Harnett County: River Views, Trails and History

Harnett County lies between the Piedmont, the Sandhills and the Coastal Plain. In Raven Rock State Park, a 150-foot-high crystalline rock formation overlooks the Cape Fear River. Here, the rock and river together shape the landscape, while museums and historic sites add other perspectives on the county to the natural setting.

Rock, River and Trails

In the southwestern part of the county, Anderson Creek County Park covers 1,014 acres. The park’s mountain biking trails opened on September 15, 2023. The county has nearly 6,000 acres of parkland and 26 miles of hiking and walking trails. These figures may change as more facilities are added.

The individual parks offer different ways to spend time outdoors. Barbecue Creek Park has 0.5 miles of walking trails and six tennis courts, three of which are lit. Shawtown Community Park has a walking trail. The Dunn-Erwin Rail Trail connects downtown Dunn and Erwin, linking the centers of the two communities.

Along the Cape Fear River

Cape Fear River Trail Park offers 16 acres of walking trails and river viewpoints. There is also canoe access. Walking trails, river views and canoe access are three specific reasons to visit the park. Together with trails at other facilities, they let you choose activities based on different interests, without requiring all activities to be in the same place.

History and Museums

The Erwin Commercial Historic District is a compact group of historic retail and service buildings in Erwin. It meets Criteria A and C of the National Register in the areas of commerce and architecture. The district thus reflects two aspects of its significance: the history of commerce and services, and the architecture of its buildings.

Averasboro Battlefield & Museum displays artifacts, facts and maps. Averasboro Battlefield is accessible via Interstate 95. At the General William C. Lee Museum, you’ll find artifacts, photographs, documents and interactive exhibits. The museum also offers programs, lectures and special events about the history of U.S. airborne forces and the wider context of World War II.

The Dunn Area History Museum is another stop to add to a history-focused visit. It is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; check the opening hours before your visit. The Angier Museum is located in Angier’s old train depot, and admission is free.

Lillington and Local Destinations

The Lillington Botanical Trail offers short, kid-friendly hiking trails and two playgrounds. Both walking trails and play areas are among the trail’s specific offerings.

The sites and facilities offer different highlights, from the rock formation on the Cape Fear River to park trails and canoe access, as well as museums, historic architecture and playgrounds. You can plan your trip around the topics that interest you most.

Discover more destinations: Lillington, Dunn, Iredell, Granville County, Orange, Hyde, Catawba, Pitt.

For the broader travel overview: North Carolina.