Tanglewood Park | Winston Salem

Tanglewood Park, located in Clemmons, North Carolina, is a vast and diverse 1,100-acre county park rich in natural beauty, recreational activities, and historical significance. It was originally the private estate of Will and Kate Reynolds, who generously willed the property to Forsyth County in 1951 for public enjoyment. Since then, Tanglewood Park has evolved into one of the premier outdoor destinations in the region, attracting families, outdoor enthusiasts, and visitors from across North Carolina and beyond.

Natural Environment and Trails

The park’s expansive landscape includes a mix of mature woodlands, open meadows, and wetlands, all set along the scenic banks of the Yadkin River. A network of multi-use trails winds through these diverse ecosystems, offering peaceful routes for hiking, running, biking, and wildlife observation. The trails vary in difficulty and length, making them suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels. These pathways provide ample opportunities to experience the region’s native flora and fauna, with frequent sightings of birds, deer, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. The trails are well-maintained and often feature educational signage to enhance visitors’ appreciation of the environment.

Peter S. Brunstetter Aquatic Center

A central attraction of Tanglewood Park is the Peter S. Brunstetter Aquatic Center, a modern facility designed to offer water-based recreation for all ages. It includes several key features:

Zero-Entry Pool and Splash Pad: This area is perfect for young children and toddlers, allowing them to play safely in shallow water and interactive spray features.

Main Pool: Equipped with two diving boards and two water slides, this pool is popular for both recreational swimming and competitive swim events.

Lazy River: The lazy river offers a relaxing water experience with two additional water slides, appealing to guests looking for gentle, fun water activities.

The aquatic center operates seasonally, from Memorial Day through Labor Day. During the summer months, it is open daily from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM on weekdays and until 6:00 PM on Sundays. Admission fees are set at $8 per person, with discounted rates available for children ages 3 to 5 and seniors aged 55 and older. Children under two enter for free. Lifeguards are on duty at all times to ensure safety.

Family-Oriented Attractions

Tanglewood Park offers a wealth of amenities aimed at families and children:

Mallard Lake: This small, picturesque lake within the park is a popular spot for fishing and pedal boating. Fishing at Mallard Lake is allowed from 7:00 AM until dusk, with a modest daily fishing pass fee of $1.50. Children under 12 fish for free when accompanied by a paying adult. Pedal boats are available for rental, providing a fun and gentle way for families to enjoy the water.

Playgrounds: Multiple playgrounds are strategically located around the park, offering safe and engaging play spaces for children. These playgrounds feature modern equipment suitable for various age groups. Note that Shelter #4 Playground is currently closed for renovations to enhance its facilities.

Tanglewood Stables: For visitors interested in equestrian activities, the park’s stables offer a range of experiences including guided horseback trail rides along the scenic Yadkin River, pony rides for younger children, hayrides, and carriage services for special events. These activities require advance reservations and provide a unique way to explore the park’s natural beauty from horseback.

Arboretum and Rose Garden

A highlight of Tanglewood Park is its meticulously maintained Arboretum and Rose Garden, managed by the Forsyth County Cooperative Extension. The gardens showcase an impressive collection of approximately 800 rose bushes, many of which are award-winning varieties, alongside themed gardens designed to educate and delight visitors. The themed gardens include:

Butterfly Garden: Planted with species that attract and support butterflies.

Children’s Garden: Designed to engage young visitors with interactive and sensory elements.

Fragrance Garden: Featuring aromatic plants and flowers.

Herb Garden: Displaying a variety of culinary and medicinal herbs.

Xeriscape Garden: Focused on drought-tolerant plants requiring minimal irrigation.

This tranquil garden area serves as a popular venue for leisurely walks, photography, and horticultural education. It also hosts occasional gardening workshops and community events.

Golf Facilities

Tanglewood Park is notable for its two 18-hole golf courses, both set within the park’s scenic landscape:

Championship Course: Designed by the legendary golf course architect Robert Trent Jones, Sr., this course is recognized for its challenging layout and beautiful vistas. It notably hosted the 1974 PGA Championship, attracting golf enthusiasts seeking a professional-level playing experience.

Reynolds Course: Named after the Reynolds family, the park’s original owners, this course offers a varied and enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels. It features well-maintained fairways, strategic hazards, and a welcoming atmosphere.

Both courses include amenities such as a driving range, pro shop, and golf instruction, catering to beginners and seasoned players alike.

Tanglewoof Dog Park

For pet owners, Tanglewood Park provides the Tanglewoof Dog Park, a dedicated off-leash area where dogs can run, play, and socialize freely. The dog park is divided into separate sections for large and small dogs, ensuring safety and comfort for all pets. Amenities include agility equipment for active dogs, shaded seating areas for owners, and water stations to keep pets hydrated. The park has become a popular meeting spot for local dog owners and their furry companions.

Camping and Accommodations

RV Campground: Tanglewood Park features a campground with 44 refurbished campsites, complete with full hookups for electricity, water, and sewer. The campground offers restroom and shower facilities and is open seasonally from March through November. It provides a convenient and scenic base for visitors who want to extend their stay and explore the park’s extensive amenities.

Manor House Bed & Breakfast: For visitors preferring a more comfortable and elegant overnight experience, the historic Manor House offers charming accommodations. The Manor House retains its Victorian-era architecture and ambiance, surrounded by the beauty of the park’s gardens and grounds.

Annual Events

Tanglewood Park hosts a variety of popular annual events that draw visitors from across the region:

Festival of Lights: This beloved winter event features an elaborate four-mile drive-through light display, showcasing more than one million lights arranged in creative and festive designs. Visitors can also enjoy hayrides through the illuminated grounds, creating a magical holiday atmosphere that attracts families and holiday enthusiasts alike.

North Carolina Wine Festival: Held each year in the park, this festival celebrates the state’s growing wine industry. It features tastings from over 30 North Carolina wineries, live music, food vendors, and a festive social atmosphere. The festival highlights the local culture and supports regional winemakers.

Visitor Information

Tanglewood Park is open year-round, welcoming visitors who come to enjoy its varied attractions, natural beauty, and community events. The park is located at:

4201 Manor House Circle, Clemmons, NC 27012

For inquiries and reservations, the park can be contacted by phone at (336) 703-6400.

Summary

Tanglewood Park is a multifaceted park that combines historical heritage, recreational diversity, and environmental stewardship within a picturesque natural setting. Its vast acreage offers hiking, biking, horseback riding, swimming, golfing, and fishing, alongside family-friendly amenities like playgrounds and stables. The park’s gardens, dog park, and annual festivals enrich the visitor experience, making Tanglewood a treasured community asset. Whether visitors seek active outdoor pursuits, peaceful natural escapes, or festive cultural events, Tanglewood Park provides a welcoming and versatile environment to satisfy a wide range of interests and ages.