Shallow Ford Natural Area
Woodland trails, a wildflower meadow and picnic spots along the Haw River.
Explore roughly five miles of trails through this natural area, including access to the Haw River Trail. A meadow, observation deck and picnic areas offer places to pause. Use the county’s current map and conditions information to plan your walk. Backcountry camping is a separate activity to arrange through the park.
Official visitor information: https://parks.alamancecountync.gov/outdoors-2/hrt/shallow-ford-natural-area/
Details checked September 14, 2026.
Overnight camping
Three backcountry sites require hiking or paddling access. The hike from the parking area is approximately one mile. Water and restrooms are at the parking area. Confirm the approach using the current trail map; ordinary day-use access does not reserve a site.
Reserve: https://alamance.recdesk.com/
Camping information: https://parks.alamancecountync.gov/camping-2/
Reservation questions: 336-229-2410. Reserved nights run from 3 p.m. to 10 a.m.; park gates lock at the posted closing time with no entry or exit afterward. Confirm seasonal hours before traveling. Camping details checked September 15, 2026.
Explore roughly five miles of trails through this natural area, including access to the Haw River Trail. A meadow, observation deck and picnic areas offer places to pause. Use the county’s current map and conditions information to plan your walk. Backcountry camping is a separate activity to arrange through the park.
Official visitor information: https://parks.alamancecountync.gov/outdoors-2/hrt/shallow-ford-natural-area/
Details checked September 14, 2026.
Overnight camping
Three backcountry sites require hiking or paddling access. The hike from the parking area is approximately one mile. Water and restrooms are at the parking area. Confirm the approach using the current trail map; ordinary day-use access does not reserve a site.
Reserve: https://alamance.recdesk.com/
Camping information: https://parks.alamancecountync.gov/camping-2/
Reservation questions: 336-229-2410. Reserved nights run from 3 p.m. to 10 a.m.; park gates lock at the posted closing time with no entry or exit afterward. Confirm seasonal hours before traveling. Camping details checked September 15, 2026.