Have you been to Dan Nicholas Park? Located in Salisbury, NC, not far from Charlotte, is a spectacular park full of budget-friendly family fun and things to do. We dropped by to check it out one afternoon and were shocked to find so many fun things.
Not only is there a huge free playground, but there’s also low-cost mini-golf, a carousel, free splash pad, a free nature center, a barnyard, and a very inexpensive little zoo. You can also rent paddle boats and even mine for gems. We’ve got all the details on this fun, budget-friendly day trip-worthy park.
Note: The miniature train at Dan Nicholas Park is closed until further notice.
When first arriving at Dan Nicholas Park we were surprised by the size of this place. Not only is there a whole section with attractions, but there’s also a campground. We saw volleyball courts as we drove in and sports fields. There’s a lake and walking paths, picnic shelters. It’s huge. If you are headed to the attractions, as we were, you’ll head to the right as you drive in.
You’ll find a Dan Nicholas Park Map on their website to show you all the offerings and where to find them.
Dan Nicholas Park Attractions
With both free and cheap attractions, you can easily fill a day or even a whole weekend at Dan Nicholas Park.
Camping at Dan Nicholas Park
In addition to the campground which allows tents and RVs, the park also has camping cabins you can rent. The per-night prices for the cabins are just $55. Camping costs begin at $25 a night and go up to $30 depending on your power needs. Week-long rates are available, too.
What’s Free at Dan Nicholas Park?
There is no admission fee for Dan Nicholas Park, and the following activities are free.
The Playground
Bright, colorful, and expansive, all the kids will enjoy the playground at this park. We love the shade the trees provide, making it accessible even on a hot day!
The Splashpad
The Nature Center
The small indoor nature center has fish and reptiles native to the area. Find it across from the splash pad and next to the barnyard. It’s free, it’s airconditioned, and
Walking Trail
The walking trail winds through the park and around the lake. There’s no admission to enter the park, so the trail is free to use.
What Costs Money at Dan Nicholas Park?
The Carousel
Haden’s Carousel costs just $1 per person.
The carousel is covered and you’ll find it just down the path from the playground.
Mini Golf
The mini golf course at the park is located right next to the playground. A game costs $4 per person.
The Train (Closed Untiled Further Notice)
The train at the park is not currently running. The county is working to upgrade the equipment after one train jumped a track. No one was injured, but the county has closed the train until upgrades and replacements are considered.
The Barnyard and Wildlife Adventures
In addition to the free nature center, the park also has a barnyard area and a small Wildlife Adventures zoo area with native species.
You’ll see animals like black bear, red wolves, bobcats, Bald Eagle, and more.
The fee to enter the barnyard is 50 cents per person.
The fee to enter Wildlife Adventures is $2 per adult and $1 per child.
More things to do at the Park
Paddle Boats: You can rent a paddle boat and head out onto the lake. The cost is $2 per person (Age 3 and under are free).
Gem Mining: Purchase a bucket and see what treasures it holds at the gem mining sluices. Gem Mining Prices start at $11 per bucket. Larger buckets can be purchased with prices up to $57.
Things to Know Before You Go
The park posts the hours and availability of its attractions each week on social media. Keep tabs here: Dan Nicholas Park Facebook Page
Address:
6800 Bringle Ferry Road
Salisbury, NC 28146
