Facilities

Little River Lake Boat House is closed for emergency maintenance. Temporary outdoor service center and portable restrooms have been set up to continue park operations.

Motorized boats not available for rent until further notice.

Non-motorized boat rental FREE this weekend (while supplies last).

Little River Lake

Little River Lake was completed in 1987. When full, it is 549 acres and the average depth is approximately 25 feet. The facility is located at the intersection of Orange Factory and Blalock Roads in northern Durham County. 

Little River Lake offers bank fishing. N.C. Wildlife Resource Commission  fishing licenses are required. Little River Lake is a primary water supply for the City of Durham. For this reason, we must limit and control recreational activities at the lake. Please adhere to guidelines and instructions to protect our water source. This year, Durham Parks and Recreation will phase out battery and motor boat rentals at Little River Lake to move toward more environmentally and financially sustainable non-motorized options. Fishing kayaks are available for rent.

2023 Season

• Little River is open to the public Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday from Friday, March 10 through Monday, November 6, 2023.
• Lake hours are from 6:30 a.m.-6 p.m.

The lakes will also be open on the following holidays:

• Good Friday
• Easter Sunday
• Memorial Day
• Independence Day
• Labor Day

 Little River Lake Fees

Activity	City Resident with Play More Card	City Resident without Play more Card	Non-City Resident with Play More Card	Non-City Resident without Play More Card
Bank Fishing (per day) Youth / Teen (0-18)	$0	$0	$4.50	$5
Bank Fishing (per day) Adults (19-54)	$2.70	$3	$7.20	$8
Bank Fishing (per day) Seniors (55+)	$1.80	$2	$6.30	$7
Bank Fishing (seasonal) Youth / Teen (0-18)	$0	$0	$15	$15
Bank Fishing (seasonal) Adults (19-54)	$48	$48	$63	$63
Bank Fishing (seasonal) Seniors (55+)	$32	$32	$47	$47
6-Hour Boat / Canoe / Kayak Rental	$5.40	$6	$9.90	$11
Electric Motor + Battery Rental (per 6 hours)	$11	$11	$11	$11

We do not give refunds or free rentals.

To receive the Play More Card discount, you must show your Play More Card to the attendant. Visit our Play More Card page for more information on the benefits program. 

Little River Lake Rules

• There is no swimming in Little River Lake.
• Dogs are not permitted in or on the water.
• Personal boats, motors, and batteries are not allowed on Little River Lake.
• Persons renting canoes, kayaks or Jon boats must wear a PFD (life jacket) at all times.
• No smoking, alcohol, or weapons are permitted.
• Lakes may only be accessed during operating hours, Friday through Monday mid-March to mid-November and with a permit purchased at the boathouse.