Parks, Recreation & Open Space  
  About Wake County Parks
  American Tobacco Trail
  Blue Jay Point
  Crowder
  Harris Lake
  Historic Oak View County Park
  Historic Yates Mill
  Lake Crabtree
  North Wake Landfill District Park
  Open Space
  Take A Child Outside Week  

About the Park


Park Mission Statement

In the tradition of a great state which celebrates its past, cherishes its heritage and nurtures its resources for future generations, Historic Yates Mill County Park interprets and preserves our agricultural heritage, and environmental and historical resources, while providing cultural enrichment and a sense of stewardship made possible by public and private partnerships.

Park Hours:

  • The park is open 7 days per week, from 8 a.m. to sunset.
  • Admittance to the park is FREE.
  • The historic mill building is open for guided tours by appointment (there is a small tour fee).
  • The park and mill are closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year's Day.

A.E. Finley Center for Education and Research:

  • The center, including the exhibit hall, is open 7 days per week, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • Admittance to the Finley Center is FREE.


For more information about:


Rules and Regulations

Safety and enjoyment go hand in hand at Historic Yates Mill County Park. The following rules and regulations have been established to ensure a safe and pleasant visit.
  1. Parking in designated areas only – no roadside parking.
  2. Please respect NC State University property – hike only on designated trails.
  3. Fishing is allowed from the boardwalks only – All baits except minnows are allowed: View park fishing rules and regulations. All North Carolina Wilflife Resources Commission Rules and Regulations apply. View NC Wildlife Resources Commission Rules and Regulations.
  4. Picnicking in designated areas only – use is on a first-come, first-served basis. There is no reserved use.
  5. The following are prohibited:
    1. Smoking
    2. Hunting
    3. Firearms and explosives of any kind
    4. Open fires of any kind unless special permission is given by park staff
    5. Pets except those that are trained assistance animals
    6. Alcoholic beverages
    7. Horses, Bicycles and off-road vehicles
    8. Collection or removal of any animal or plant except those authorized by park staff or partners
    9. Metal detectors
    10. Access to areas under the mill
    11. Geo caches
    12. Walking or climbing on the mill dam and rocks below the dam
    13. Swimming
    14. Personal boating – park and university boats are allowed
    15. Camping
    16. Amplified music