Latham-Whitehurst Nature Park

Latham-Whitehurst Nature Park, located in New Bern, North Carolina, is a peaceful 133-acre coastal preserve that opened in 2011 as Craven County’s first nature park. Situated about one mile north of Lee’s Landing, the park provides a tranquil escape for nature enthusiasts, featuring activities such as hiking, bird watching, and kayaking.

The park boasts well-maintained features, including color-coded walking trails that range from 0.1 to 0.8 miles, a 2,000-foot boardwalk with an observation area, a fishing section, and a canoe/kayak launch along Broad Creek. In addition, there are picnic shelters and restrooms available for visitors.

With over 130 bird species sighted, the park’s diverse ecosystem makes it a haven for wildlife observation. Its scenic trails and eco-friendly amenities create an ideal setting for families and individuals looking to connect with New Bern’s natural beauty.

We began our hike on the yellow trail, which provides the most direct route to the observation deck. On our way back, we explored the other trails. Many of these trails are not well-marked (when we hiked), making it difficult to determine which path you are on at times. However, we never felt lost during our hike. This park is definitely worth a visit when you’re in New Bern.