2020 Summer Guide - Reimagined

Better a month late than not at all, right? Thanks to COVID-19, we’ve all had to make adjustments.

One of those changes was waiting a bit longer to get some clarity on what would — and would not — be taking place in the county this summer.

Unfortunately, camps have been hit hard by the recent pandemic. There just aren’t as many to tell you about as usual. Some of the venues listed below are also affected due to the governor’s orders on social distancing. It’s a good idea to reach out first and see what individual places are doing in response to COVID-19.

Stay safe, and have fun!

The Great Outdoors

Clayton River Walk on the Neuse

Address: 2686 Covered Bridge Road, Clayton

Cost: Free

Overview: It’s a beautiful 4-mile, paved trail that begins at the Wake/Johnston county line and runs parallel to the Neuse River under Covered Bridge Road.

Contact: www. townofclaytonnc.org/Parksand-Recreation/greenwaysand-trails.aspx

Sam’s Branch Greenway

Address: 1358 N. O’Neill St., Clayton

Cost: Free

Overview: It’s a beautiful1.25-mile, 10-foot-wide paved pedestrian and biking trail. The greenway leads to the winding Neuse River and connects with the Clayton River Walk on the Neuse, a 4-mile section of the North Carolina Mountains-to-Sea Trail. These trails now allow families to enjoy more than 30 miles of biking or hiking all the way from Clayton to Falls Dam Lake in Raleigh.

Contact: www. townofclaytonnc.org/Parksand-Recreation/greenwaysand-trails.aspx

Clemmons Educational State Forest

Address: 2411 Old U.S. 70 West, Clayton

Cost: Free

Overview: The first of North Carolina’s Educational State Forests, Clemmons opened in 1976 in Johnston County. Featuring self-guided trails and exhibits, as well as Ranger-conducted classes, the forest offers a wealth of experiences for the senses and the mind.

Legend Park Mountain Bike Trail

Address: 550 City Road, Clayton

Cost: Free

Overview: This park offers a little something for all riders, from beginner to expert.

Contact: www. townofclaytonnc.org/Parksand-Recreation/mountainbike-trail.aspx

Buffalo Creek Greenway

Address: 600 Booker Dairy Road, Smithfield

Cost: Free

Overview: Enjoy nature along the three-mile greenway, which travels along the Spring Branch to the Neuse River Walk at Smithfield Commons. Part of the Mountains-to- Sea Trail through Johnston County, the 10-foot wide path accommodates hikers, runners and bikers. Trail entrances are located throughout Historic Downtown Smithfield and the back of Smithfield Community Park.

Bentonville Battlefield

Address: 5466 Harper House Road, Four Oaks

Cost: Free (special events not included)

Overview: The Battle of Bentonville, fought on March 19-21, 1865, was the final full-scale battle in the Civil War. It was the largest battle fought in North Carolina and the only attempt to defeat Gen. William T. Sherman during his march through the Carolinas. The Union force was almost three times larger than the Confederate Army, under Joseph E. Johnston, and the result of the battle was a Union victory.

Contact: www.historicsites. nc.gov/all-sites/bentonvillebattlefield

Howell Woods

Address: 6601 Devils Racetrack Road, Four Oaks

Cost: Free (special events not included)

Overview: The Rudolph Howell & Son Environmental Learning Center, or Howell Woods, is a 2,800-acre natural resource where visitors can experience a variety of environmental education programs and recreational activities. Activities include hiking, camping, canoeing, bird watching, hunting, fishing and more.

Contact: www.johnstoncc. edu/howellwoods

GALOT Motorsports Park

Address: 555 Dragstrip Road, Benson

Cost: Varies by event

Overview: GALOT Motorsports Park offers a wide variety of amenities to racers and fans. The racetrack features 330 feet of climatecontrolled concrete to keep the surface temperature down, state-of-the-art traction equipment and a brand new lighting system. There’s seating for more than 9,000 spectators and a concession stand with indoor seating. On the summer schedule, there’s everything from drag racing to a demolition derby to enjoy.

Contact: www. galotmotorsportspark.com

Southern National Motorsports Park

Address: 8071 Newsome Mill Road, Lucama

Cost: General admission is $15 with reduced rates for seniors, students and younger children

Overview: Located just outside of Kenly, Southern

National Motorsports Park features a 0.4-mile, 70-footwide oval asphalt track with 17-degree turns and sevendegree straight-a-ways with speeds reaching 100 mph.

