Best Campgrounds near Rolesville, NC

Camping areas near Rolesville, North Carolina include several state recreation sites within a short drive of the city. Falls Lake State Recreation Area, situated just northwest of Rolesville, offers multiple developed campgrounds including Holly Point, Rolling View, Shinleaf, and B.W. Wells, with options for tent camping, RV sites, and some cabins. Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, located southwest of Rolesville, provides additional mixed-use campgrounds through its Crosswinds, Poplar Point, and Parkers Creek areas, accommodating both tent and RV campers with varying levels of amenities.

Most developed campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, with many sites closed during winter months. Several Falls Lake campgrounds operate from March 15 to October 31, while others like Rolling View remain open year-round. A camper noted, "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 only nature can offer, then make your way here to Holly Point." Weather considerations include potential lake flooding after heavy rains, with one visitor reporting they "had to move my tent further away from the waters edge to avoid being flooded out." Advance reservations are recommended for weekend visits, particularly for lakefront sites.

Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers in the Rolesville area. Falls Lake and Jordan Lake provide numerous lakefront sites that receive consistently high ratings. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, campers particularly value the lakeside settings, with one visitor describing Holly Point as having "direct access to a fantastic lakeside experience, complete with boat launches." Wildlife viewing opportunities include bald eagle sightings at Jordan Lake. While state park campgrounds prohibit alcohol, most permit pets and fires. Bathhouse quality varies across facilities, with some campers noting cleanliness issues at certain locations. Campers seeking more primitive experiences can find dispersed camping at Butner Lake WMA north of Rolesville, which offers free sites with minimal amenities but requires self-sufficiency and adherence to wildlife management area regulations.

Best Camping Sites Near Rolesville, North Carolina (80)

    1. Holly Point — Falls Lake State Recreation Area

    36 Reviews
    Creedmoor, NC
    12 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. Rolling View — Falls Lake State Recreation Area

    31 Reviews
    Creedmoor, NC
    15 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."

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

    10 Reviews
    Wake Forest, NC
    10 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."

    "None of the sites are located right on the lake. You either walk the trails or drive down."

    4. William B. Umstead State Park Campground

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

    $27 / night

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

    "Lots of great paths to walk."

    5. North Carolina State Fairgrounds

    19 Reviews
    Raleigh, NC
    17 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."

    6. Shinleaf — Falls Lake State Recreation Area

    6 Reviews
    Wake Forest, NC
    11 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."

    7. Oasis

    1 Review
    Wake Forest, NC
    11 miles
    +1 (919) 820-7811

    $50 - $75 / night

    "The Oasis is a new campsite on the Dyrt for those looking to explore the area but stay close to civilization and other Conveniences.  Check them out and leave a review on the Dyrt!"

    8. Poplar Point Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

    51 Reviews
    New Hill, NC
    34 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."

    9. Butner lake WMA

    10 Reviews
    Stem, NC
    22 miles
    Website

    "And whatever it is running around in the woods."

    10. Crosswinds Campground — Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

    30 Reviews
    New Hill, NC
    32 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. "

    "This is a pretty nice campground, similar to other state parks in North Carolina. The sites are spacious, we stayed at a double site that allowed up to 4 cars."

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Recent Reviews near Rolesville, NC

538 Reviews of 80 Rolesville Campgrounds


  • 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.

  • S
    Aug. 14, 2025

    Hibernia Campground — Kerr Lake State Recreation Area

    One of our favorite places!

    Hibernia, on Kerr lake is a wonderful campground with plenty of easy access to the lake. We chose site 77 because it was in full shade with nice lake views. There's a cove with a sandy beach and clear water just steps away. Our kids enjoyed hours of time swimming and floating on rafts. Super clean restrooms and showers are just 2 minutes from our site.

    Note: Site 77 required 75 feet of hose to reach water nozzle. Website said 35' so glad we were prepared.

  • Gregg P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 19, 2025

    Holly Point — Falls Lake State Recreation Area

    Working in town

    I really enjoyed this site. While the approach was a bit steep the pad was level. Power and water at site dump station around the corner. Bathrooms and showers were impressively clean. Not full of spiders and cobwebs like most parks. High canopy and dense woods makes the park very quiet and dark at night bring plenty of light.

  • Michelle B.
    May. 17, 2025

    Enfield - Rocky Mount KOA

    A great getaway

    This is a great spot to stop, I knew nothing about it ahead of time I picked it as a midway point between destinations. I stayed in one of the cabins on site and it was simple, but comfortable. There was one bed (either a queen or maybe a full) and a roll-away underneath, table with four chairs, mini refrigerator, Keurig, window AC unit and ceiling fan/light. There was also a porch bench, picnic table and a fire pit.

