Jordan Lake State Recreation Area offers multiple campground options near Bynum, North Carolina with varying amenities for glamping enthusiasts. The 14,000-acre reservoir serves as the centerpiece for these camping areas, with sites available for tents, RVs, and glamping accommodations. The park's location just minutes from the Triangle region provides easy access while maintaining a secluded natural setting surrounded by pine forests and hardwoods.
What to do
Hiking along forested trails: Eno River State Park features several miles of trails that follow the river and wind through woodlands. A visitor shared, "We hike and swim Eno nearly weekly and are so thankful this resource is so close to us! We also backpack into the primitive sites frequently. The trails are always clean."
Fishing in Deep River: Raven Rock State Park provides excellent fishing opportunities along the Cape Fear River. "Spent many nights camping at Raven Rock. There are quite a few different campsites to choose from. You can also swim in the Fish Traps, which is a unique cluster of rocks on the river," notes one camper.
Water activities at Falls Lake: Visitors to B.W. Wells Campground enjoy swimming, kayaking and canoeing. "The lake is great, roped off area for swimming with a great little sandy beach area next to a playground and toilets," mentions one visitor who appreciated the well-maintained facilities.
What campers like
Secluded tent sites: Campers at Eno River State Park praise the primitive camping experience. "The primitive sites are spaced far enough apart that it truly feels like solitude. Piper Creek is our favorite. Flat and easy 1.2 mile hike in along the river," shares a satisfied camper.
Riverside camping spots: Rolling View Campground at Falls Lake offers waterfront sites that campers find particularly appealing. One reviewer noted, "Nice, big sites and plenty of good areas for swimming, hiking, and fishing. We always catch a ton of fish!! Bath houses are always clean and the park is in a convenient location."
Creek-side glamping: Moonshine Creek Campground provides a more refined camping experience with creek-side sites. "This was the prettiest, friendliest, most peaceful campground I've ever stayed. Whether you're a tenter, an RVer, or a cabin dweller, this place is no frills, but extremely comfortable," reports one visitor.
What you should know
Road noise concerns: Some campgrounds like Greensboro KOA experience traffic noise due to proximity to highways. As one reviewer explained, "This campground is located right off I-40, which is very convenient, but the road noise is loud and constant. They did make a bowl of free, disposable ear plugs available in the office, which was a nice gesture."
Bathhouse variations: Facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. At Crosswinds Campground, a camper noted, "The bathhouse has a lot to be desired. Beach is nice and the sites are spacious. I love this campground!"
Seasonal closures: Not all campgrounds remain open year-round. Check ahead when planning glamping near Bynum during off-season months, especially for water access and amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground accessibility: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park offers extensive child-friendly facilities. A family camper shared, "This is a great family campground. They have activities all day for the kids and family. Very spacious with plenty of activities and room for kids."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Families enjoy spotting local fauna at B.W. Wells Campground. One visitor described their experience: "B.W. Wells Campground at Falls Lake felt like stepping into a quiet forest hideaway, where the kids could explore trails, spot eagles over the water, and watch butterflies while we enjoyed campfires under the trees."
Educational programs: Several campgrounds offer ranger-led activities for children. "We loved the educational experiences at this park. Very knowledgeable and clean," noted a visitor to Eno River State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RVers should be prepared with leveling blocks at some campgrounds. At Crosswinds Campground, an RVer shared, "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."
After-hours access: Some campgrounds restrict late entry. One camper at Crosswinds noted, "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. If you need something or arrive after hours you are out of luck."
Double site availability: Larger family groups can request special arrangements. "Loved having a double site with my parents. Close to the beach where we sat for hours. Clean bathrooms. Spacious sites. Plenty of privacy," mentioned a visitor to Crosswinds Campground.
