Campgrounds near Fuquay-Varina offer varying terrain with the region situated between North Carolina's Piedmont and Coastal Plain at elevations around 300-400 feet. Sites typically receive 45-50 inches of rainfall annually with mild winters that rarely drop below freezing, making year-round camping feasible. Local campgrounds provide access to Jordan Lake's 14,000 acres of water and 180+ miles of shoreline.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Jordan Dam RV Park, campers enjoy the on-site fishing pond. "There is pond for fishing," notes Michael R., who stayed for a year while his house was being built. The park sits conveniently close to the Jordan Dam boat launch for larger fishing excursions.
Hiking trails: Near the town of Moncure, several campgrounds provide access to natural trails. "There's a hefty amount of amenities to pick and choose from... and even a small fish pond," mentions a visitor to Jordan Dam RV Park. At Smith Lake Army RV Park, "Bike and Hiking trails all through out the site. Fishing as well - with respective fishing license."
Water recreation: Water activities abound at nearby lakes. Smith Lake Army RV Park offers "lake access" where "You can rent kayaks and paddle boats right on the water front, but the beach is only open on Weekends until Labor Day." For those wanting white sandy beaches, Tucker Lake near Four Oaks Lodging & RV Resort features "white sandy beaches, paddle boats, kayaks and canoes for rent, rope swings, 165 foot waterslide for the kids to jump into the water."
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many RV parks in the region offer generously sized camping spots. At Jones Station RV Park, sites are "huge with large space between...everything was immaculate," with "extra wide and extra long pull thru site" and "sites nicely spaced apart similar to state parks."
Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness ranks high on camper priorities. One camper noted that Fayetteville RV Resort & Cottages has "Two newly remodeled bathhouses and laundry rooms. Staff keeps them clean though out the day, we never had an issue with dirty or un-stocked bathrooms." Another remarked that Jones Station RV Park has "very clean toilet/shower building" that requires an "entry combo" for access.
Military proximity: For those with military connections, Smith Lake Army RV Park offers "concrete pads are level and sites are spacious with a picnic table and fire pit. Close to Ft. Bragg entrance, Exchange, and Commissary." The park serves as "Recreation Heaven" with "lots of recreational activities with lake access" and "staff was very friendly."
What you should know
Military installation noise: Staying near military bases means accepting noise. Smith Lake Army RV Park campers should "be prepared for loud aircraft noise as well as other military installation noise" as the park is "next to airfield, you might get Helicopter nosies from time to time." Some embrace this aspect: "We loved the sounds of freedom and enjoyed seeing our service members practicing flight maneuvers."
Extended stay options: Many parks accommodate longer visits. At Jordan Dam RV Park, one camper "stayed at Jordan Dam RV Park for a year while waiting for our house to be built." Similarly, at Fayetteville RV Resort, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the staff "welcomed us with open arms and put us under a long term clause so we couldn't get thrown out if they shut everything down. 600 a month is more than reasonable for the area."
Service restrictions: Some parks have limitations. Jones Station RV Park has received criticism regarding service animals: "Was told on the phone a registered service dog with papers is not allowed at the campground due to its breed. Not in compliance with ADA."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: For families with children, pools provide essential recreation. Raleigh Oaks RV Resort & Cottages features multiple aquatic options: "Two pools, one Jacuzzi, 3 Dog parks. Volley ball, playground, putt putt and more." Visitors appreciate that it's "immaculately clean and well maintained park" that is "not the most natural setting (it's more RV than park)."
Weekend activities: Many parks organize weekend events. Fayetteville RV Resort offers scheduled children's activities: "During our stay they had scheduled kid activities and movie night with popcorn" and "Saturday morning they had a Waffle breakfast." The park also features "two pools, hot tub, mini golf, basketball court, horseshoes and playground all included in your price."
Playground options: Multiple parks feature play structures for children. 70 East RV Park is "family and pet friendly" with "spacious lots" in "a great location, nearby anything you need." Raleigh Oaks offers "family type" amenities including "Volley ball, playground, putt putt and more."
Tips from RVers
Level sites: RV campers prioritize level parking spots. At Raleigh Oaks, visitors find "large, mostly level, pull through spots" with "30 or 50 amp and 20 amp" hookups at "each site." The park received praise as "a wonderful, clean, level family type RV resort."
Interstate proximity: Location relative to major highways matters for those traveling through the area. Jones Station RV Park offers "easy access to/from Interstate 40" with nearby conveniences including "Super Walmart 5 miles away along with Dollar Tree, Chick-fil-A, Zaxbys, Arbys, McDonald's and various other restaurants."
Site navigation: Getting large vehicles into spots can be challenging at some locations. At Jordan Dam RV Park, "The site maintenance man, Earl, will direct you into your site, which was a bit tricky in the site we were in." This personalized assistance helps especially for those with larger rigs or limited maneuvering experience.
