Durham Parks Foundation is a volunteer-led organization that supports parks, trails, open space, and recreation in Durham, NC.
Eno Quarry
The Eno Rock Quarry, nestled within the scenic landscapes of Eno River State Park, offers visitors a unique and refreshing outdoor experience. This former rock quarry, now filled with crystal-clear water, serves as a popular swimming hole and recreational destination for locals and visitors alike. Surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery, the quarry provides a tranquil oasis where visitors can cool off on hot summer days and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings. Be sure to bring your floats, as the water is known to be deep. The area also offers opportunities for picnicking, sunbathing, and nature exploration along the park's extensive trail system.
Spread over 4,200 acres (1699 hectares) of opaque forested areas, the Eno River State Park is a popular outdoor destination that boasts of nearly 28 miles (45 kilometers) of some of the finest hiking trails in North Carolina. The Eno River runs alongside these trails, which leads hikers through old-growth forests, rocky landscapes, and historic vestiges. The vestiges are mainly gristmills from the time of the Eno River's settlement, with as many as 30 mills lining the river's banks at the time. A number of interesting trails help explore various corners of the park, from the steep trail leading to Cox Mountain, to the Eno Trace that offers avenues to view wildlife. In spring, the Pump Station trail is an excellent way to take in views of wildflowers sprinkled across small mounds. Other popular activities in the park include angling, camping, wildlife photography, picnicking, and canoeing and kayaking.
