Falls Lake State Recreation Area offers several pet-friendly campgrounds near Garner, North Carolina, situated in the eastern Piedmont region at an elevation range of 250-350 feet. Most campsites in the area feature hardwood forest cover that provides natural shade during summer months when average temperatures range from 75-90°F. Winter camping options remain available at select locations with temperatures typically between 30-50°F from December through February.
What to do
Hiking trails beyond Umstead Park: Moccasin Branch Campground at Raven Rock State Park offers several unique hiking options. "Great place to hike, fish, and camp with the family," notes Charles W. The Cape Fear River adds water recreation options as "There are some great hikes on the loop trails that run along the Cape Fear River. Raven Rock itself is pretty cool and worth the hike," according to Scott P.
Fishing opportunities: Rolling View Campground provides excellent fishing access. "We always catch a ton of fish!! Bath houses are always clean and the park is in a convenient location. We've been several times," says Dana M. The campground includes a fishing pier and water access points where anglers regularly catch bass, crappie and catfish.
Swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature designated swimming zones. "Close to the beach where we sat for hours. Clean bathrooms. Spacious sites. Plenty of privacy," notes Angela M. about Crosswinds Campground. Swimming areas typically open from late May through early September and include roped-off sections for safety.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Poplar Point Campground at Jordan Lake offers well-separated campsites. "Like the way the campsites take advantage of the rolling terrain. Campsites are roomy. Lots of shade," reports Stuart O. The campground features over 500 sites with many positioned along the shoreline.
Wildlife viewing: Birdwatchers find multiple species at local campgrounds. "Lots of Bird Watching. Connect with the Mountains to Sea trail too for a great hike!" says Bran P. about Rolling View Campground. Visitors regularly spot bald eagles, herons, osprey and various songbirds throughout the recreation areas.
Lake views and sunsets: The western-facing shorelines offer spectacular evening views. "Sitting by a fire watching the sunset across the lake. The dog and I decided to go camping last minute and what's easier than driving up, parking and sitting up a tent right on the water," shares Jesse B. about camping at Jordan Lake.
What you should know
Site reservations and availability: Most state park campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak season. "Park rangers are friendly, campsites aren't on top of each other and the restrooms and showers are clean. We love seeing the wildlife," notes Sharon M. about Rolling View Campground.
Campground facilities vary significantly: North Carolina State Fairgrounds offers different amenities than state parks. "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," reports Sheri K.
Seasonal considerations: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. "We've camped here 2 or 3 times now and we can't get enough of this park. The bathhouse wasn't quite warm enough for showers in November temps, when we tented," explains Becqui M. about Falls Lake facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: B.W. Wells Campground offers recreation facilities for children. "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. Most family-oriented campgrounds include playground equipment within walking distance of campsites.
Beach areas for kids: Jordan Lake campgrounds feature sandy shores suitable for children. "Near beach, double sites. Loved having a double site with my parents. Close to the beach where we sat for hours," reports Angela M. about Crosswinds Campground.
Group camping options: William B. Umstead State Park offers designated group sites. "I have stayed in the group camping sites many times and loved it. There are historic cabins with cots to sleep on. There is electricity in the cabins," notes Erica F.
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: Coopers RV Park provides full utilities for extended stays. "Coopers is a clean well maintained park between Clayton and Garner. Just minutes from downtown Raleigh. All of their sites have both 30 and 50 amp service. They all also have both water and sewer," reports Donald R.
RV size limitations: Site dimensions vary between campgrounds. "This campground is adjacent to the NC State Fairgrounds. Sites are spacious and full hook ups. Gravel roadways and grass/gravel sites. Most sites appear to be fairly level; we did have to use blocks on one side," explains Joy B. about North Carolina State Fairgrounds.
Length-of-stay options: Many RV parks near Garner offer both short and long-term stays. "This is a decent place but it is for sure mostly for more permanent people. I would not recommend to come here unless you're planning to stay for a minimum of 2 to 3 months," advises M.B. about Coopers RV Park.
