The Crabtree Creek Entrance off US 70 is located at 8801 Glenwood Avenue, approximately ten miles from downtown Raleigh on the western side of Wake County. A short drive along Umstead Parkway brings you to the visitor center where a small museum provides exhibits on the history of the park and its origins.

Amenities

Located on more than 5,000 acres between Interstate 40 and US Highway 70, the park offers campgrounds, three man-made lakes, picnic areas, shelters and fireplaces. Hiking and horseback trails crisscross the property.

Several parking lots provide access to trails, one of which leads to Big Lake where boating and fishing are available.  Boat rentals are available during open hours for the Boathouse.

Picnic tables and unreserved shelters can be used free of charge, but reservations are suggested for the two popular picnic shelters.  Restrooms and drinking water are nearby.  Campsites are available for reservation by individuals and groups.

Park History

Umstead Park is part of the North Carolina State Park system and was originally purchased in 1934 under the Resettlement Administration. It opened to the public in 1937 and was purchased by the State of North Carolina for $1 when the General Assembly made its first state parks division appropriation in the 1940s. The park is named for former Governor William Bradley Umstead (1953-1954) in honor of his conservation efforts.

Hours

The park’s Crabtree Creek Entrance is open:
November-February: 7 a.m. – 6 p.m.
March, April, September, October: 7 a.m. – 8 p.m.
May - August: 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.
It is closed Christmas Day.

The park office/visitor center is open 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and closed Christmas Day.

Official Website: http://www.ncparks.gov/william-b-umstead-state-park

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 919-571-4170