Best Campgrounds near Knightdale, NC

State parks and recreation areas within a 30-minute drive of Knightdale, North Carolina provide diverse camping experiences centered around water access and forested settings. Falls Lake State Recreation Area offers multiple campgrounds including Holly Point, Rolling View, Shinleaf, and B.W. Wells, all featuring a mix of tent and RV sites with water and electric hookups. Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, located southwest of Knightdale, includes popular campgrounds like Crosswinds and Poplar Point with lakeside camping options. William B. Umstead State Park, situated between Knightdale and Raleigh, provides a more wooded camping experience with tent sites and cabins available from March through December.

Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, with the primary camping season running from mid-March through October or November. Reservations are strongly recommended, particularly for weekend stays during summer months when lakefront sites fill quickly. Cell service is generally reliable throughout the area, with campers reporting good connectivity for remote work. As one visitor noted, "This area is such a short drive from the triangle area of North Carolina, yet this park feels quite remote." Summer temperatures can be quite hot and humid, with many campers preferring spring and fall visits. Winter camping options are limited, though Rolling View at Falls Lake remains open year-round.

Waterfront sites consistently receive the highest ratings from campers, with many highlighting the excellent fishing opportunities. Large-mouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill are common catches in both Falls and Jordan Lakes. Hiking trails connect many campgrounds to the Mountains to Sea Trail, providing additional recreational opportunities. Facilities vary in quality, with some visitors noting inconsistent maintenance of shower facilities. One camper observed, "The sites are spacious, we stayed at a double site that allowed up to 4 cars. The site was level and stayed dry during the heavy rain." Most campgrounds feature boat ramps, swimming areas, and picnic facilities, making them popular for family outings. Weekday visits typically offer a quieter experience with fewer crowds.

Best Camping Sites Near Knightdale, North Carolina (66)

    1. Holly Point — Falls Lake State Recreation Area

    36 Reviews
    Creedmoor, NC
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (984) 867-8000

    $27 - $77 / night

    "If you find yourself in the hustle and bustle of nearby Raleigh and looking to get away from the crowds and pavement in exchange for some nice shaded nature, hiking trails and calm peace & quiet that"

    "The North Carolina State Park campgrounds are typically very nice, and this one is no exception. My site is adjacent to a large, clean, working bathhouse and a 2 minute walk from a swim beach."

    2. North Carolina State Fairgrounds

    19 Reviews
    Raleigh, NC
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 612-6767

    $35 / night

    "Restaurants and downtown Raleigh are within short driving distance. Public bathrooms and showers (cold water) are a 2 minute walk to Horse Complex H6, Barn B Very little tree cover."

    "The actual address is 801 Youth Center Drive. One camping location is up in the woods behind the horse complex. The other is on the actual fairgrounds property along Youth Center Drive."

    3. William B. Umstead State Park Campground

    18 Reviews
    Morrisville, NC
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 571-4170

    $27 / night

    "We've hiked umstead and other local trails almost every week for the past 5 months."

    "Umstead is conveniently located in the heart of Raleigh, NC. It seems to be an outdoor oasis as you can get lost in the woods with the hustle and bustle of the city all around you."

    4. Rolling View — Falls Lake State Recreation Area

    31 Reviews
    Creedmoor, NC
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (984) 867-8000

    $27 - $77 / night

    "Tucked away and nestled off of 98 highway, Rolling View campground is a great, secluded spot."

    "I spent a night in Shinleaf walk in campground in April as part of a backpacking trip along the Falls Lake MST trail, sections 8-12."

    5. B.W. Wells — Falls Lake State Recreation Area

    11 Reviews
    Wake Forest, NC
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (984) 867-8000

    $72 / night

    "There are tons of hiking trails all around and plenty of bike trails too! Conveniently located north of Raleigh, NC and close to many major highways."

    "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"

    6. Coopers RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Clayton, NC
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 359-8060

    7. Poplar Point Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

    52 Reviews
    New Hill, NC
    30 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 362-0586

    $27 - $37 / night

    "Poplar Point Campground could quite possibly be the best campground in all of North Carolina!"

    "Poplar Point is located on the banks of the lake in the Jordan Lake State Recreation Area."

    8. 70 East RV Park

    1 Review
    Garner, NC
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 772-6568

    $825 / night

    "It's in a great location, nearby anything you need. It's family and pet friendly. Neighbors are friendly."

    9. Shinleaf — Falls Lake State Recreation Area

    6 Reviews
    Wake Forest, NC
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (984) 867-8000

    $27 - $72 / night

    "If you find yourself in the hustle and bustle of nearby Raleigh and are looking to get away from the crowds and pavement in exchange for some nice shaded nature, hiking trails and calm, peace& quiet"

    "Falls Lake State Recreation area is an interesting area in that it is made up of a number of non-connecting areas. The camping is at Shinleaf and is walk up only."

