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Jordan Lake State Recreation Area campgrounds welcome pets at multiple locations including Poplar Point, Crosswinds, and Parker's Creek. Dogs must be kept on leashes no longer than 6 feet, and owners are responsible for waste cleanup. Each campsite includes a picnic table and fire ring, with most offering water and electric hookups suitable for tent camping and RVs. Crosswinds Campground even accommodates pets in their cabin and glamping options. The heavily wooded sites provide good separation between neighbors, creating privacy for campers with active dogs. Sites remain surprisingly quiet even during busy holiday weekends.
Falls Lake State Recreation Area offers additional pet-friendly options at multiple campgrounds including Holly Point, Rolling View, and B.W. Wells. The campgrounds feature designated dog-friendly hiking trails that wind through pine forests and along shorelines. Campers can access swimming areas where dogs can cool off during hot summer months. William B. Umstead State Park Campground provides another option with pet-friendly tent sites and cabins, plus miles of trails for dog walking. Most campgrounds maintain clean facilities with regular bathroom maintenance, though shower cleanliness varies by location. Many campsites offer generous spacing between neighbors, allowing pets to relax without disturbing other campers. The North Carolina State Fairgrounds provides a more urban camping option with full hookups for RVs, though it lacks amenities beyond the basics.
"Poplar Point Campground could quite possibly be the best campground in all of North Carolina!"
"Poplar Point is located on the banks of the lake in the Jordan Lake State Recreation Area."
from $27 - $37 / night
Check Availability"This area is such a short drive from the triangle area of North Carolina, yet this park feels quite remote. Like many state parks, this one excels in the services department. "
"Located just 30 miles west of Raleigh, Jordan Lake provides 7 different access points throughout this amazing natural preserve. "
from $27 - $77 / night
Check Availability"Pets are welcome, but as everywhere, dogs must be on a leash (not more than 6' long). If you put the address into your GPS, it will take you to the main fairgrounds."
"Restaurants and downtown Raleigh are within short driving distance. Public bathrooms and showers (cold water) are a 2 minute walk to Horse Complex H6, Barn B Very little tree cover."
from $45 / night
Check Availability"We've hiked umstead and other local trails almost every week for the past 5 months."
"Umstead is conveniently located in the heart of Raleigh, NC. It seems to be an outdoor oasis as you can get lost in the woods with the hustle and bustle of the city all around you."
from $27 - $78 / night
Check Availability"Tucked away and nestled off of 98 highway, Rolling View campground is a great, secluded spot."
"I spent a night in Shinleaf walk in campground in April as part of a backpacking trip along the Falls Lake MST trail, sections 8-12."
from $27 - $77 / night
Check Availability"If you find yourself in the hustle and bustle of nearby Raleigh and looking to get away from the crowds and pavement in exchange for some nice shaded nature, hiking trails and calm peace & quiet that"
"The North Carolina State Park campgrounds are typically very nice, and this one is no exception. My site is adjacent to a large, clean, working bathhouse and a 2 minute walk from a swim beach."
from $27 - $77 / night
Check Availability"We brought our dog on our hike. The trails are easily followed and they include long and short Trails for your enjoyment. great day trip."
"The campground is walking distance to Raven Rock trails and you get a free walk up pass to get in. We had a very good time and will definitely go back."
from $27 - $75 / night
Check Availability"This is one of my favorite camping spots in the North Carolina triangle area. There is a tremendous amount of hiking and trails to do around here. "
"Love hiking here with the family and friends plenty of beautiful family and pet friendly trails."
from $17 - $47 / night
Check Availability"The lake is the true star."
"The only bad thing was the traffic noise, so I recommend getting a site near the lake."
"Great hiking trails or you can just read and cook by the fire. Have been going there for years with my kids. An excellent, little known spot."
from $17 / night
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TravelerThis is one of my favorite camping spots in the North Carolina triangle area. There is a tremendous amount of hiking and trails to do around here. The Eno River is more than safe to swim or paddle in. Dogs are welcome here! If you can camp close to the river, I recommend, it's great to fall asleep to the sounds of the river. Bring bug spray!
LegendPoplar Point Campground could quite possibly be the best campground in all of North Carolina! Yes, I know, that’s quite a statement to make, considering all of the amazing places in the great state of North Carolina. So let me explain why I reached this conclusion:
• Some of the most outstanding hiking trails
• Heavily wooded forest paradise that delivers privacy and solitude
• Perfectly maintained amenities such as picnic tables, fold-up fire ring and grills
• Bathroom facilities are some of the best I’ve experienced with state-run facilities
• Direct access to a fantastic lakeside experience, complete with boat launches
• Designated swimming area complete with life vests
• On-site park staff were nothing short of amazing, helpful and incredibly friendly
• Close access to purchase anything that might be needed
Insider’s tip? Be sure to get down to the lake from wherever your campsite is just after sunset and bring a couple of folding chairs and a telescope (pre-planning here is needed!) to catch a glimpse of one of the most amazing star-studded night skies you’ve ever seen in your life!
