Jordan Lake State Recreation Area's Crosswinds Campground features spacious wooded sites for families visiting Fuquay-Varina, situated 30 miles west of Raleigh. At an elevation of 220 feet, the area offers a mix of Piedmont forest and lakeside recreation. The campground road network connects multiple camping loops with sites providing various levels of privacy and lake access.
What to do
Hiking trails through wooded terrain: Jordan Lake State Recreation Area offers miles of hiking paths winding through mature forest. "Great hiking trails and very family friendly. Deer walked right behind our site," notes Wendy M. about Crosswinds Campground.
Kayaking and boating: Moccasin Branch Campground provides access to the Cape Fear River. "There are quite a few different campsites to choose from. The Canoe camp site is for the person brave enough to challenge the mighty Cape Fear River," says Cameron D.
Fishing opportunities: Several lakes and rivers allow for productive fishing. "We always catch a ton of fish!! Bath houses are always clean and the park is in a convenient location," mentions Dana M. about Rolling View at Falls Lake.
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Moonshine Creek Campground offers sites along flowing water. "This is an excellent campground! It's really woodsy and the creek is fabulous. Nice laundry facilities. Especially nice are the tent sites. They seem to have some of the most scenic spots," writes Rebecca.
Military-friendly options: Smith Lake Army RV Park provides exclusive camping for Department of Defense members. "Campground is off the beaten path but we thoroughly enjoyed our visit. We loved the sounds of freedom and enjoyed seeing our service members practicing flight maneuvers," shares Big Sarge and Dee C.
Natural swimming areas: Several parks offer water recreation beyond standard pools. "Located just on the lake and close enough to pull your boat up to the shore. Beach is nice and the sites are spacious," mentions Cindy S. about Jordan Lake.
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Rolling View Campground at Falls Lake stays open year-round but weather affects comfort. "The bathhouse wasn't quite warm enough for showers in November temps, when we tented. January was just as cold, but we rented a camper," explains Becqui M.
Gate closure hours: Some parks restrict late access. "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 Jordan Lake.
Varied shower facilities: Bathhouse conditions differ between parks. "The bathhouse for this area has two toilets and two showers. Each is completely private. There are outlets and sinks in all four," notes Rebecca about Moonshine Creek's facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Educational programs: Eno River State Park offers learning opportunities. "We loved the educational experiences at this park. Very knowledgeable and clean," explains Elizabeth V.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas. "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," shares amanda L. at B.W. Wells Campground.
Varied terrain for different abilities: Trail networks accommodate different skill levels. "The trails take you into rolling hills and beside the Eno River, which is great for paddling a canoe or kayak. The most difficult trail (that I remember) is the Cox Mountain Trail. It is at least moderate," advises Myron C.
Tips from RVers
Full hook-up availability: Fayetteville RV Resort & Cottages provides complete services. "All sites seem to be gravel pads, nice, level, average length and width. Full hook-up's. I would guess half of the sites are pull though. They have sites that can handle long rigs," reports Steve K.
Site dimensions: Some parks better accommodate larger vehicles. "This park has a wonderful creek running through the middle of it and most short-term sites back up to it. The campground road is sort of narrow and the sites can be a little tight, making it awkward to back in if you have a large TV and full-size camper," explains Ruth P. about Moonshine Creek.
Yurt camping options: For those seeking yurt camping near Fuquay-Varina, North Carolina, several parks offer these structures. "Each site has water and electric hook-up. Sewer however is a dump station. The sites are big with a picnic table, fire pit and lantern hook," notes Paul H. about site amenities at Crosswinds.
