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Parks #8 in Cary, North Carolina

Jack Smith Park

4.6 · 909 reviews
Active and family-oriented
Jack Smith Park, 9725 Penny Rd, Raleigh, NC 27606, United States
Interesting facts
1

The park was named in honor of Jack Smith, who served as the Mayor of Cary from 1999 to 2007.

2

The property was formerly agricultural land and was developed specifically to serve the growing residential needs of southwestern Cary.

3

The splash pad features motion-activated spray jets that conserve water when the area is unoccupied.

4

The dog park incorporates specialized drainage systems to prevent mud accumulation during heavy rainfall.

Overview

Jack Smith Park is a 73-acre municipal park located in Cary, North Carolina, noted for its specialized amenities for dogs and children. The facility features a large, dedicated dog park with separate fenced areas for large and small breeds. A central highlight is the interactive splash pad, which operates seasonally for cooling relief. The park includes a modern playground designed with climbing structures and synthetic turf surfacing. Multi-use paved trails connect the site to the broader Cary greenway system for walking and cycling. The park design emphasizes accessibility with flat, paved pathways throughout the primary recreation zones. Large open green spaces are available for unstructured play and recreational activities. Picnic shelters and benches are dispersed across the park for visitor utility.

Photo spot

The elevated view overlooking the central playground and splash pad area during sunset.

Insider tips

Bring a change of clothes and water shoes for children, as the splash pad is highly popular in warm weather.

Check the Town of Cary website before visiting, as the splash pad operates on a seasonal, weather-dependent schedule.

Utilize the paved greenway trails to extend your visit beyond the immediate playground and dog park areas.

What to avoid

Do not visit the splash pad during early spring or late autumn, as the water systems are typically shut off outside of the main summer season.

Good to know

The splash pad is open seasonally, typically from late spring through early autumn, weather permitting.

Etiquette

Dogs must remain on a leash unless inside the designated off-leash enclosures; pick up all pet waste immediately.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1.5-2.5 hours
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings or early evenings during late spring or early autumn for mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
Address
Jack Smith Park, 9725 Penny Rd, Raleigh, NC 27606, United States
35.710, -78.766
Get directions
Details
Shade & rest areasMultiple picnic shelters, bench-lined trails, and permanent shade structures near the playground.
Dog Park FeaturesSeparate fenced enclosures for large and small dogs with double-gated entry points.

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1.5-2.5 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Weekday mornings or early evenings during late spring or early autumn for mild temperatures and fewer crowds..

The elevated view overlooking the central playground and splash pad area during sunset.

Close by you'll find Koka Booth Amphitheatre, Hemlock Bluffs Nature Preserve, Crowder County Park.