Tucked between Raleigh and Morrisville, Lake Crabtree County Park offers a perfect escape into nature without leaving Wake County. With over 500 acres of recreational space and a beautiful 520-acre lake, this park is a gem for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors—whether on foot or by paddle.
We recently spent the morning at Lake Crabtree, and it turned out to be one of our favorite local adventures. The highlight? Introducing the little guy to kayaking for the first time—and it couldn’t have gone better. You can check out the video we created here. Spoiler alert: smiles and splashes included.
FREE Boat Rentals That Make It Easy
If you’ve never kayaked before, Lake Crabtree is a great place to start. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, the park offers weekend and holiday boat rentals, including:
- Single and tandem kayaks
- Canoes
- Stand-up paddleboards (SUPs)
Rental hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the last boat going out at 4 p.m. Rentals are first-come, first-served, and include life jackets and paddles. It’s a simple, free way to get out on the water and try something new as a family.
Trails, Playgrounds, and Picnic Spots
Not ready to hit the water? No problem. Lake Crabtree has more than 16 miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking, a large playground, volleyball courts, and shaded picnic areas with grills. There’s also a dock for fishing and an observation platform for birdwatching—perfect for quiet moments between adventures.
A Place to Slow Down
What made the trip extra special was how peaceful it all felt. There’s plenty of space to explore, no heavy crowds, and the views of the lake from the shore or kayak are just gorgeous. For our son, it was an exciting first paddle. For us, it was a much-needed pause and a great way to spend time together outside.
