Recreation Review: Frank Liske Park
For UNC Charlotte students looking for a place to spend time outdoors and escape the chaos of campus life, Franke Liske Park in Concord offers a large variety of recreation activities. Located at 4001 Stough Road, Concord, NC 28027, .the park is about a 19-minute drive from campus and has activities for people of all ages. The park features walking trails, a 10-acre lake, mini golf, sports complexes, disc golf, picnicking and grilling areas, and more.
The park is most easily accessed by car from UNC Charlotte’s campus. The drive is about 19 minutes but can be a little longer depending on time of day. For people who prefer biking, it would take about an hour ; however, without bike lanes on main highways, you have to take back roads such as Pavilion Boulevard, Roberta Road, and Stough Road. There is no direct bus or light rail access, and walking is not a practical option.
Franke Liske Park’s most noticeable feature is its historic barn and silo (pictured right), which is connected to the former Stonewall Jackson Training School farm. The structure is most commonly used for large gatherings, weddings, birthday parties, and other events.
trails and nature
The most popular feature at Franke Liske is the 2.1-mile loop trail. The trail is considered easy, with mainly flat gravel and dirt, making it accessible for walkers, runners, bikers, and pets. Trees line the whole trail, providing plenty of shade for visitorson warmer days.
The park also provides opportunities for visitors to see wildlife. Ducks, deer, and many bird species can be found all around the park. Bird species such as the great blue heron, belted kingfishers, and hawks can be found. The park’s lake is home to fish such as bluegill, bass, perch, and catfish. Milkweed has also been planted around the park to feed caterpillars and help support the growth of monarch butterflies.
lake and recreation
Not much of a walker? No worries, the 10-acre lake gives visitors another way to spend time outdoors. Visitors can use paddle boats and kayaks or spend the day fishing for just 3 dollars.
The park also has several recreational facilities. Franke Liske Park has three playgrounds, an 18-hole mini golf course, pickleball courts, tennis courts, and volleyball nets with sand. Classes are also offered for both pickleball and tennis. Franke Liske also offers an 11-field soccer complex, which provides space for organized sports and programs involving groups such as Charlotte Soccer Academy and Concord Parks and Recreation.
The park also has picnic and grilling areas, giving families and groups a place to spend more time at the park after using the recreational facilities.
upcoming events
Franke Liske Park also hosts events throughout the year.
The Free Creek Week Festival will take place Sept. 26 and will offer visitors free activities such as kayaking, paddle boating, fishing, creek stomps and water games.
The park will also host the Jack O’ Lantern 5K and Fun Run, Oct. 24. The fun run begins at 5 p.m., followed by the 5K at 5:30 p.m.
With trails, lakes, and a variety of recreational facilities, Franke Liske Park gives UNC Charlotte students another option for getting outside, socializing, and enjoying a different environment off of campus.