    10. Crosswinds Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

    30 Reviews
    New Hill, NC
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (919) 362-0586

    $27 - $77 / night

    "This area is such a short drive from the triangle area of North Carolina, yet this park feels quite remote. Like many state parks, this one excels in the services department. "

    "Located just 30 miles west of Raleigh, Jordan Lake provides 7 different access points throughout this amazing natural preserve. "

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 66 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Knightdale, NC

435 Reviews of 66 Knightdale Campgrounds


  • Chris R.
    Oct. 7, 2025

    Phelps West

    Great Location

    Great spot for boondocking near town. Secluded area. Easy communication with homeowner. Thanks!

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    B.W. Wells — Falls Lake State Recreation Area

    Family Friendly Campground

    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. It’s strictly hike-in and tent-only, so we had to pack light and plan carefully, but the trade-off was true peace and space to connect without the noise of RVs or busy roads. With shaded group sites, fire pits, picnic tables, nearby restrooms, and lake access perfect for paddling or fishing, it offered a rustic yet rewarding experience that was still close enough to Wake Forest for a quick meal or supply run when we needed it.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Phelps West

    Someone's Front Yard

    Pulling into Phelps West in Fuquay-Varina was nothing short of unsettling - it felt less like a campground and more like I had accidentally driven into someone’s front yard. The tiny gravel road led past a mailbox and straight onto what looked like private property, complete with several cars scattered around the house, and when I knocked on the door for guidance, no one answered despite it being the middle of the day. With kids in tow, the whole situation felt awkward and a bit creepy, and I honestly wasn’t comfortable staying; if you’re even considering this spot, definitely call or email ahead because showing up unannounced was not a family-friendly experience.

  • Maria Mercedes M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Poplar Point Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

    Family Friendly Lake Jordon

    Poplar Point Campground at Jordan Lake quickly became one of my family’s favorite spots, offering the perfect mix of nature and convenience just outside Raleigh. With over 500 shaded sites, many right along the shoreline, the kids had room to play while we enjoyed peaceful lake views and easy access to boating, kayaking, and fishing. The campground has plenty of family-friendly touches from playgrounds, picnic tables, fire rings, and boat ramps along with water and electric hookups at most sites, though I learned that some loops have cleaner bathhouses than others. Bald eagles overhead, herons by the water, and fiery sunsets made it feel like we were far from the city, yet Apex and Pittsboro were just a short drive away when we needed a meal or groceries. My tips: aim for a lakefront site in Loops C, F, or G, pack serious bug spray for summer, and plan to catch at least one sunset across the water as it’s the kind of view the kids will remember long after the trip.

  • Donnelle The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Butner lake WMA

    Be Advised!

    All Campers MUST have a fishers/hunters license. Rangers wrote us a warning ticket for not having our own, but we are headed to Walmart to get one for about $30

  • Bailey R.
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Poplar Point Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

    Lake front view

    This is such a pretty camp site. Even if you aren’t on the water you still have a beautiful view of the lake. The spots are well spread out so you don’t feel like you are on top of each other and it’s very kid friendly

  • Stuart K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Jordan Lake Crosswinds

    Big Water, Tall Pines & Gorgeous Lakefront Sunsets

    Nestled along the shores of Jordan Lake, Crosswinds Campground is one of those places that makes one feel like they just scored a million-dollar lakefront spot for the cost of a campsite fee. First impressions? Towering pines everywhere, a breeze rolling off the water and the faint hum of boats out on the lake. It’s a large, well-loved campground that still manages to feel peaceful – provided you’re not parked next to that one guy who thinks 'quiet hours' are just a suggestion.

    The facilities here strike a nice balance between rustic and comfortable. Out of the 182 sites, 134 offer water and electric hookups, making it RV-friendly while still keeping things woodsy. Every site has the basics: picnic table, fire ring, lantern / garbage holder and enough tree cover to keep you from baking like a biscuit in the North Carolina summer sun. Bathhouses are clean and scattered through the loops in just about the right proportion where the loos feel like an overcrowded line to see your favorite band with a dump station on site at each of the campground loops. Roads are well-paved –although you will find that errant pothole just waiting to take out one of your tires, so tread carefully – but a little snug for bigger rigs, so if you drive something the size of a tour bus, maybe don’t test your parallel parking skills here.

