This news item expired on Sunday, May 30, 2021 so the information below could be outdated or incorrect.
After closing more than a year ago in response to COVID-19, picnic shelters in Buncombe County parks are available to rent for family gatherings, birthdays, and other outdoor celebrations. Current North Carolina public health guidance for outdoor gatherings must be observed at all times.
In addition to covered shelters, many tables and grills are available at parks at no charge on a first-come basis. See below for rental information and policies. Public WiFi is not currently available at any Buncombe County park location.
Buncombe County Sports Park (58 Apac Dr. in West Asheville/Enka) has one large picnic shelter available to rent for $75. Other park amenities include disc golf, sand volleyball, bocce, cornhole, playground, community garden, edible orchard, and sports fields. Major enhancements planned include field improvements, additional multipurpose fields, a dog park, new restrooms, outdoor classrooms, and the Enka Heritage Trail greenway. To reserve the shelter, use the form below or call (828) 250-4260.
Charles D. Owen Park (875 Warren Wilson Rd. in Swannanoa) offers two large picnic shelters that can be reserved through Asheville Black Bears Baseball Club for $75 each by email or phone at (828) 545-1955. Located next to the Swannanoa River, the park includes two large fishing ponds (North Carolina fishing license required), fitness trail, basketball courts, softball and baseball fields, walking trails, playground, and more.
Lake Julian Park (37 Lake Julian Rd. in Arden) has three large ($100 per reservation slot) and three small ($75 per reservation slot) shelters that have all been renovated in the past year. Lake Julian also offers fishing (North Carolina fishing license and daily fee required), disc golf, sand volleyball, horseshoes, cornhole, playgrounds, paddleboat rentals, lake access (daily or annual pass required), and a paved walking trail. To reserve a shelter, use the form below or call (828) 458-222.
Small shelters can accommodate fewer than 40 people. Large shelters can accommodate 40-90 people. An application must be completed and payment received within seven days of placing your reservation. See rental agreement for full details.
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