Planning Your Visit

Durham County Open Space parks and preserves protect some of the most beautiful and remarkable natural areas in our region. They are also wild places, home to sensitive species and habitats, an array of native wild animals, varied and challenging terrain, and changing weather conditions. To ensure a safe, responsible, and enjoyable visit, please note the following information.

 

Park and Preserve Rules:

Only visit parks and preserves during permitted hours. For current hours, please visit the website for the particular site you would like to visit. 

Pets MUST be leashed at all times - even if your pet is well-behaved. This is important for visitor safety, pet safety, and the protection of sensitive natural resources, and is strictly enforced. Service animals are excepted. 

Removal of any items is prohibited. For questions about research and special permissions, please contact our Open Space Specialist at dabradley@dconc.gov or 919-943-3997. 

Littering, fires, alcohol, drugs, and tobacco/nicotine products are prohibited.

Do not disturb or harass wildlife. Doing so is illegal and a good way to get bit, scratched, envenomated, infected, or worse. 

Mountain biking is only permitted on certain trails at Little River Regional Park. All other trails on Durham County parks and preserves are for foot traffic only. 

Hunting is not allowed. Fishing is permitted in accordance with NC Wildlife Resources Commission regulations. 

 

Staying Safe During Your Visit:

During your visit, you may encounter hazards associated with being in natural, outdoor spaces, including heat, humidity, cold, stinging and biting insects, dangerous wildlife, heights, bodies of water, and rough terrain. There are no onsite staff at Hollow Rock Nature Park, New Hope Creek Preserve, and Little River Preserve (Matthews Road trails). During your visit, we recommend that you:

Carry your phone. IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY, DIAL 9 - 1 - 1.

Stay on marked trails, and familiarize yourself with the trails before you begin your hike or bike ride. 

Bring water or another hydrating fluid. 

Bring any medications you may need, such as allergy medication for stings. 

Avoid hiking or biking in dangerous conditions, including extreme heat, extreme cold, or storms. 

Hike with a buddy, or at least let someone else know where you are.