    The lake is the true star. With 180 miles of shoreline surrounding a 12,000-acre reservoir, Jordan Lake sprawls wide enough to feel like a small ocean … and Crosswinds puts you right on the edge of it. Beyond the lake itself, Jordan Lake State Recreation Area covers a span of some 46,000 acres of public land, so there’s tons of nature to explore here. Boating, fishing and kayaking are all top-notch, and the eagle-spotting here is so good you’ll feel like you wandered onto a National Geographic special. If you want civilization, the quaint and full-service townships of Cary, Apex and Pittsboro are all close by for groceries, breweries or just a break from your campfire cooking experiments.

    As for the campground itself, there are 3 distinct loops: A, B & C (yes, even your kindergartner can keep these 3 straight!). Here’s a breakdown of each loop, because each one offers up something different and unique – some things good, some things not so much – that may influence where you choose to camp. Here’s a snapshot:

    Loop A (AKA 'Boats & Bobbers'): (1) the only loop that is entirely non-electric, so if powering up your campsite is important, then bring your own source or look to the other loops; (2) closest to the main entrance, so great for quick access, but the only loop if you take a left at the fork (the other 2 loops are right of the fork); (3) nearest the boat launch, so you will experience all of the boat-launching skippers driving westward past your loop from dusk to dawn, which is great if you are thumbing your way to the boat launch, not so great if you prize peace & quiet; (4) an ‘easter egg’ of a hidden trail exists near A21 that will lead you down to the lakeshore to a quiet spot perfect for uncorking that vintage Bordeaux you’ve been looking for the right location and moment to savor; and (5) IMHO the best sites are those that are lake-facing such as 19– 22 and 45– 47.

    Loop B (AKA 'Sand & Swimming'): (1) if Loop A is defined by its proximity to the boat launch, then this loop can be dubbed the Beach Loop as it is the only circuit with an actual beachhead and proper swimming area; (2) while centrally located in between the other 2 loops, this area is definitely considered more tranquil and has a tighter feeling of community; (3) unlike the previous loop, this one has campsites with running electric and water, but there’s a bonus to some of these sites as they are considered duplex campsites, so while a bit more$ ($25 more for non-electric and $40 more for duplexes with electric), you’ll have more space, which is especially important if there’s 2 families looking to camp together; and (4) IMHO the best sites here are those westernmost, lake-facing spots such as 24, 26, 30, 32, 34, 36 and 40.

    Loop C ('Sunsets& Sundowners'): (1) just like the previous loop, here you’ll find all campsites have running water & electric, so no primitive shenanigans to deal with here; (2) of the 3 loops, this is the one located most northernly, most secluded, furthest from the entrance and has no amenities (like a beach or boat launch) that will draw non-camping traffic; (3) the biggest draw of this loop are the arresting views of Lake Jordan, especially at dusk, where you can place your fold-up camping chair in just the right direction, sit back and sip on those sunset-inspired Mai Tais; (4) There’s a small, hidden beach (shhh! don’t tell your fellow campers in Loop B, lest they become disenfranchised!) that you can access near site 32 that will allow for a private swim or late-night evening hang-out staring at the breathtaking moonlit starscape; and (5) IMHO the best sites are (you guessed it) the ones that have the best views of that incandescent sundowner view facing westward, so you’ll want to eye spots 19, 21, 23, 24 – with the absolute pinnacle sites being 24, 26, 30, 32, 34 – as well as those that have even a partial view, including 36, 40 and 42.

    Insider Tips?  Here's a smattering: (1) Plan a swim or paddle near the Ebenezer Church swimming beach, just a short drive from Crosswinds. It’s less crowded than the main day-use areas and offers sandy shoreline, gentle water entry, and shady picnic spots; (2) For paddling, launch in the morning from the camper-only ramp before the motorboats hit the water and turn it into Daytona-on-the-lake; (3) Eat at The Fearrington House Restaurant in Pittsboro if you’re feeling fancy – exotic meats and Oregon Pinot Noirs so smooth they’ll make you forget you slept on a foam mattress last night; (4) Bring bug spray – the mosquitoes here treat Off! like it’s a garnish; and (5) Don’t skip stargazing on a clear night, the Milky Way shows off, and it’s better than cable.

    Happy Camping!

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 20, 2025

    Holly Point — Falls Lake State Recreation Area

    Great campground

    The North Carolina State Park campgrounds are typically very nice, and this one is no exception. My site is adjacent to a large, clean, working bathhouse and a 2 minute walk from a swim beach.

    My cell reception outside the camper is excellent, and of if I had a cell booster it would be adequate for streaming inside the camper. I don’t have one as I depend on Starlink for internet access when traveling. Unfortunately Starlink isn’t going to work in my specific site or in most of the others. This is a wooded campground and all the sites are completely shaded

    My site has water and electric. About half of the available RV sites have water and electric, it there is no sewer. There is a dump station in the campground. Unusual for NC State facilities, there are no trash bins placed around the campground, but there is a large dumpster station co-located with the dump station.

