Historic Yates Mill County Park In North Carolina Is Perfect To Reconnect With Nature

When you think about it: North Carolina has it all. We have the mountains, the sea, big cities, small towns, and a world of outdoor activities that bring joy and increase our quality of life. One of those outdoor places is a county park just five miles south of the state capitol. The park’s centerpiece is an old grist mill built in 1756.

It’s paired with a 20-acre pond and a 174-acre nature preserve.

TripAdvisor/theholidaywife

Three miles of nature trails meander through forests, wetlands, and over creeks and ponds. Easily among the most beautiful county parks in the state, it is perfect for a quick nature break.

TripAdvisor.com/redheadedmama

Yates Mill is fully operable. Built in 1756, it has withstood floods, fires, hurricanes, and a period of neglect. The mill and the new county park opened to the public in 2006 after the mill had undergone serious restoration efforts.

Google Maps

From March through November it’s open to the public for guided tours. On the third weekend of each of those months, you’ll be treated to corn-grinding demos from people in period costumes.

TripAdvisor/NCTraveler2015

The rest of the park is open year-round. Over at the Finley Center, you’ll get a glimpse into the history of Yates Mill.

Google Maps/Old Bull

The building has a variety of educational exhibits as well as an auditorium. A large deck located out back is filled with rocking chairs overlooking the pond.

Google Maps/Joey Flory

Have you explored historic Yates Mill and this amazing county park yet? What are you waiting for?

TripAdvisor/Sburris65

Historic Yates Mill County Park is located a mere five miles south of Raleigh. The address is 4620 Lake Wheeler Rd., Raleigh, NC 27603. The park is open seven days a week from 8:00 a.m. to sunset. The mill is open for tours from March through November. Admission to the park is free. Learn more at this link.