Kerr Lake State Recreation Area features seven access areas around the 50,000-acre reservoir, with campsites situated at various elevations between 300-320 feet. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline access and beach areas. Summer temperatures average 85-90°F with high humidity, while spring and fall offer more moderate conditions in the 65-75°F range.
What to do
Water activities: Try kayaking at Occoneechee State Park Campground where the clear waters of Buggs Island Lake (Kerr Reservoir) create ideal conditions. "We paddled around Bugg's Lake. Used the boat launch near the office - nice place to put in," notes one visitor who enjoyed watching wildlife during their paddling adventure.
Hiking options: Explore plantation history on the trails around Occoneechee State Park. "We hiked the Plantation Trail, a large historical site that was once a homestead. Mellow, family-friendly walk with a cemetery, historical markers, and an old chimney," reports a camper who noted the "gigantic boxwoods (hundreds of years old)" and "wild daffodils growing in the woods."
Mini-golf and recreation: Visit Lake Gaston RV and Camping Resort for additional entertainment options beyond water activities. "It contains putt putt, pool, store, 2 beaches, dock, fishing areas, playground, and tons of shade," writes a camper who considered it their favorite camping destination.
What campers like
Lake views: Waterfront sites at Kimball Point Campground offer direct access to clear waters. "We camped lake side at Kimball Point on Kerr Lake. Nice site and views, very quiet great for relaxing fishing and watching the stars at night," reports one visitor who enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere.
Clean facilities: Restroom maintenance receives consistently positive feedback across Kerr Lake recreation areas. "Bathrooms: 5/5 clean & air-conditioning in all of them," notes a camper who appreciated comfortable facilities despite finding some tent sites challenging.
Site spacing: Generous campsites at B.W. Wells Campground near Wake Forest provide privacy. "Very large sites, well shaded, paved and all the hook ups," writes a visitor, though they note that "None of the sites are located right on the lake. You either walk the trails or drive down."
What you should know
Reservation challenges: Book early for premium sites at Kerr Lake, especially during summer. "Need to book it EXACTLY 6 months out, call at 08:00 in morning," advises a Kimball Point camper who describes it as "the BEST" despite the difficulty securing reservations.
Site conditions: Check for level grounds before selecting a spot, particularly for RVs. "Not all sites are flat and some are very hard to drive into," notes a visitor to Bullocksville Campground, adding that "many have very nice lake views, and some are totally private!"
Seasonal considerations: Avoid peak summer crowds by camping in spring or fall. "We camped here midweek in the summer. Very happy I drove around first before reserving a site," shares a camper who found the extra reconnaissance helpful for finding suitable spots.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Find kid-friendly campgrounds with recreational facilities near campsites. "This park is amazing. The kids loved this place, we stayed in site 77. Basically 100ft to the water," writes a parent who appreciated the proximity to swimming areas at Kimball Point.
Swimming areas: Use designated beach zones for safer water play. "Roped off area for swimming with a great little sandy beach area next to a playground and toilets," notes a visitor to B.W. Wells Campground who found the setup convenient for families.
Educational opportunities: Combine recreation with learning at parks featuring historical sites. "The Visitor center is nice with some good souvenirs for purchase and history section," explains a camper who appreciated the educational components available alongside outdoor activities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup logistics: Check water access details before arrival, as not all sites have individual connections. "My only gripe is that not every site has its own water. I had run 60ft water hose to the next site over," explains an RV owner at Kimball Point who otherwise rated the experience highly.
Specialized camping options: Consider glamping near Hollister, North Carolina at Rolling View Campground for upscale amenities with nature access. "Sites are large, as most are at Falls Lake, convenient access to water to put the kayak or canoe in straight from your site (check map first)," advises a camper who enjoyed both water activities and hiking options.
Size limitations: Research site dimensions carefully before booking. "We have a 32' travel trailer that fit in spot 65 with no problem but there were many more that we could not fit in because of the steep grades," notes a visitor who found site variations significant enough to impact larger vehicles.
