Tucked away between picturesque rolling hills and lush forests, Franklin County offers a lifestyle steeped in Southern charm and natural beauty. Just 30 minutes from Raleigh, three hours from the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains and four hours from the renowned Outer Banks, Franklin County is perfectly positioned for both convenience and adventure. With its mild winters and distinct seasons, the area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts year-round.
Residents and visitors alike are drawn to the tranquil 92-acre De Hart Botanical Gardens, the winding trails along the Tar River – perfect for kayaking or canoeing – and the expansive 161-acre Owens Park.
Local downtown corridors and several shopping centers feature a diverse range of dining options, from cozy to fine dining.
Franklin County’s Parks & Recreation Department
is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for our residents by providing accessible, affordable, and enriching recreational opportunities. With a commitment to serving the community, a range of programs and services have been designed to meet the needs of all ages. Our parks provide a variety of amenities for residents and visitors to enjoy the great outdoors.
Owens Park features four fishing ponds, including an ADA-accessible fishing pier, playgrounds for the little ones, a picnic shelter, and several trails – including a paved half-mile ADA trail. Franklinton Park offers a baseball and softball field, a basketball court, reservable picnic shelter, walking trails, a quarter-mile track, and a soccer field for all kinds of recreational fun. At Pilot Park, visitors can enjoy baseball and softball fields, a walking trail, and a picnic shelter available for rental as well as the County’s first Dog Park!
Explore the future of recreation in Franklin County by viewing the Parks and Recreation Master Plan here.
Franklin County Parks & Recreation Department Parks and Recreation Master Plan