They say, "good things come in threes." For the residents of Creedmoor and Granville County, the better statement may be that "good health comes in threes." That is because there are three parks that can help you get outdoors and get in shape. And unlike many parks found to our south, these parks are not built in our community, but rather presented to us by Mother Nature – allowing us to take advantage of this region that is Uniquely Carolina.
The largest and most spectacular park is located at Lake Rogers. Located at 1711 Lake Road (Hwy 56) just northwest of the City of Creedmoor, Lake Rogers is a shallow lake covering 175 acres, has 4 picnic shelters with additional picnic tables scattered throughout the park. When fully opened after the stay at home order, patrons can also take advantage of a playground area, a concession stand with boat rentals and light snacks and drinks, and public restrooms.
The park is currently undergoing a facelift and expansion – a project that will more than double the current 7.5 acre area that residents and visitors come and explore.
Phase 1 was completed in April, 2019 and features a new main shelter area with enhanced pedestrian access and substantial landscape upgrades. A new park sign monument was constructed in June.
Phase 2 construction which began in mid-summer 2019, will expand opportunities to city-owned property located on the west side of Lake Rogers with construction of a boardwalk across the lake that will provide access to planned fishing platforms and 3200′ of primitive walking trails.
Future plans call for a community amphitheater that will be home for concerts, playas and other performances.
Rogers Lake offers fishing, boating, hiking, and a playground for the kids. Additionally, the park is connected to wifi, so it is not unusual to have business people and students enjoying the North Carolina weather while also taking care of business.
The most traditional is park Harris Park. Named after the late Reverend Iley Harris, the founder and pastor of Harris Missionary Baptist Church, Harris Park is open to the public from sunrise to sunset and features a large picnic shelter (20×24) with two picnic tables, a playground with swings and benches. Parking is conveniently located at the front of the park and is ADA compliant with several spaces designated for handicapped parking. At Harris Park you can come and relax or get in a few steps as well.
The third park is a bit more unique. The Gauntlet Fitness & Walking Trail officially opened in the spring of 2016 offering Creedmoor residents a fresh alternative to outdoor recreation and fitness. Located at 2186 Brassfield Road in Creedmoor, the 1.1 mile trail is outfitted with a variety of fitness stations designed to challenge hikers. The trail is ideally suited for the 76.8-acre site. The Gauntlet is the work of Jonathan Gaudette, who, as part of his Eagle Scout project, created, designed, and led the construction of the project along with countless volunteers and benefactors.
The trail is open from dawn to dusk every day throughout the year.
For information on any of the parks in the Creedmoor area including shelter reservations, boat rentals and boat launch fees at Rogers Lake, please contact Creedmoor Parks & Recreation at (919) 528-3332.