Contact: www.snmpark.com

Black Creek Hill Farms

Address: 6019 N.C. Highway

50 North, Benson

Cost: Varies by event

Overview: Take horseback riding lessons or join a summer camp at this charming facility outside of Benson. Cost is $250 per week.

Contact: www.bchfarms. com or email bsjernigan@ bchfarms.com

Tucker Lake

Address: 3025 Allens Crossroads Road, Benson

Cost: Starts at $10

Overview: Tucker Lake will be open in 2020 under the original Tucker Family Management. It’s a 30-acre lake fed by clear, spring water with white sandy beaches. Whether you want to relax on the beach, float in the water or take a plunge from the 167-foot high water slide, Tucker Lake has you covered.

Contact: www.tuckerslake. com

Smith’s Nursery

Address: 443 Sanders Road,

Benson

Cost: Free, pay for the strawberries

Overview: Smith’s Nursery is a family owned and operated nursery and produce farm in Johnston County. During the spring and early summer, they have an exciting U-Pick strawberry and blueberry season. There are also farm animals to feed, inflatables and ice cream for kids to enjoy.

Contact: www. smithsnurseryinc.com

Johnston County Heritage GeoTrail

Dates: All summer

Cost: Free

Overview: There are more than 100 special geocaches scattered around Johnston County. Can you find them all?

Contact: www. johnstoncountync.org/thingsto-do/nature-and-recreation/ geocaching/

Publisher’s Note: Some of these venues are operating under COVID-19 restrictions. Contact the venue for the most current information.

Grab a Little Culture

The Clayton Center

Address: 111 E. Second St., Clayton

Cost: Varies by event

Overview: The Clayton Center provides a timeless and elegant backdrop for any special occasion. Attend a concert or event in its beautifully renovated 600-seat auditorium.

Contact: www. theclaytoncenter.com

The Rudy Theatre

Address: 300 N. Raiford St., Selma

Cost: Varies by event

Overview: Check out the weekly variety show, or catch other nationally-renowned acts throughout the summer at the historic Rudy Theatre in downtown Selma.

Contact: www.rudytheatre. com

Benson Museum of Local History

Address: 102 W. Main St., Benson

Cost: Free

Overview: Check out exhibits on a variety of subjects including Benson’s agricultural heritage, its founding fathers and much more.

Contact: www.townofbenson. com/2209/museum

Johnston County Heritage Center

Address: 241 E. Market St., Smithfield

Cost: Free

Overview: Discover more about Johnston County’s rich heritage with online access to more than 500 million records including census data, newspapers, obituaries, military service records, marriages and more. Contact: www. jcheritagecenter.org

Tobacco Farm Life Museum

Address: 709 N. Church St., Kenly

Cost: General admission is $8

(reduced rates for children and seniors)

Overview: Come visit and step back in time to a turn-of-thecentury homestead, including a restored house and detached kitchen, smokehouse, log tobacco barn and even an outhouse. The 6,000-square foot museum features both permanent and rotating exhibits on farm life, Southern medicine, domestic skills, rural social life and artifacts.

Contact: www. tobaccofarmlifemuseum.org

Ava Gardner Museum

Address: 325 E. Market St., Smithfield

Cost: General admission is $10 (reduced rates for military personnel, children and seniors)

Overview: Take a self-guided tour through more than 5,000 square feet of exhibit space. You’ll see extraordinary costumes, movie posters and awards that represent the Smithfield native’s 50-year career as a leading Hollywood actress.

Contact: www.avagardner.org

Hinnant Family Vineyards

Address: 826 Pine Level Micro Road, Pine Level

Cost: Varies depending on tasting and tour options

Overview: Enjoy a wine or port tasting or take a tour of the oldest and largest commercial Muscadine vineyard in the state of North

Carolina.

Contact: www. hinnantvineyards.com

Gregory Vineyards

Address: 275 Bowling Springs Drive, Angier

Cost: Varies depending on tasting and tour options

Overview: This picturesque 135-acre working farm showcases hills of planted vineyards, a winery, a distillery and a tasting room that’s open seven days a week. If you’re hungry, Lane’s Seafood and Steakhouse is also on site.

Contact: www. gregoryvineyards.com

Deep River Brewing

Address: 700 W. Main St., Clayton

Cost: Varies depending on tasting and tour options

Overview: Take a tour or enjoy a tasting at Johnston County’s first legal brewery. The facility was an old cotton spinning mill in downtown Clayton and was brought back to life by utilizing old barn wood on the walls, Mason jar lights and whiskey barrels for tables.

