From Trail to Riverbend: Discover Activities Along the Neuse River

The Neuse River has long shaped the character of eastern Raleigh, carving a path through forests, wetlands, and open landscapes, and inviting people to slow down and experience its natural beauty. More than a waterway, the river serves as a gathering place, a source of recreation, and a defining feature of the region.

At BanksTwenty, the Rivercountry setting influences every facet of the community. Trails, natural green spaces, and thoughtful neighborhood design encourage residents to spend more time outdoors, connect with neighbors, and embrace the rhythms of everyday life. The name pays tribute to Mile Marker 20 along the proposed Neuse River Blueway, encapsulating the community's enduring connection to the waterway.

There is a reason the Neuse River continues to draw people back season after season. The landscapes, trails, and quiet stretches of shoreline offer something different each time, whether that means an active morning outdoors or an evening spent unwinding close to nature. Read on to discover more ways to experience the Neuse and all it has to offer.

Discover the Neuse River Greenway

There's no better place to start than the Neuse River Greenway, the region’s defining outdoor experience and a beloved staple of life along the Neuse. Stretching for almost 30 miles, this scenic corridor invites walking, running, and biking at your own pace, with river views, quiet wetlands, and winding boardwalks along the way.

Spend a Day on the Water at Anderson Point Park

Continue along the river to Anderson Point Park, a natural extension of the Neuse River Greenway and a go-to destination for outdoor recreation. Here, river access and direct Greenway connections make it simple to spend the day outdoors—whether canoeing, picnicking, or just enjoying the fresh air. The park brings families and outdoor enthusiasts together, reinforcing what makes this area unique: the river isn’t just nearby; it's ingrained in the lifestyle.

Explore the River Up Close by Tube, Kayak, or Canoe

Take your experience from trail to water by exploring the Neuse in a tube, kayak, or canoe. The nearest access point from BanksTwenty is the Poole Road Launch, making it easy to spend a day on the water. As you plan your outing, check out resources from the City of Raleigh here, and keep an eye on plans for the future Neuse River Whitewater Park. Whether you’re drifting or paddling, this is Rivercountry living in its most adventurous form—immersive, scenic, and rooted in discovery.

Visit Robertson Millpond Preserve

Discover the distinct natural beauty of Robertson Millpond Preserve, an 85-acre park off of Buffalo Creek. Known for its rare cypress‑gum swamp, the preserve offers a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience shaped by still water, towering trees, and rich wildlife. Here, the character of Rivercountry feels untouched, making this a favorite for nature lovers, kayakers, and photographers alike.

Enjoy the Fresh Air at Mingo Creek Park

_{Photo by David Williams}

Mingo Creek Park, a go-to for families of all ages, offers playgrounds, open green areas, and walking trails that make nature part of the everyday. With a dog park, basketball courts, and connection to the Greenway system, there's something for everyone to enjoy. It’s a top pick for an active lifestyle, whether for leisurely walks, weekend runs, or anything in between.

Life in BanksTwenty: Close to the River, Connected to Raleigh
From exploring the Neuse River Greenway to paddling around riverbends, each experience reflects a larger story. In this part of Raleigh, the river is an integral part of the lifestyle, guiding how days unfold and connections grow.

Life at BanksTwenty extends beyond the river, with nearby parks, hidden gems, and Raleigh destinations shaping everyday rhythms. Close by, spots like The Depot on First, Oak City Brewing Company, and Unhinged Coffee & Co, along with local shops and restaurants, give the area a charming small-town feel. Just beyond, Raleigh favorites like Transfer Co. Food Hall, Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing, and Dorothea Dix Park offer opportunities to grab a bite to eat, connect with neighbors, or take in skyline views.

From mornings spent kayaking to evenings with friends downtown, BanksTwenty puts you at the heart of it all. As BanksTwenty moves toward its first home opportunities, now is the time for buyers to get acquainted with the Rivercountry lifestyle that guides the community, and to join the interest list for future updates.