    I arrived after hours but checking in was a breeze and all paperwork was very clear.

    Bathrooms are dated, but well maintained and clean.

    I have the same cabin booked for my return trip and am really looking forward to coming back!

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 13, 2025

    North Carolina State Fairgrounds

    Large & Level

    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. 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. It is about a quarter mile from the main fairgrounds.


Guide to Rolesville

Camping sites near Rolesville, North Carolina provide diverse options for outdoor recreation along the shores of Falls Lake and Jordan Lake. These reservoirs offer varied camping experiences at elevations ranging from 250 to 350 feet above sea level, with both shaded woodland sites and open waterfront spots. During summer months, average temperatures reach the high 80s with moderate humidity, while spring and fall provide milder camping conditions in the 60-70°F range.

What to do

Kayaking and canoeing access: Shinleaf Campground at Falls Lake features its own dedicated kayak/canoe launch on the eastern side of the property. A camper noted, "If you like to fish, there's tons of different varieties here to catch, including: walleye, crappie, white bass, large- and small-mouth bass, blue gill, striped bass as well as catfish."

Hiking trail exploration: Rolling View connects to several extensive trail networks, including the Mountains to Sea Trail. One visitor shared, "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 trails wind through pine and hardwood forest with moderate elevation changes.

Fishing from campsites: Some waterfront sites at B.W. Wells Campground allow fishing directly from your campsite. A camper explained, "There was a lake nearby with an open sky where you could see hundreds of stars at night." Bass fishing is particularly popular in early morning and evening hours.

What campers like

Spacious, shaded sites: Many campers appreciate the room to spread out at Poplar Point Campground, where "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."

Clean facilities: Bathroom cleanliness varies across campgrounds, but Rolling View regularly receives positive reviews: "Bath houses are always clean and the park is in a convenient location. We've been several times." This contrasts with experiences at other nearby campgrounds.

Proximity to urban amenities: Despite feeling secluded, camping near Rolesville provides convenient access to services. At Crosswinds Campground, a camper noted, "We love camping at Lake Jordan, unfortunately we've usually camped there while I was having surgery at Duke. However we have been there at other times too." Most campgrounds are within 20-30 minutes of grocery stores and restaurants.

What you should know

Seasonal flooding concerns: Heavy rains can affect camping conditions at many lakefront sites. At Crosswinds Campground, a camper warned, "Mud hole, the site we had was under water after a light rain and didn't dry." Select slightly elevated sites when possible, especially during spring months.

Gate closure times: Several campgrounds restrict after-hours entry. One camper at Crosswinds noted, "They lock the gate after a certain hour. If you need something or arrive after hours you are out of luck." Check specific entrance policies when making reservations.

Aircraft noise: Due to proximity to Raleigh-Durham International Airport, airplane noise affects some campgrounds. At Holly Point, one camper advised, "The only thing you will contend with is occasional air traffic noise from RDU. If you're sensitive consider bringing earplugs for your comfort."

Free dispersed camping options: Butner Lake WMA provides no-cost camping but has strict seasonal limitations. A reviewer clarified, "Only open Sept 1 to Feb 28th and March 31 to May 14." Sites are primitive with no facilities beyond fire rings.

Tips for camping with families

Beach access recommendations: Jordan Lake campgrounds offer swimming areas with amenities for children. A camper at Poplar Point described, "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."

Playground proximity: Select sites near recreational facilities when camping with children. At B.W. Wells, a visitor mentioned, "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."

Family-friendly loops: Holly Point has specific areas better suited for families with young children. One camper advised, "Very Family-friendly. It's best if you can get a site near the beach if you have kids Otherwise you'll end up driving them back-and-forth. lots of sites."

Tips from RVers

Leveling requirements: RV sites at North Carolina State Fairgrounds require minimal adjustment. A camper reported, "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."

Full hookup limitations: While several campgrounds offer water and electric hookups, sewer connections at the site are less common. A camper at Jordan Lake mentioned, "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."

Convenience for medical visits: Campgrounds near Rolesville provide practical bases for those needing medical care in the Triangle. One RVer shared, "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, the camp sites are beautiful and clean."

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Rolesville, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, Rolesville, NC offers a wide range of camping options, with 80 campgrounds and RV parks near Rolesville, NC and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Rolesville, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Rolesville, 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 Rolesville, NC?

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

What parks are near Rolesville, NC?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 6 parks near Rolesville, NC that allow camping, notably B. Everett Jordan Lake and John H. Kerr Dam and Reservoir.