Jordan Lake State Recreation Area provides the closest developed camping options to Moncure, North Carolina, situated within a 20-minute drive. The campground sits among mixed pine and hardwood forests at approximately 220 feet elevation with moderate humidity levels typical of North Carolina's central region. Seasonal temperatures range from winter lows around 30°F to summer highs approaching 90°F, creating distinct camping conditions throughout the year.
What to do
Waterfront activities at Jordan Lake: Crosswinds Campground offers direct lake access with multiple water-based recreation options. "Great Campsites, nice wooded sites and close to lake access. Great hiking trails and very family friendly. Deer walked right behind our site. Boat ramp in campground. Swim area and playground," notes Wendy M. from Crosswinds Campground.
Equestrian trail riding: Riders seeking horse-friendly trails can access multiple networks within 45 minutes of Moncure. Falls Lake State Recreation Area provides bridle paths through forested terrain. "We absolutely love this area! 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," shares Bran P. from B.W. Wells Campground.
Disc golf courses: Cedarock Park offers two complete disc golf courses totaling 36 holes approximately 45 minutes from Moncure. "The park is also home to 6 miles of hiking trails and 6 miles of equestrian trails. There are two fantastic disc golf courses (I personally enjoy the Wellspring course)," reports Kelsey L. from Cedarock Park.
What campers like
Lake view campsites: Many campers appreciate waterfront positioning at several campgrounds near Moncure. "Some sites are on the lake and close enough to pull your boat up to the shore. The bathhouse has a lot to be desired. Beach is nice and the sites are spacious. I love this campground," mentions Cindy S. about Crosswinds Campground.
Private wooded sites: Shaded, secluded campsites create natural barriers between neighboring campers. "Located on a semi rural area, the sites are very wooded and quiet. There was a lake nearby with an open sky where you could see hundreds of stars at night. Pets are allowed and the bathrooms are in good shape," notes Kristen W. from Falls Lake State Recreation Area.
Historical features: Some campgrounds incorporate educational components alongside natural attractions. "The park is almost 500 acres in size and offers... A historical farm restored to the late 1800s time period," describes Kelsey L. about Cedarock Park.
What you should know
Gate closure timing: Several campgrounds implement nightly gate closures that restrict entry and exit. "This campground is pretty great except for two things. there is no septic on your site, and 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 Crosswinds Campground.
Road noise concerns: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds despite natural settings. "The only downside is the road noise at night - it was very loud. Next time we will bring something to help quiet the noise," suggests Tara T. about Cedarock Park.
Limited equestrian facilities: While horse-friendly camping exists near Moncure, designated equestrian amenities vary. "This is a very easy park to find. Decent amount of parking, but it is a highly trafficked area. I have not yet camped here, but I've hiked on the trails. There are multiple trails, for varying skill level," explains Samantha P. from William B. Umstead State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas 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. about B.W. Wells Campground.
Swimming beaches: Designated swimming areas provide safer water recreation for children. "Close to the beach where we sat for hours. Clean bathrooms. Spacious sites. Plenty of privacy," notes Angela M. about Crosswinds Campground.
Group camping options: Families traveling together can utilize group sites at certain locations. "I camped here with a large group and we fit in one campground nicely. Some people slept in tents but a lot strung Eno hammocks between the Carolina Pines. Our campground lined the lake so just through the trees, we were able to go for a quick dip or sit and watch the water," describes Sarah M. from Falls Lake.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: RVers seeking complete services have limited options within 30 minutes of Moncure. "This was our very first full-time RV park. We loved being in the park and it easily accommodated our 39ft. Class A. Back-in site but with plenty of room to do so. Each site has water and electric hook-up. Sewer however is a dump station," explains Paul H. from Crosswinds Campground.
Site leveling requirements: RV campers should prepare for varying site conditions. "Our site was level. Pets are welcome, but as everywhere, dogs must be on a leash (not more than 6' long). If you put the address into your GPS, it will take you to the main fairgrounds. You need to put NC state fairgrounds CAMPGROUND," advises Sheri K. from North Carolina State Fairgrounds.
Tree clearance considerations: Overhead branches can impact larger rigs at some sites. "The campground is very cramped and the owner was unwilling to work with me after I asked not to park my fifth wheel under a hickory tree that was rubbing the top of my recently recoated roof," cautions Nina B. from Cane Creek Campground and RV Park.
