to our car and he blocked us in with his county truck. Then he said, “oh you go to__________ church, ok” because he saw a sticker on our car. What kind of threat is that?!? We did call the police after he parked his truck blocking us in. He took pictures or video tape of our license plate. The police officer said he knows him well and there have been similar situations with this guy. The county needs to fire this guy before he...

Smith Creek Park is a hidden gem located off Harris Rd just of Gordon Rd. The park offers not only a playground, but clean restrooms, free WiFi, a covered picnic area and a 1.3 mile paved loop around the lake.

The loop is perfect for the casual walker, runner, biker or anything else that requires a flat surface.

If this wasn’t enough already, there is a kayak/paddle board floating launch and great fishing.

Are you not feeling the paved loop? Midway down the loop going clockwise is a nature walk that is reminiscent of a backwoods trail complete with sandy trails.

Dog friendly and plenty of doggy poo bags available around the park.

Not convinced? These are a few “staged” photos from last...