River Park North | Greenville

River Park North is a premier nature and recreation area in Greenville, North Carolina, encompassing approximately 324 acres of diverse ecosystems, wetlands, and woodlands. Operated by the City of Greenville's Recreation and Parks Department, the park offers an immersive outdoor experience that combines environmental education, recreational activities, and natural preservation. It is particularly popular among families, school groups, birdwatchers, anglers, hikers, and anyone looking to engage with the outdoors in a tranquil and educational setting.

Geography and Ecosystems

River Park North is located along the Tar River, and its landscape includes a mosaic of habitats:

Cypress-gum swamps

Hardwood forests

Open meadows

Freshwater ponds

Wetlands and marshes

These ecosystems support a wide range of biodiversity, providing critical habitats for native wildlife while also serving as a living classroom for environmental studies. The wetlands play a crucial role in water purification and flood control.

Wildlife and Birdwatching

This park is officially part of the North Carolina Birding Trail and is regarded as one of eastern North Carolina's best birdwatching locations. Bird enthusiasts can spot:

Prothonotary warblers

Bald eagles

Ospreys

Wood ducks

Great blue herons

Red-bellied woodpeckers

Belted kingfishers

Reptiles, amphibians, and small mammals are also commonly observed. Interpretive signage and observation platforms enhance the experience for nature lovers and photographers.

Walter L. Stasavich Science and Nature Center

Located within River Park North, this center is the educational heart of the park. It offers hands-on exhibits, interactive learning, and natural history displays suitable for all ages:

10,000-gallon freshwater aquarium showcasing local fish species

Live animal exhibits featuring turtles, snakes, and amphibians

Fossil exhibits including shark teeth and marine fossils

Nature dioramas illustrating regional ecosystems

70-seat auditorium for presentations, documentaries, and guest lectures

"Shells Are Everywhere" exhibit exploring mollusk diversity

The center operates Tuesday–Saturday (9:30 AM–5:00 PM) and Sunday (1:00–5:00 PM) and is closed on Mondays.

Recreational Activities

Hiking and Nature Trails

There are over 1.5 miles of marked hiking trails that weave through forests, around ponds, and alongside creeks:

TRACK Trail (1.2 miles): A child-friendly interpretive trail that is part of a national initiative to engage youth in hiking.

Willow Branch Trail (0.27 miles): A short path ideal for observing wetland plants and frogs.

Old Eason Run Trail (0.29 miles): Offers a shaded walk along water features.

Parker's Creek Trail (0.4 miles): Leads to more secluded areas of the park.

These trails are well-maintained and vary in difficulty, offering opportunities for leisurely walks or more immersive nature exploration.

Fishing

Fishing is a major attraction at River Park North, with five ponds regularly stocked (especially with channel catfish from April through September). Key details:

Two fishing piers, including one accessible for individuals with disabilities

Daily and annual fishing permits are required for those aged 15–61

Children under 15 and seniors over 62 fish for free

Catch-and-release encouraged for conservation

Boating

The park offers jon-boat, kayak, and pedal boat rentals:

Rentals are available seasonally, weather permitting

Boat launch permits are required for private boats (daily and seasonal passes offered)

Pedal boats are available on weekends from spring through late October

Boating is limited to designated ponds and is ideal for leisurely paddling and wildlife observation.

Camping

River Park North offers primitive and drive-up camping for small groups and families:

Three riverside primitive campsites: Accessible by a 1.2-mile hike

Two drive-in sites: Located near the park entrance, convenient for casual campers

Group campsite: Includes a covered shelter, fire ring, and seating—ideal for scouts, educational trips, and family gatherings

Reservations are required, and camping is allowed on a nightly basis, generally from spring through fall. Facilities are basic to preserve the natural setting.

Picnic Areas and Shelters

The park features multiple picnic shelters and grill stations, ideal for reunions, birthday parties, and community events:

Large shelter: Accommodates up to 250 people, equipped with tables, grills, and electricity

Small shelter: Accommodates around 25 people

Scattered picnic tables: Available first-come, first-served

Reservations are recommended for large gatherings.

Additional Amenities

Sand volleyball court for recreational play

Playground for children, adjacent to picnic area

Wildlife observation platforms strategically placed for birdwatchers and photographers

Fossil pit where children can dig for real marine fossils, linking to North Carolina’s prehistoric past

Restrooms and water stations near major facilities

Educational Programs and Events

River Park North is deeply committed to environmental education and offers an evolving lineup of public programs:

Photography contests and art exhibits tied to the park’s natural beauty

Fishing tournaments including monthly weigh-ins with awards

Guided nature hikes, wildlife tracking workshops, and astronomy nights

Boating and hunter safety courses (in collaboration with North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission)

Summer science camps for children aged 6–14

Birding club meetings and seasonal bird counts organized by the River Park North Bird Club

Operating Hours

Park Grounds:

Summer (May–August): 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Fall (Sept–Oct) & Spring (Mar–Apr): 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Winter (Nov–Feb): 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Nature Center:

Tuesday–Saturday: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Sunday: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Monday: Closed

Environmental Leadership

River Park North holds the distinction of being North Carolina’s first "Green Travel Certified" park, an award given by the Department of Environmental Quality in recognition of sustainable practices. These include:

Eco-friendly infrastructure

Waste reduction programs

Native plant landscaping

Public environmental education initiatives

Conclusion

River Park North is more than a green space—it is a living classroom, a family retreat, and a natural sanctuary. Its diverse programs, scenic beauty, and emphasis on education make it one of Greenville’s most valued recreational assets. Whether you're fishing at dawn, hiking through the woods, paddling across a pond, or learning about freshwater ecosystems, the park offers a full-spectrum nature experience that appeals to all ages and interests.