A 150-foot-high crystalline rock formation in Raven Rock State Park overlooks the Cape Fear River. Harnett County lies between the Piedmont, the Sandhills and the Coastal Plain. Discoveries range from river views and park trails to local history in historic buildings and museums.
Outdoors: Cliffs, River and Trails
In the southwestern part of the county, Anderson Creek County Park spans 1,014 acres. The park’s mountain biking trails opened on September 15, 2023. Harnett County has nearly 6,000 acres of parkland and 26 miles of hiking and walking trails; these figures may change as new facilities are added.
Cape Fear River Trail Park offers 16 acres of walking trails, river overlooks and canoe access. Trails, views and canoe access are distinct features of the park. Barbecue Creek Park offers 0.5 miles of walking trails and six tennis courts, three of which are lit. The county therefore offers both walking trails and other ways to spend time outdoors.
The Dunn-Erwin Rail Trail offers another connection: it links the downtowns of Dunn and Erwin. For your planning, it provides a direct connection between two town centers; no trail length or walking time is specified.
Local History and Museums
The Erwin Commercial Historic District is a compact group of historic retail and service buildings in Erwin. It meets National Register Criteria A and C in the areas of commerce and architecture. Both commercial history and architectural design are central to this historic streetscape.
Averasboro Battlefield is accessible via Interstate 95. Averasboro Battlefield & Museum displays artifacts, facts and maps. The General William C. Lee Museum offers insights into history through artifacts, photographs, documents and interactive exhibits. The museum also offers programs, lectures and special events on the history of U.S. airborne forces and the broader context of World War II.
The Dunn Area History Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Check the hours before your visit. The Angier Museum is located in Angier’s old train depot; admission is free. The two museums offer different ways to explore local history: one has specified visiting hours, while the other is housed in a historic train depot and offers free admission.
Short Trails and Places to Play
The Lillington Botanical Trail features short, kid-friendly walking trails and has two playgrounds. If you’re traveling with children, the trail combines short walks and places to play in one location.
Discover more destinations: Dunn, Lillington, Rutherford County, Hyde, Franklin County, Ashe County, New Hanover County, Jackson.
Go to the overview of destinations: North Carolina.
