Waterways & Water Activities

With boating, canoeing, swimming, spraygrounds, and more, Durham has the water activities you need.

We’re not just brick and concrete. Nestled midway between sand, sails and mountain peaks, Durham has its own distinct flavor. We enjoy our refreshing natural environments year round, both urban and rustic. Boating, canoeing, swimming, spraygrounds ... our water activities are perfect for family, solo or couple adventures. Explore our waterways (creeks, rivers and lakes), perfect backdrops for your favorite refreshing forays, and well equipped for different activities to make the moment memorable. The Eno River, Falls Lake and Lake Michie are just the start — opportunities to hike, boat, fish and swim are plentiful in Durham.

Alert: As of June 2025, parts of Eno River State Park are closed until further notice due storm damage. Please check park websites for updates.

Alert: Lake Michie and parts of Falls Lake are closed for boating until further notice due to low water level conditions. Hiking and camping facilities are still open at Falls Lake. Check park websites for updates. Under the City of Durham's Stage 2 Water Shortage response, Durham Parks and Recreation spraygrounds are closed until further notice.

Go for a serene paddle on the water in Durham County.

photo by: Discover Durham

Rivers and Streams in Durham

The jewel of Durham's natural attractions, the Eno River stretches across the North of Durham county. Along its winding way, you'll find Eno River State Park and West Point on the Eno, both of which offer many opportunities to enjoy the outdoors in and around the river. The Mountains to Sea Trail also stretches across the same area, providing visitors with even more hiking trails. Ellerbee Creek flows all the way from Downtown Durham to North Durham and is followed by the Ellerbee Creek Trail. Made up of multiple parts and spanning nearly five miles, this path makes up the paved greenway that's part of the North/South Greenway through Durham.

Lakes in Durham

Durham County includes three beautiful lakes, all of which offer a multitude of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Falls Lake runs across the northern part of Durham county. Head here for boating, swimming, fishing, paddling, camping, hiking and more. Connected to Falls Lake via the Flat River, you'll find Lake Michie, a smaller but equally as beautiful body of water. Rent boats, fish, camp or have a picnic at these scenic Durham water feature. The southern part of of Durham County touches the northern edge of Jordan Lake, another picturesque aquatic destination. Much like Falls Lake, Jordan provides visitors with a multitude of opportunities from camping and hiking to swimming and boating.