Camping cabins near Apex, North Carolina provide convenient access to the region's network of lakes and forest trails. Located in the eastern Piedmont region at approximately 500 feet elevation, the area experiences mild winters and warm, humid summers with average July temperatures reaching 90°F. Fall camping season typically extends longer than mountain destinations, with comfortable temperatures often lasting through October.
What to do
Water activities at Jordan Lake: Jordan Lake State Recreation Area offers multiple water access points for fishing, swimming, and boating. "Great Campsites, nice wooded sites and close to lake access... Boat ramp in campground. Swim area and playground," notes a visitor to Crosswinds Campground.
Trail exploration: The Mountains to Sea Trail connects through Falls Lake Recreation Area with multiple access points for day hiking. "We've camped here 2 or 3 times now and we can't get enough of this park. It is huge, covered in hiking trails like Mountains to Sea Trail and Falls Lake Trail," mentions a visitor to Rolling View.
Bird watching: Falls Lake provides habitat for numerous bird species, particularly during migration seasons. "Great sites here at this CG in central NC. Minutes from the RDU area, convenient to 540... Connect with the Mountains to Sea trail too for a great hike!" reports a camper.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many campsites throughout the region offer good separation between neighbors. "Loved having a double site with my parents. Close to the beach where we sat for hours. Clean bathrooms. Spacious sites. Plenty of privacy," according to a visitor to Crosswinds Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The forested settings around Apex provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. "Deer walked right behind our site," mentions one camper at Jordan Lake, while another at William B. Umstead State Park notes the "peaceful and dense area" of the forest.
Proximity to amenities: Despite feeling remote, most cabin areas maintain convenient access to supplies. "Great day camping spot. Conveniently located north of Raleigh, NC and close to many major highways," shares a camper at B.W. Wells campground.
What you should know
Gate closure times: Some campgrounds have strict entry policies. "They lock the gate after a certain hour. If you need something or arrive after hours you are out of luck," warns a camper at Jordan Lake.
Seasonal considerations: While some facilities remain open year-round, others have limited seasons. "The bathhouse wasn't quite warm enough for showers in November temps, when we tented. January was just as cold, but we rented a camper," shares a visitor to Falls Lake State Recreation Area.
Site drainage issues: Some campsites may experience drainage problems during rain. "Mud hole, the site we had was under water after a light rain and didn't dry," reports one camper at Crosswinds Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature playground facilities near cabin areas. "Loved that there was a playground near the site. The site itself was gravelly and not super private but it was great - the hikes around were stunning," shares a visitor to B.W. Wells Campground.
Swimming areas: Designated swimming areas with sandy beaches provide safe water access. "Close to the beach where we sat for hours. Clean bathrooms. Spacious sites. Plenty of privacy," notes a camper at Jordan Lake.
Short hiking options: William B. Umstead offers family-friendly trails suitable for young hikers. "There are multiple trails, for varying skill level. I have not yet camped here, but I've hiked on the trails," mentions a visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Jordan Lake accommodates larger RVs with spacious sites. "This was our very first full-time RV park. We loved being in the park and it easily accommodated our 39ft. Class A. Back-in site but with plenty of room to do so," reports a visitor to Crosswinds Campground.
Dump station locations: Note that not all campgrounds offer full hookups. "This campground is pretty great except for two things. There is no septic on your site, and they lock the gate after a certain hour," advises a Jordan Lake camper.
Level site availability: Most RV sites throughout the area feature level pads. "The camping sites are spacious and most are level," notes a visitor to Crosswinds Campground, making setup easier for larger rigs.