Just off Airport Boulevard near Raleigh-Durham International, there is a fabulous wilderness park with playgrounds, boating, and an awesome wildlife observation tower. You can rent boats or bring your own canoes and kayaks to launch off of the accessible and public boat launch for an amazing day on the lake, where you can view heron and all sorts of fish up close. There is a lovely open play area in a field near the lake, great for frisbee and other sports. A sand Volleyball court is also located near the boat launch. 
The thing that makes Crabtree Park memorable for us, though, is the 4-story observation tower overlooking the lake. The kids love running up the stairs to the top and gazing out to watch birds or planes fly by. I hope you and your family get a chance to spend a sunny day there soon!
With Love,
Turtle Dove
Know Before You Go: There are restrooms at the tower, the manager building, and the public boat ramp area. There is no food available, but water fountains are located at the tower.
Each of the 2 playgrounds are shaded and near the lake and picnic shelters.
There is a cool old historic home site if you take the trail from the open playspace. It has some great interpretation about growing tobacco.
Certain trails are closed from time to time. Check the website and look for signs to stay off of unsafe trails. Parts of the greenway are under construction as of May 1, 2018.
Fishing at the park is catch and release.
With Love, Turtle Dove 