Jordan Lake and Falls Lake state recreation areas provide most camping spots near Morrisville, North Carolina. Located within forested terrain at elevations between 250-350 feet, these areas experience temperature drops of 15-20 degrees at night compared to daytime highs. Many campgrounds remain busy year-round due to their proximity to the Raleigh-Durham metropolitan area, with weekends frequently reaching full capacity.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: The Mountains to Sea Trail connects with Falls Lake campgrounds and offers extensive hiking opportunities. "We camped out the first night the campground was open for the season. They were performing controlled burns but nothing bothered us... Bathhouses were super clean. And we were a short walk to the lake to fish and hang out near the water," notes a visitor at Holly Point.
Fishing year-round: Multiple species are available in the lakes surrounding Morrisville. "If you're an angler, Lake Jordan is very well known for its large mouthed bass as well as black croppie and there's also yellow and white perch as well as a few different variety of catfish," reports a camper at New Hope Overlook Primitive Campground.
Paddling opportunities: Both lakes offer kayak and canoe access points. "We enjoyed this campsite. It was clean, quiet and very close to the boat ramp! We had a great time and will definitely be back!" shares a visitor to Crosswinds Campground.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Several campgrounds offer direct water access for boats and swimming. "There are options for boat or jet ski rentals VERY close. For those that care about working on laptop or streaming TV while camping, our cellphone hotspots worked great. We got anywhere from 30-55mbps with our Verizon cell coverage," notes a visitor to Poplar Point Campground.
Well-maintained facilities: Most campgrounds feature reliable bathhouses and facilities. "I have been at this camp ground for nearly two weeks. Every Ranger and employee I've interacted with has been amazingly professional and nice. The facilities are kept in pristine shape regarding cleanliness and upkeep," shares a camper at Holly Point.
Convenient urban proximity: Campsites offer natural settings while remaining close to urban amenities. "We stayed at Jordan Lake Campground. It had nice hiking trails. The lake is pretty big. Exploring on our kayaks was a lot of fun. Our tent site was by the water and included water and electric. We will return," explains a visitor at Poplar Point.
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Different campgrounds operate on distinct schedules. "We camped at C-52. This site was very spacious, easy to back into, and level. This was a HUGE site, lots of space between neighbors. We love camping with lots of trees and nature. Great campground for biking," mentions a camper at Poplar Point.
Aircraft noise: The proximity to RDU airport means occasional overhead flights. "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 a visitor at Holly Point.
Reservation requirements: Most sites require advance booking, especially for peak periods. "This campground is right on a lake allowing for drive in campground with a body of water to swim, kayak, and enjoy only 100 yards away. Showers, bathrooms, and running drinking water is nearby," notes a visitor at William B. Umstead State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature play areas near the campsites. "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 a visitor at B.W. Wells Campground.
Beach swimming areas: Dedicated swimming beaches offer safer water access. "Crosswinds has a nice sand beach on the lake and a boat launch as well. Some of the sites offer a tie-off of your boat adjacent to your campsite. The camping sites are spacious and most are level," notes a camper at Crosswinds Campground.
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs and nature activities are available seasonally. "We loved the educational experiences at this park. Very knowledgeable and clean," shares a visitor at Eno River State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Most campgrounds have generally level sites but variations exist. "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. Each has a nice fire pit/grill and picnic table. Dump stations are not far from any of the circles," explains an RVer at Poplar Point.
Distance between sites: Space varies significantly between campgrounds. "Like the way the campsites take advantage of the rolling terrain. Campsites are roomy. Lots of shade. We had a substantial deluge while there, and the water drained just fine. Nice shower facilities," notes a visitor at Poplar Point.
Limited full hookups: While water and electric are common, sewer hookups are less available. "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 a visitor at Crosswinds Campground.
