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 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.
Dan Nicholas Park At a Glance
- 📍 Location: 6800 Bringle Ferry Road, Salisbury, NC 28146 — about 45 minutes north of Charlotte via I-85
- 🎟️ Admission: Free to enter; small fees for select attractions
- 👨👩👧 Ages: All ages
- 🌞 Best seasons: Spring through fall; splash pad open seasonally (May–August)
- 🎡 Highlights: Playground, splash pad, carousel ($1), mini golf ($4), gem mining, paddle boats, Rowan Wildlife Adventures, camping cabins
- 🚂 Train: Closed — new ADA-compliant electric trains expected December 2026
- 📞 Contact: 704-216-7800 | rowancountync.gov/Dan-Nicholas-Park
Note: The miniature train at Dan Nicholas Park has been closed since August 2024. Rowan County purchased new ADA-compliant electric trains in January 2026 and is aiming to debut them in December 2026. Check the Dan Nicholas Park Facebook Page for the latest updates.
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
(CURRENTLY CLOSED for repairs!) The small indoor nature center features fish and reptiles native to the area — find it across from the splash pad and next to the barnyard. It’s free and air-conditioned, making it a great spot to cool down between outdoor activities.
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 Until Further Notice)
The train at Dan Nicholas Park has been closed since August 2024, when it derailed. Rowan County approved the purchase of two brand-new, fully electric, ADA-compliant replica trains in January 2026 — a $1.3 million investment. The new trains will run on wider tracks (24 inches, up from 16) for improved safety, and the route will nearly double in length, giving riders a longer tour of the park. The county is aiming to debut the new trains in December 2026. Follow the park on Facebook for the latest reopening updates.
The Barnyard and Wildlife Adventures
In addition to the 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
Phone: 704-216-7800
Camping & Cabin Reservations: 704-216-7808
Dan Nicholas Park FAQ
Is admission to Dan Nicholas Park free?
Yes! There is no general admission fee to enter Dan Nicholas Park. Individual attractions like the carousel ($1), mini golf ($4), gem mining ($11–$57 per bucket), paddle boats ($2/person), Wildlife Adventures, and the barnyard charge small separate fees.
Is the Dan Nicholas Park train running?
Not yet. The miniature train has been closed since August 2024 following a derailment. Rowan County is replacing it with two new ADA-compliant, fully electric replica trains and is targeting a December 2026 debut. Check the park’s Facebook page for the latest updates.
How far is Dan Nicholas Park from Charlotte?
Dan Nicholas Park is located in Salisbury, NC (Rowan County), approximately 45 minutes north of Charlotte via I-85. It makes an easy and affordable half-day or full-day trip from the Charlotte area.
Can you camp at Dan Nicholas Park?
Yes! The park has a campground for tents and RVs (starting at $25/night, up to $30 depending on power needs) and six camping cabins with heat, air conditioning, microwaves, refrigerators, and grills ($55/night). Reservations can be made online or by calling 704-216-7808.
