08/21/2026
It’s the 50th anniversary of , and we want YOU to be part of the celebration by sharing your favorite memories in our parks and preserves! 📸💚
Former County Park employee Megan Beasley remembers: "Wake County parks have always held a special place in my heart. Growing up in southern Wake County, I remember class picnics at Crowder, a 5th grade field trip to Blue Jay Point, and countless hours at Harris Lake and Yates Mill. But my favorite of all is easily Lake Crabtree County Park. While in college at NCSU, majoring in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism, I was lucky enough to stumble across a job opening in boat rentals and had the best summer learning how to paddle, row, pedal, and sail (back when they rented sunfish sailboats).. and also how to rescue guests who maybe weren’t so good at paddling or sailing. I loved it so much, I stuck around the next summer to become the boat rental manager while also completing my college internship. I learned more about the wildlife and plants that grew around the lake and even created a paddling trail along the lake so our guests in the water could learn more about the park’s natural features. Today, I’m lucky to get to bring my kids so they can also enjoy the beauty of Lake Crabtree while they fly kites, hike a trail, or play on the playground. And one day, before I know it, they’ll be big enough to paddle me around the lake."
Have a memory to share? Your photo could be featured on our social media as we celebrate five decades of fun!
Submit your photos at wake.gov/parks50.