Happy Camping!
GuideWe stopped for an overnight. Resort was undergoing renovation at the time. But there is propane available; laundry , pool, and dump station. Also catch and release fishing and a dog park.
ScoutThis is our first RV spot. We wanted the amenities for our four year old. Playground, mini golf, horseshoe, 3 dog parks, 2 pools, lots of bathrooms, 2 launderettes, lots of cabins, pull through spots and cabins.
LegendI’m not sure if this campground is correctly named Holly Point Campground, which after my experience, I would rename it HOLY Point Campground, as this outdoor nature preserve is truly a slice of heaven carved out in the middle of North Carolina’s finest camping paradise. If you find yourself in the hustle and bustle of nearby Raleigh and looking to get away from the crowds and pavement in exchange for some nice shaded nature, hiking trails and calm peace & quiet that only nature can offer, then make your way here to Holly Point Campground@ Falls Lake SRA, where you will not be disappointed.
All of the basics are provided in spades – from picnic table, fold-up fire ring / BBQ grill, bear-proof garbage hanger and a nice small pebble-strewn flat patch of well-maintained nature that offers pristine shade from an unrelenting bit of summer North Carolina sunshine from the tall matchstick-like long leave needle pines. While there’s not a terrible amount of brush between the campsites, you will have semi-privacy unlike many other nearby campgrounds.
The on-site facilities (bathrooms& showers) are just slightly north of passable and only a smidge better than you’d expect from a state-run campground, and so this campground gets its only mediocre marks on this front. But that said, there’s plenty of hiking trails to explore and the on-site rangers are incredibly helpful and positive folks that want to ensure you have a great time, but the best amenity on this property is the access to Falls Lake itself, where there is a perfectly sectioned off swimming area, as well as boat launching areas for those that want to fish or simply drop a kayak or canoe in the water and take enjoy a lakeside cruise.
Insider's tips? Here's a handful: (1) While IMHO there is no bad spot here in all of Holly Point Campground, there are obviously some that are better than others. Given this, I would highly rank Loops 4 (#118-119, #121-123) & 5 (#141-147; #149, #150, #152-155) as well as the southern and eastern side of Loop 2 (#36-39; #55-71; #73, #75), given their proximity to and views of Falls Lake itself. Of course, the sites that are located closer to the water are those more preferred; (2) If you're an angler, you'll be looking to catch some large-mouthed bass, yellow perch, blue gill, channel and flathead catfish and I recommend the areas that are heaviest shadowed around the lake edges; (3) When you grow weary of having to fix up that next campsite meal and simply want to error on the side of ease and comfort, then check out nearby Buffalo Bros who serve up some pretty might wings and amazing pies (there's also burgers, sandwiches, wraps, salads and other basic Americana foodstuffs) or Nantucket Grill for some pretty outstanding Jambalaya and seafood diablo pasta; and (4) If you love extreme outdoors adventures, then check out Xtreme Park Adventures for indoor and outdoor courses for paintball and laser tag.
Happy Camping!
LegendThis area is such a short drive from the triangle area of North Carolina, yet this park feels quite remote. Like many state parks, this one excels in the services department.
Bathrooms and showers were clean and comfortable, as were the campsites.
Each camping loop felt tucked away into its own little neighborhood, and the large campsites offered space so that you aren’t stacked right next to your neighbor. We camped in the nonelectric loop (we always bring our solar panel) for 3 nights in mid-February and there were very few campers around, but the neighboring loop with electrical hook-up sites were 3/4 full with large rigs.
Hiking, biking, paddling, are all great things to do during your stay. There is also a boat launch within the park in case power boating or fishing is your thing, but kayaks and canoes can easily launch from the lakeside campsites. It was a bit too chilly to get on the water in February, so we opted for hiking and biking.
The closest services for gas or a few extra snacks are within 5 minutes of the park.
RangerCedarock Park, located in Burlington, North Carolina, is a hidden gem for all sorts of outdoor activities. The park offers hike-in camping with a handful of sites scattered along Rock Creek. The sites are well spaced and can accommodate large groups (you only pay $1 for each additional person for groups larger than 10). The park is also home to 6 miles of hiking trails and 6 miles of equestrian trails. There are two fantastic disc golf courses (I personally enjoy the Wellspring course) and even a historical farm that sheds light on what life was like as a farmer in 19th century North Carolina.
GuideThe North Carolina State Park campgrounds are typically very nice, and this one is no exception. My site is adjacent to a large, clean, working bathhouse and a 2 minute walk from a swim beach.
