The best parks & outdoor spots in Johnston County

Dunn Erwin Rail Trail quietly links downtown Dunn and Erwin with five flat miles of crushed stone through farms, cotton fields, and wetlands. Great for a leash-friendly dog walk, family ride, or training run, with clear crossings and on-trail maps plus history tidbits to keep it interesting.

From the Dunn newsletter, October 15, 2026

Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park keeps Wilson’s sky lively with giant wind-powered sculptures by folk legend Vollis Simpson, and the vibe is pure happy. Swing by for breezy color therapy, a farmers and artisan market or a concert, then pop into the museum and gift shop to learn more.

From the Wilson newsletter, October 11, 2026

Myrick Vineyards LLC is a family owned, country vineyard in the heart of Johnston County offering muscadine grapes for wine, fresh market snacking, and a you pick that turns into a mini ag lesson. They carry on a 400 year old North Carolina wine tradition... bring a picnic mindset this week.

From the Johnston County newsletter, October 22, 2026

When cabin fever hits, Mina Weil Park delivers with an outdoor pool, ball fields for pickup bragging rights, tennis and basketball courts, a playground that actually wears kids out, and outdoor fitness stations so you can sneak in a workout while they race you to the swings.

From the Goldsboro newsletter, October 19, 2026

Busco Beach and ATV Park is the go-to playground for ATVs and dirt bikes, with trails that change daily across mud pits, water crossings, hill climbs, and hard packed wood trails. Add campsites and a man-made beach, and you’ve got a weekend escape locals have trusted since 1999.

From the Goldsboro newsletter, September 14, 2026

Peacock Park is that no-fuss neighborhood green where kid energy meets open grass, with a dependable playground for climbing and make-believe. When summer heat kicks in, the outdoor Peacock Pool opens for splash time, perfect for a low-key picnic, lazy catch, or just letting the kids burn zoomies.

From the Goldsboro newsletter, October 12, 2026

For a low-stress reset, wander the walking paths, snag a picnic table, and let the water features do their zen thing at Wilson Botanical Gardens. It’s a volunteer-tended living classroom with native and heritage plantings, engaging educational displays, and, best of all, admission is always free.

From the Wilson newsletter, October 5, 2026