Jordan Lake camping options extend beyond the lakeshore into the surrounding Piedmont region. At 240 feet above sea level, the area features rolling woodland terrain with mixed pine and hardwood forests. Most campgrounds stay open year-round, though summer temperatures regularly reach the 90s with high humidity, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Cane Creek Campground and RV Park offers fishing access with lake views. "Beautiful little park nestled into the woods! The 40s sites seem to be the best spots to get for a view or access to Lake activities," notes one visitor. The park maintains stocked ponds where campers can fish without venturing to the main lake.
Hiking trails: Multiple parks in the region feature hiking paths through typical Piedmont forest. "Great hiking trails," mentions a camper about Cane Creek. For military families, Smith Lake Army RV Park provides "Bike and Hiking trails all throughout the site. Fishing as well - with respective fishing license."
Water recreation: Kayak and paddleboat rentals are available at several locations. According to a Smith Lake review, "You can rent kayaks and paddle boats right on the water front, but the beach is only open on Weekends until Labor Day."
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Spring Hill RV Park near Chapel Hill earns praise for its natural setting. One camper notes, "The park is nicely hidden in the trees; it's only about 10 min to Chapel Hill/Carrboro stores, restaurants, etc. The spaces are far enough apart that they aren't on top of each other."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the region maintain their bathhouses regularly. At Fayetteville RV Resort & Cottages, "Two newly remodeled bathhouses and laundry rooms. Staff keeps them clean throughout the day, we never had an issue with dirty or un-stocked bathrooms."
Family activities: Many parks offer recreational amenities beyond swimming. "So much to do for the kiddos and adults. Two pools, hot tub, mini golf, basketball court, horseshoes and playground all included in your price," writes a Fayetteville RV Resort visitor.
What you should know
Military base proximity: For those seeking rv sites near B. Everett Jordan Lake, some nearby options are on military installations. Smith Lake Army RV Park is "next to Simmons Army Air Field so, expect whirlybirds at all hours buzzing the CG. All the sounds of freedom are to be expected and enjoyed."
Reservation requirements: During peak seasons, advance booking is essential. Many campers report sites fill quickly, especially for holiday weekends. Non-holiday weekdays typically offer better availability.
Internet connectivity: For remote workers camping near Jordan Lake, wifi quality varies by location. Spring Hill RV Park gets positive reviews: "The Wifi is excellent and, I believe, cell service is good for pretty much everyone since it's so close to the Triangle."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Jones Station RV Park provides a "small playground" among its amenities. Cane Creek Campground is noted for family-friendly features: "Plenty of places to tent camp or RV camp! Places to fish things for kids to play on and of course places to shower after!"
Weekend activities: Some parks organize regular events for younger campers. Fayetteville RV Resort "had scheduled kid activities and movie night with popcorn" during one family's stay. The resort also offers a "free waffle breakfast every Saturday."
Safety considerations: Parents appreciate campgrounds with clearly defined boundaries. One camper mentions Jones Station's layout allows children some independence while remaining visible from most sites.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: RVers near Jordan Lake value parks with adequate distance between vehicles. At Raleigh Oaks RV Resort, reviewers appreciate the "large, mostly level, pull through spots." Another notes it's "immaculately clean and well maintained."
Propane access: For extended stays in rv campgrounds near Jordan Lake, on-site propane service is convenient. At Jordan Dam RV Park, "if you leave your tank on your picnic table, Earl will come and fill it. This was extremely convenient during the winter months, when we were filling one of our tanks every few days."
Monthly rates: Several parks offer significant discounts for longer stays. Multiple reviewers mention reasonable monthly rates for extended-stay campers, particularly during off-peak seasons when nightly rates at premium waterfront sites drop considerably.