Contact: www. deepriverbrewing.com

Double Barley Brewing

Address: 3174 US 70, Smithfield

Cost: Varies depending on tasting and tour options

Overview: Double Barley is JoCo’s second brewery and specializes in dark brews with a higher ABV that you can taste in a taproom with a rustic but modern feel. They also have an excellent in-house menu.

Contact: www. doublebarleybrewing.com

Broadslab Distillery

Address: 4834 N.C. Highway

50 South, Benson

Cost: $12 for a tour and tasting

Overview: During a onehour tour, visitors will learn about the company’s natural, handcrafted premium products, how and why they make them and receive a free shot glass and tasting.

Contact: www. broadslabdistillery.com

Frank Creech Art Gallery

Address: 245 College Road, Smithfield

Cost: Free

Overview: This 1,500-squarefoot gallery on the campus of Johnston Community College features local painting, sculptures, drawings and photography for the public to enjoy

Contact: www.johnstoncc. edu/frank-creech-art-gallery

Golf Courses

Country Club of Johnston County

Address: 694 Country Club Road, Smithfield

Cost: Varies by day and time

Overview: This 18-hole Ellis Maples designed course is open to public play and has played host to multiple professional and amateur events.

Contact: www. ccjohnstoncounty.com

Cardinal Country Club

Address: 363 Parrish

Memorial Road, SelmaCost: Varies by day and time

Overview: This semi-private facility features tall pines, canals, ponds and bunkers to create a challenging course for beginners and seasoned players alike.

Contact: www.playcardinalcc. com

Neuse Golf Club

Address: 918 Birkdale Drive, Clayton

Cost: Varies by day and time

Overview: This John B. LaFoy designed course tops 7,000 yards from the back tees, and according to the website, players might want to save some energy and concentration for the 14th hole.

Contact: www.facebook.com/ GolfRaleighTheNeuse/

Pine Hollow Golf Club

Address: 3300 East Garner Road, Clayton

Cost: Varies by day and time

Overview: The par-71 course, designed by Maurice Brackett and Bob Moore, opened in 1968 and measures 6,333 yards from the back (gold) tees.

Contact: www.pinehollowgolf. com

Reedy Creek Golf Club

Address: 585 Reedy Creek Road, Four Oaks

Cost: Varies by date and time

Overview: Conveniently located near I-40 (Exit 319), this 18-hole, par-72 course is built upon rolling farmland. The Gene Hamm-designed layout has been consistently rated as one of eastern North Carolina’s top public courses.

Contact: www.reedycreekgolf. com

Riverwood Golf and Athletic Club

Address: 400 Riverwood Drive, Clayton

Cost: Varies by date and time

Overview: Riverwood Golf Club is a championship layout set in the beautiful rolling terrain along the Neuse River.

Contact: www. riverwoodgolfnc.com/

Other things to do

Selma Train Depot

Address: 500 Railroad Street, Selma

Cost: Free, unless you take a train

Overview: Historic train station and museum still in operation in Downtown Selma; originally built in 1924.

Contact: www. johnstoncountync.org/listing/ selma-historic-union-stationnc-amtrak/1005/

Smithfield Recreation and Aquatics Center (SRAC)

Address: 600 Booker Dairy Road, Smithfield

Cost: Varies, but a membership or day pass is needed to use the facilities

Overview: Enjoy the eightlane, competition-sized swimming pool with adjacent kiddie splash pool, double gymnasium, elevated walking track, racquetball courts, fitness room and banquet room. Day passes are available for visitors.

Contact: www.smithfield-nc. com/page/srac_home

Smithfield Cinemas

Address: 175 S. Equity Drive

Cost: Varies

Overview: Check the website for current information at www.smithfieldcinemas.net.

Howell Theatre

Address: 141 S. Third St., Smithfield

Cost: Varies based on age and show time

Overview: The Howell Theatre is a vintage circa 1935 movie theater that has been in constant operation for almost 80 years. Check the website at www.howellmovies.com for current information.

Rainbow Lanes

Address: 850 N.C. 42, Clayton

Cost: Varies

Overview: Rainbow Lanes Family Fun Center is a great place to have fun times with family and friends. Check the website at www.rainbowlanesclayton.com for current information.

Bungalow Bounce

Address: 101 Best Wood Drive, Clayton

Cost: $7 for ages 3-11 and $2 for children under 3.

