Explore Apex parks and greenways: Apex Community Park, Beaver Creek trails, playgrounds, and best spots for families and outdoor activity.
One of the best things about living in Apex, North Carolina, is the access to outstanding parks, greenways, and outdoor recreation. For a town of roughly 75,000 people in western Wake County, Apex punches well above its weight when it comes to green space. Whether you are a trail runner, a disc golfer, a dog owner, or a family looking for a great playground, there is something here for you — and a lot of it is within a 10-minute drive of anywhere in town.
Apex Nature Park on Shepherd Street is the crown jewel of the town's park system and a favorite among residents of all ages. This 35-acre park packs a remarkable amount into a manageable space:
Apex Nature Park is especially popular on weekends, so arrive early for the best parking. The park is open dawn to dusk year-round.
Located on Kelly Road, Apex Community Park is the go-to destination for organized sports and active recreation. The park spans over 100 acres and includes:
Community Park is also the site of many Apex Parks and Recreation Department events, including outdoor movie nights, seasonal festivals, and community fitness programs.
Jordan Lake is the outdoor gem that many newcomers do not realize is so close to Apex. This 14,000-acre reservoir managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation sits just 15 minutes southwest of town along US-64.
Swimming: Several designated swim beaches are available during the summer season (typically Memorial Day through Labor Day). The most popular for Apex residents are the Ebenezer Church Recreation Area and Seaforth Beach. There are no lifeguards, so swim at your own risk.
Boating: Jordan Lake has multiple public boat ramps for motorboats, pontoons, kayaks, and canoes. You can rent kayaks and paddleboards from several local outfitters, or bring your own. Pontoon boat rentals are available from vendors near the Crosswinds Marina area.
Fishing: The lake is stocked with largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and striped bass. It is considered one of the best fishing lakes in central North Carolina. A valid NC fishing license is required.
Camping: Multiple campgrounds offer tent and RV sites with varying levels of amenities. Crosswinds Campground and Poplar Point are among the most popular. Reservations fill up fast during summer, so book well in advance through the North Carolina State Parks reservation system.
Bald eagle viewing: Jordan Lake is home to one of the largest populations of bald eagles on the East Coast. The best viewing is during winter months (December through February) when the eagles are most active around the lake's coves.
The Beaver Creek Greenway is Apex's primary greenway trail and a vital connector for the town's trail network. This paved, multi-use trail follows Beaver Creek through the heart of Apex, linking neighborhoods, parks, and commercial areas.
The greenway currently stretches approximately 5 miles, with ongoing extensions planned to connect to Cary's extensive greenway system and ultimately to the broader Wake County and regional trail network. It is ideal for walking, jogging, cycling, and pushing a stroller.
Key access points include trailheads near Apex Community Park, Kelly Road Park, and connections near the intersection of NC-55 and US-64. The trail is paved and ADA-accessible, and sections run through wooded areas along the creek, offering shade and a surprisingly natural setting for a suburban greenway.
For a shorter, more leisurely walk, the Historic Apex Depot Trail offers a scenic stroll through the heart of downtown Apex. The trail connects the historic Apex Union Depot on Salem Street to nearby green spaces and is a great way to combine a walk with a visit to downtown shops and restaurants. The depot itself, built in 1867, is a restored railroad station that now serves as a community event space and a symbol of Apex's railroad heritage.
Kelly Road Park is a well-maintained neighborhood park that offers a quieter alternative to the larger community parks. Features include a playground, open green space for pickup games, a small picnic area, and trail connections to the Beaver Creek Greenway. It is a popular spot for families in the surrounding neighborhoods, particularly on weekday afternoons when it is less crowded than the larger parks.
Beyond the dog park at Apex Nature Park, dog owners in Apex benefit from several off-leash options in the surrounding area. The Apex Dog Park at Nature Park remains the most popular within town limits, but nearby options include the dog park at West Cary's Middle Creek Park and the fenced dog areas at several neighborhood HOA community parks.
Many Apex greenways are dog-friendly as well, provided dogs are on a leash no longer than six feet. The Beaver Creek Greenway is a favorite for dog walks, especially in the early morning and evening hours.
Apex parks come alive with seasonal programming throughout the year:
Whether you want a challenging disc golf round, a family afternoon at the playground, a morning paddle on Jordan Lake, or a shady greenway run with your dog, Apex delivers. The combination of well-maintained town parks, an expanding greenway system, and immediate access to 14,000 acres of Jordan Lake makes this one of the best towns in the Triangle for outdoor living.
Thinking about moving to Apex and want to find a home near your favorite parks and trails? Get in touch with our team to find neighborhoods that match your outdoor lifestyle.
