North Carolina is a popular vacation destination for anyone seeking to experience scenic mountain towns in the western regions and pristine Atlantic beaches along the eastern coast. Yet, tucked into the less-visited heart of the state is one of the most picturesque camping destinations in all of North Carolina. Just 25 miles away from Downtown Raleigh, Jordan Lake State Recreation Area offers easily accessible lakeshore, woods, and family-friendly campsites, all at an affordable price.
Located in the town of Apex, which was the literal apex of the Chatham County Railroad that made the town rich during the 19th century, Jordan Lake is one of the most recent additions to the town’s history. Owing to a terrible tropical storm that decimated the area in 1945, the government commissioned the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to construct a dam and reservoir for future water resources. The dam was completed in 1967, and Jordan Lake (as it is known today) was filled with water in 1982.
Now a recreation area maintained by the state, Jordan Lake offers visitors endless opportunities to fish, hike, boat, swim, and camp. From Raleigh, it’s only a little over a half an hour drive on Routes 40 and 64 to reach Jordan Lake. Once you’re there, you can set up camp and prepare for a relaxing stay filled with plenty of outdoor fun.
Setting up camp at Jordan Lake, North Carolina
Jordan Lake offers a different kind of waterfront camping experience than its coastal cousin, Carolina Beach State Park. Instead of being on the ocean, the over 1,000 campsites at the Crosswinds, Parker’s Creek, Vista Point, and Poplar Point campgrounds offer visitors to Jordan Lake a chance to bring their tents or RV’s lakeside for a tranquil camping weekend. While the sheer number of sites might make you think you’re pretty much guaranteed a walk-in spot, it’s better practice to reserve in advance to make sure you get the location and amenities you want.
Each of the four campgrounds are arranged on various loops that can be easily driven through in a car or trailer. A number of the sites come with water and electrical hook ups, and all camping areas are equipped with bathhouses, bathrooms, and RV dump sites. There are also a few handicap accessible sites, so those with disabilities can enjoy camping at the lake. Waterfront campsites, especially those at Poplar Point, can fill up fast. However, regardless of whether you’re on the water or not, the lake is never far away.
Camping is seasonally limited, and some loops may be closed on certain years due to renovations or site work. It’s best to check the North Carolina Division of Parks and Recreation website for all the latest information. Camping fees are reasonable. As of 2025, they range from $80 per night for a duplex RV site with hookups, to $30 per night for a standard tent site with no hookups.
Exploring Jordan Lake State Recreation Area
