6101 Cole Mill Road, Durham, NC 27705-9275
(919) 383-1686
eno.river@ncmail.net

Ecological information
In spite of dense urban development nearby, the woodlands of Eno River State Park are a peaceful haven. In the past, the timber and farming industries took away much of the forest, but the ridges, slopes and flood plains are once again growing thick with vegetation. Pine, cedar, poplar, maple, dogwood, oak and hickory dominate the area. Mountain laurel, Catawba rhododendron and ferns grow on the slopes and bluffs. Wildflowers bloom beneath the trees in spring and vines such as greenbrier, grape and trumpet flower are part of the backdrop of natural beauty at the park.

Plant communities along the river provide the perfect home for various animals. In the old fields, you can find bobwhite quail and eastern cottontails resting in the weeds. White-tailed deer, raccoons and opossums feed on the fruits and seeds of the hardwood forest. You might even catch a glimpse of a chipmunk, gray squirrel or possibly a river otter.

The birds of Eno River provide a symphony of music at the park. The calls of the red-tailed hawk, great horned owl and barred owl mix with the melodies of songbirds. Wood ducks, great blue herons and belted kingfishers thrive around the river.

One of the most intriguing animals in the park is the beaver. This resourceful creature was almost extinct in North Carolina due to excessive trapping but is now back in many parts of the state. Although seldom seen, gnawed stumps and tree trunks are telltale signs that a beaver has been searching for food. The best times to catch a glimpse of the beaver are at dusk and dawn along the river.