    It’s about a 15-20 minute drive to shopping, but there are several convenience stores a few minutes away.

    The campground is clean and well maintained. It meanders around a very large lake, with several beaches and boat launch areas.


Guide to Knightdale

Camping spots near Knightdale, North Carolina benefit from the region's moderate Piedmont climate with average summer highs of 90°F and winter lows around 30°F. Most campgrounds in the area sit at elevations between 250-350 feet above sea level, creating rolling terrain that drains well after rain. The camping season typically spans March through November, with limited options available during winter months.

What to do

Kayaking and fishing access: Falls Lake State Recreation Area features multiple access points for water recreation. At Shinleaf Campground, visitors can launch directly from the eastern side of the property. "It's in a convenient location, right off of Hwy 98 on New Light Rd... Oh, and bring a fishing rod if you have a fishing license. You can fish from many of the 'leaf' campsite spots," notes Brian G.

Hiking opportunities: The region offers interconnected trail systems through mature forests. William B. Umstead State Park provides extensive trail networks for various skill levels. "We've camped here 2 or 3 times now and we can't get enough of this park. It is huge, covered in hiking trails like Mountains to Sea Trail and Falls Lake Trail. The dogs love it," shares Becqui M.

Swimming beaches: Many campgrounds feature designated swimming areas with sandy beaches. "We had a great weekend camping here with our cub scouts in the Shinleaf group camping area... The area is cool to explore, there are several points on the lake you can easily hike to," says Robert R. about exploring the shoreline.

What campers like

Spacious, level sites: Many campgrounds offer generously sized camping areas with good separation between neighbors. At Holly Point, "Sites are large to accommodate two tents and two vehicles nicely. Bathrooms are what you would expect but clean. Some sites further back (not water side) have trees for hammocking," according to Jessica H.

Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained bathhouses and shower facilities. At Rolling View, "Bathrooms and showers are clean. Sites are large to accommodate two tents and two vehicles nicely," notes a reviewer. Another camper at Rolling View states, "Bathhouses were super clean. And we were a short walk to the lake to fish and hang out near the water."

Good cell service: Remote workers appreciate reliable connectivity at most campgrounds. "Good WiFi, great cellular... Can literally do anything you want from this location," notes LaKevius M. about the State Fairgrounds campground. This allows campers to stay connected while enjoying nature.

What you should know

Seasonal availability: Most campgrounds operate on a limited schedule. "We camped out the first night the campground was open for the season. They were performing controlled burns but nothing bothered us," reports Melinda J. about Holly Point. Always verify opening dates before planning a trip.

Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially waterfront spots. At Poplar Point Campground, "Amazing spots for RVs on the water! There are TONS of spots that are right on the lake yet have plenty of trees for privacy," notes Andrew S. Reserve well in advance for these premium locations.

Airport noise: Due to proximity to RDU International Airport, some campgrounds experience occasional aircraft noise. "The only thing you will contend with is occasional air traffic noise from RDU. If you're sensitive consider bringing earplugs for your comfort," advises Jessica H. about Holly Point.

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At B.W. Wells Campground, "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.

Beach proximity: For families with children, waterfront sites offer convenient water access. At Poplar Point Campground, "This is such a pretty camp site. Even if you aren't on the water you still have a beautiful view of the lake. The spots are well spread out so you don't feel like you are on top of each other and it's very kid friendly," notes Bailey R.

Group camping options: Several campgrounds accommodate larger family gatherings. "We had a great weekend camping here with our cub scouts in the Shinleaf group camping area. We had about 40 people and had plenty of room to spread out over three camping sites," explains Robert R.

Tips from RVers

Full hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer water and electric hookups, with dump stations nearby. At Crosswinds Campground, "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," reports Paul H.

Site leveling considerations: RVers note varying site conditions across campgrounds. "Large park with a hodgepodge of level sites and not so much. Boat ramp, swim beach and a small amphitheater. No water sites with electric," warns John R. about Holly Point.

Accessibility for large rigs: Several campgrounds can accommodate larger RVs. "This is a very large campground that can accommodate any size RV... All sites are gravel, but are quite level. I pulled in, and didn't have to adjust anything," shares Sheri K. about the State Fairgrounds campground.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Knightdale, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, Knightdale, NC offers a wide range of camping options, with 66 campgrounds and RV parks near Knightdale, NC and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Knightdale, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Knightdale, NC is Holly Point — Falls Lake State Recreation Area with a 4.5-star rating from 36 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Knightdale, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Knightdale, NC.