Overview: Sometimes, kids just need to bounce. This is a place where that can happen safely. Check the website at www.bungalowbounce.com for current information.

Conundrum Escapes

Address: 41-A Technology Drive, Garner

Cost: Varies, but starts at $25 per person

Overview: Choose from one of several escape room scenarios. Don’t worry, it’s not scary. It’s just an hour of brain-teasing fun.

Contact: www. conundrumescapes.com

Ready Set Escape

Address: 1304 D W. Market St., Smithfield

Cost: Varies, but starts at $23 per person

Overview: Choose from one of three escape room scenarios. Great for a special occasion, group get together, birthday, anniversary and corporate training or team building.

Contact: www.ready-setescape.com

6th SE6SE Escapes

Address: 11425 U.S. Hwy 70 West, Clayton

Cost: Varies, but starts at $27.75 per person

Overview: Players must use their powers of observation and problem solving skills to escape one of three different escape rooms within 60 minutes.

Contact: www.6thse6se.com

Nick’s Flippin’ Kids

Address: 9257 U.S. 70 Business East, Clayton

Cost: Varies

Overview: Take a gymnastics class, plan a party or join a summer day camp.

Contact: www. nicksflippinkids.com

Camps

July 10-12 and July 17-19 2020

First-Year Scout Summer Weekends Program Camp Tuscarora, Four Oaks This is a program for brand new Scouts who have just moved up from Webelos or those joining the troop right before summer camp. The purpose of the program is to help new Scouts become comfortable with Scouting methods and give them an understanding of how Scouting skills are learned and adapted for a lifetime. Participating Scouts will function as members of a provisional troop and become part of a patrol during program time. Fees are $240 per Scout, which includes both weekends, all meals at camp, program materials and a special edition Tkahsaha First- Year program patch! Visit www. scoutingevent.com/424-38085 to register.

July 13-17 and August 3-7

Howell Woods Summer Camp Howell Woods, Four Oaks Check out Howell Woods’ summer camp for 8- to 12-year-olds! This week-long day camp will be full of outdoor adventure, fun and more. Each week will cost $150 per camper. To register, visit www.johnstoncc.edu/ howellwoods. Spots will be filled on a first-come, first-serve basis.

July 13-16, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Carolina Dance Productions Magical Fairy Day Camp Carolina Dance Productions, Clayton Email info@cdpdance.com to learn more about this event.

July 13-17, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Art Buzz Kids Camp: The Art of Science Wine & Design, Clayton This week-long, half-day camp is all about the beautiful things that can happen when art and science come together! Kids will not only have fun, but they may also learn a thing or two about science as well. Email clayton@ wineanddesign.com for more details.

July 13-17 and July 20-24, 1-3 p.m.

Kids Band Camp Artmosphere Community Arts Center For beginner-level musicians, we provide the instruments and the experience of playing in a band. Students will learn the fundamentals of every instrument, different styles of music, types of ensembles and perform a role in a band. Campers will decide on a song or songs to learn, get the ins and outs of stage and performance etiquette and even try their hand at making band merch! On the last day of camp, there will be a showcase where the students get to show off their hard work and perform for their friends and family. Cost is $225. Visit www.artmospherecac.com to learn more.

July 20-23, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Carolina Dance Productions Princess Camp Carolina Dance Productions, Clayton Email info@cdpdance.com to learn more about this event.

July 26-28 and July 30 through Aug. 1

Summer Camp: Backstage Pass Carolina Youth Theatre, Clayton Now in its 10th year, Backstage Pass gives rising third- through sixth-grade students a behind-the-scenes look at Carolina Youth Theatre’s summer musical. Participants will spend the week rehearsing scenes, music and choreography in preparation for a performance of their own. In addition, participants will get a backstage tour and receive daily instruction on different aspects of technical theater. Each participant will also receive a T-shirt and a complimentary ticket to CYT’s summer musical. Visit www. carolinayouththeatre.com for more information.

July 27-30, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Carolina Dance Productions Jungle Safari Day Camp Carolina Dance Productions, Clayton Email info@cdpdance.com to learn more about this event.

July 27-31, 9 a.m. to noon

Carolina Dance Productions Jungle Safari Day Camp Carolina Dance Productions, Clayton Email info@cdpdance.com to learn more about this event.

VBS

July 12-16

Stones Creek VBS Stones Creek Church, Benson The theme for this year’s event is “Rocky Railway: Jesus’ Power Pulls Us Through.”