Falls Lake State Recreation Area and surrounding campgrounds offer extensive trail systems and water activities for visitors near Stem, North Carolina. With elevations ranging from 250 to 350 feet above sea level, the region maintains moderate temperatures year-round with summer highs averaging in the 80s and winter lows in the 30s. Tent sites, RV hookups, and yurt camping options around Stem provide access to multiple recreation areas across over 50,000 acres of protected woodland and shoreline.
What to do
Hiking the Mountains to Sea Trail: The trail passes through Eno River State Park, offering moderate difficulty hikes along riverbanks. "We love hiking here with the family and friends with plenty of beautiful family and pet friendly trails," notes Timothy A. For a more adventurous experience, the Cox Mountain Trail offers a challenging elevation gain.
Stargazing opportunities: Staunton River State Park is designated as an International Dark Sky Park, located within driving distance from Stem. "If you love stargazing this is the park for you. The park offers rentals of telescopes too," shares Bridget H. The best viewing occurs on clear nights away from the light pollution of urban centers.
Paddling and water activities: Multiple boat launches provide direct lake access at Kimball Point Campground. "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," says Andy K. Kayaking, canoeing, and fishing are permitted throughout the year with appropriate licenses.
What campers like
Spacious, well-designed sites: Many campers appreciate the thoughtful layout at Bullocksville Park. "The grounds themselves are laid out superbly, from 3-4 independent campground sites with blended options for both RV's and real campers who use tents," according to Stuart K. Sites range from waterfront to wooded, with some offering greater privacy than others.
Clean facilities: Bathhouses and shower facilities receive positive comments across multiple campgrounds. At B.W. Wells Campground, campers note the well-maintained facilities. "Bathroom facilities with hot showers located near every loop. Swimming areas at certain places around the lake," reports J.D., who stayed with a shuttle bus.
Family-friendly atmosphere: Parents appreciate the numerous recreational options for children. "We loved the educational experiences at this park. Very knowledgeable and clean," explains Elizabeth V. about Eno River State Park. Many campgrounds feature playgrounds, beach areas, and scheduled ranger-led programs during peak seasons.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Securing campsites requires advance planning, especially for popular waterfront locations. "Only negative it's hard to book a space. You need to book it EXACTLY 6 months out, call at 08:00 in morning," advises Steven D. about Kimball Point Campground.
Site-specific challenges: Not all sites accommodate every camping setup. "Be warned that the sites vary pretty widely in size and grade. 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," cautions Michael P.
Seasonal considerations: Rolling View — Falls Lake offers year-round access, while other campgrounds have limited seasons. "The bathhouse wasn't quite warm enough for showers in November temps, when we tented. January was just as cold, but we rented a camper," reports Becqui M., highlighting the importance of seasonal preparation.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water access: Seek out campgrounds with designated swimming areas. "The lake is beautiful and great for kids. We spent the evening watching the sunset on the lake," shares Elizabeth V. about her experience at Rolling View. Beaches with gradual entry points work best for younger children.
Educational programs: Take advantage of ranger-led activities at B.W. Wells Campground. "We loved the educational experiences at this park. Very knowledgeable and clean," notes a satisfied camper. Programs typically run on weekends during peak season and cover topics from local wildlife to astronomy.
Playground proximity: When selecting a site with children, consider proximity to playgrounds. "Great 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," mentions Amanda L. about her family's experience at Kimball Point.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: Pay attention to utilities placement when booking. "Many sites are waterfront or close to it. Sites are spaced out comfortably with gravel sites and the standard fire pit/grill, table and light hook," reports Michael P., though he cautions that "sites vary pretty widely in size and grade."
Level sites: Look for campgrounds with paved or well-maintained gravel sites. "Starting at $30/night for a camping lot. I came here with a 25 foot shuttle bus. There are people here with deluxe buses," notes J.D. about B.W. Wells, indicating the range of vehicles accommodated.
Seasonal limitations: During winter months, be aware of facility limitations. "This park is amazing. The majority of spots are water front or close to it," says Michael P., though waterfront spots may have limited accessibility during colder months when water systems are winterized.