My cell reception outside the camper is excellent, and of if I had a cell booster it would be adequate for streaming inside the camper. I don’t have one as I depend on Starlink for internet access when traveling. Unfortunately Starlink isn’t going to work in my specific site or in most of the others. This is a wooded campground and all the sites are completely shaded
My site has water and electric. About half of the available RV sites have water and electric, it there is no sewer. There is a dump station in the campground. Unusual for NC State facilities, there are no trash bins placed around the campground, but there is a large dumpster station co-located with the dump station.
It’s about a 15-20 minute drive to shopping, but there are several convenience stores a few minutes away.
The campground is clean and well maintained. It meanders around a very large lake, with several beaches and boat launch areas.
RangerVery clean and well maintained. Best bathrooms we’ve ever seen in a resort/campground. Staff is great, even though they are still no contact check in as of July 2021. We pulled up at 1 and our paper was waiting. Very easy in and out, large long spots, with great yard for each spot. Three dogs parks, two pools, and much more. Lots of long term sees but very very clean and welcoming. Would highly recommend. We stayed here visiting Raleigh, about a 30 Mind drive away. This campground is far enough away from interstate there is no road noise, yet close to outlets and city for dinning. A+!
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area spans 46,768 acres with 14,000 acres of water surface, located just minutes from Cary, North Carolina. Winter temperatures average 40-50°F, making year-round camping possible at many sites. The surrounding pine forests provide natural sound barriers between campsites, maintaining privacy even during peak seasons.
Hiking trails along shorelines: Jordan Lake State Recreation Area offers several interconnected trails suitable for various skill levels. "Been here twice this summer with friends. Loved being able to just chill in the lake away from it all... it's a lovely spot, quiet except for passing boats, and beautiful," notes Joanna R.
Paddling opportunities: Eno River State Park provides multiple river access points for kayakers and canoeists. "Amazing spots for RVs on the water! There are options for boat or jet ski rentals VERY close," reports Andrew S. about the nearby waters.
Natural waterslides: Raven Rock State Park features unique rock formations along Cape Fear River. "I loved all the trails, mainly the one that goes from the campsite I was on to the river where there is natural waterslide," shares Sarah L. The rocks create natural water features during warmer months.
Spacious, level sites: William B. Umstead State Park features well-maintained campsites. "We camped at C-52. This site was very spacious, easy to back into, and level. This was a HUGE site, lots of space between neighbors," explains Martha S. about Jordan Lake's camping areas.
Waterfront access: Many campsites at Holly Point allow campers to pull boats directly to their sites. "This is such a pretty camp site. Even if you aren't on the water you still have a beautiful view of the lake. The spots are well spread out so you don't feel like you are on top of each other," shares Bailey R.
Low bug populations: Several campgrounds report surprisingly few insects. "Idk how....but we had VERY few bugs at our site the whole week we were there," mentions Andrew S. about summer camping conditions, making outdoor meals more enjoyable.
Gate closure times: Some campgrounds enforce strict entry rules. "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.
No alcohol policy: Jordan Lake State Recreation Area prohibits alcohol. "Rangers can be very ticket-happy if you bring beer so be aware," cautions Joanna R. Fines start at $50 per violation.
Water quality issues: Certain campsites experience poor water conditions. "When we got to the gate, we were told there was no water, but I had a water filter. When I went to the lake to filter water, the water was still brown," reports Myron C. Bringing bottled water is recommended.
Kid-friendly beaches: Rolling View offers dedicated swimming areas with shallow entry points. "Great Campsites, nice wooded sites and close to lake access. Great hiking trails and very family friendly. Deer walked right behind our site," shares Wendy M.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play equipment near camping loops. "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," notes amanda L. about B.W. Wells campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Morning and evening hours provide chances to spot local fauna. "Deer walked right behind our site," mentions Wendy M. about her family's experience, making wildlife spotting an educational activity for children.
Electrical options: Most campgrounds offer both 30 and 50 amp service. "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. Each site has water and electric hook-up," explains Paul H.
Level sites: North Carolina State Fairgrounds provides excellent conditions for larger rigs. "This is a very large campground that can accommodate any size RV. They do not allow tents. All sites are gravel, but are quite level. I pulled in, and didn't have to adjust anything," says Sheri K.
Pet-friendly considerations: Most campgrounds welcome pets with standard leash requirements. "Not crowded, nice selection of trails, plenty of fishing on the Cape Fear, woodland creatures abound," mentions dale W., describing the pet-friendly hiking options available at Raven Rock State Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Cary, NC?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Cary, NC is Poplar Point Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area with a 4.5-star rating from 53 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Cary, NC?
TheDyrt.com has all 53 dog-friendly camping locations near Cary, NC, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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