and there’s a lot to do in JoCo Summer has returned, and that means it’s time to enjoy all the activities and fun places Johnston County has to offer. Take your pick and go have fun! And, don’t forget the sunscreen!
Some activities may not be set in stone by press time, so make sure you check the schedule for your favorite event just to make sure.
THE GREAT OUTDOORS Clayton River Walk on the Neuse
Address: 2686 Covered Bridge Road, Clayton Cost: free Overview: It’s a beautiful four-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/526/River-Walk-onthe-Neuse.
Sam’s Branch Greenway
Address: 1358 N. O’Neill St., Clayton Cost: free Overview: It’s a beautiful 1.25 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 four-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/facilities/facility/details/ samsbranchgreenway-3.
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. Contact: www.ncesf.org/clemmons.html
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/244/Greenways-Trails.
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Photos courtesy of Johnston County Visitors Bureau Buffalo Creek Greenway
Address: 600 Booker Dairy Road, Smithfield Cost: free Overview: Enjoy nature along the 3-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. Contact: www.smithfield-nc.com/page/parks_neuse_riverwalk
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 General 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/bentonville-battlefield
