Jordan Lake State Recreation Area encompasses 46,000 acres of natural landscape with seven campgrounds offering diverse camping experiences around the shoreline. Located in Chatham County near Apex, the lake spans 14,000 acres with 180 miles of shoreline. Summer temperatures average 85-90°F, while spring and fall typically range from 60-75°F, providing favorable camping conditions throughout most of the year.
What to do
Fishing for variety: Jordan Lake supports diverse fish populations that attract anglers year-round. At Parkers Creek Campground, campers enjoy lakefront access with minimal powerboat traffic. "Quite lake with few powerboats so my partner could enjoy it with our dog in a blowup kayak," reports Joe Y.
Wildlife viewing: The recreation area hosts significant bald eagle populations, particularly during winter months. At Holly Point, campers appreciate the natural surroundings. "Large park with a hodgepodge of level sites and not so much. Boat ramp, swim beach and a small amphitheater," notes John R., highlighting the diverse terrain.
Swimming in designated areas: Several campgrounds maintain swimming beaches with gradual entry points. "There's a nice sand beach on the lake and a boat launch as well. Some of the sites offer a tie-off of your boat adjacent to your campsite," writes Paula U. about Crosswinds Campground.
What campers like
Spacious waterfront campsites: Many sites throughout Jordan Lake offer direct water views or access. "Like the way the campsites take advantage of the rolling terrain. Campsites are roomy. Lots of shade," says Stuart O. about Poplar Point Campground, noting that "sites F36 and F40 are situated so the awning side of the camper has a direct, unobstructed view of the water."
Fishing opportunities: Anglers appreciate the lake's reputation for largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish. "We love camping at Lake Jordan... There's a nice sand beach on the lake and a boat launch as well. Some of the sites offer a tie-off of your boat adjacent to your campsite," mentions Paula U.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathhouses at most Jordan Lake campgrounds. "Clean bathrooms and showers. Lots of good waterfront campsites," reports Terri W. about Poplar Point, highlighting the balance between natural settings and necessary amenities.
What you should know
Campground differences: Each campground within Jordan Lake Recreation Area has distinct characteristics. At New Hope Overlook Primitive Campground, "you have to backpack in several hundred feet, and select a site," according to Myron C., making it suitable for those seeking a more rustic experience.
Water conditions vary: Water quality can fluctuate throughout the year. "When I went to the lake to filter water, the water was still brown," reports Myron C. about New Hope Overlook, suggesting campers should bring adequate water supplies.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. "They lock the gate after a certain hour. If you need something or arrive after hours you are out of luck," warns Debbie F. about Crosswinds Campground, emphasizing the importance of planning arrival times.
Tips for camping with families
Beachfront camping: For families with children, sites near swimming areas provide convenient water access. "Loved having a double site with my parents. Close to the beach where we sat for hours. Clean bathrooms. Spacious sites. Plenty of privacy," shares Angela M. about Crosswinds Campground.
Educational opportunities: The recreation area offers wildlife viewing and natural history lessons. At Falls Lake, Elizabeth V. notes, "They had a controlled burn of the Holly Hill Loop in February. It was really neat and educational to see the charred bottoms of the trees."
Dog-friendly trails: Multiple dog-friendly campgrounds near Apex feature trails suitable for family hikes with pets. "We brought our dog on our hike. The trails are easily followed and they include long and short Trails for your enjoyment," says Christine J. about Moccasin Branch Campground at Raven Rock State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Most Jordan Lake campgrounds accommodate medium-sized RVs, but site dimensions vary. "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," shares Paul H. about Rolling View at Falls Lake.
Hookup information: While many sites offer water and electric, sewer hookups are limited. "Each site has water and electric hook-up. Sewer however is a dump station," notes Paul H., mentioning that the "sites are big with a picnic table, fire pit and lantern hook."
Cell service reliability: For those needing connectivity, reception varies by location. "For those that care about working on laptop or streaming TV while camping, our cellphone hotspots worked great. We got anywhere from 30-55mbps with our Verizon cell coverage," reports Andrew S. about Poplar Point, information particularly useful for remote workers.
