Jordan Lake State Rec Area
00 review280 State Park Rd, Apex, North Carolina, 27523, United States
Jordan Lake State Rec Area
$20.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Campsite fees range from $20 to $35 depending on the type, such as tent or RV sites.
About this campground
Escape to Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, where sprawling campsites nestle among towering trees overlooking one of North Carolina's most beloved lakes. This outdoor paradise beckons with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming, modern facilities including hot showers and clean restrooms, and miles of scenic hiking trails that wind through ancient forests. Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars or parking your RV with a lake view, you'll find the perfect blend of natural beauty and creature comforts.
The campground accommodates various camping styles, including sites for RVs, tents, and group camping.
Historical SignificanceWhile the modern recreation area celebrates outdoor adventure, Jordan Lake holds deeper stories waiting to be discovered by curious campers exploring this cherished North Carolina destination.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of Carolina weather at Jordan Lake, where balmy summer days invite endless water adventures—locals rave about the lake's invitingly warm waters that reach their peak temperature in August, creating perfect swimming conditions. Even winter refuses to be harsh here, with surprisingly mild temperatures that can soar into the comfortable 70s, making year-round camping a delightful possibility for those seeking to escape the crowds and enjoy peaceful off-season serenity.
ElevationThe gently rolling terrain of Jordan Lake provides accessible camping for all skill levels, with sites positioned to capture cooling breezes off the water and stunning sunrise views across the lake's expansive surface.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where ancient hardwood forests meet sparkling waters, creating a sanctuary of shade and tranquility. The majestic trees that embrace each campsite provide natural privacy and blessed relief from summer sun, while the lake itself serves as a spectacular centerpiece—its calm waters reflecting sky and forest, alive with jumping fish and soaring herons. This harmonious blend of woodland and waterscape offers endless opportunities for both adventure and peaceful contemplation.
Geological RegionNestled in North Carolina's picturesque South District, Jordan Lake State Recreation Area showcases the region's stunning marriage of water and woodland. This man-made reservoir has matured into a natural wonderland, where the surrounding forests have reclaimed the shoreline, creating diverse ecosystems that support abundant wildlife and offer visitors a genuine wilderness experience just a short drive from urban centers.
Campsite details
AccessibilityHandicap-accessible facilities are present at the park, including accessible comfort stations and other amenities.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious and suitable for large RVs and setups, as well as for tents.
Sites PrivacyMany campsites are reported to be private, shaded, and well-spaced out. "Sites are spaced apart so you're not right up on your neighbors," one reviewer noted.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesPrimitive tent camping offers privacy; waterfront sites are ideal for sunsets. Loop E recommended for spacious campsites.
Best CampsitesLoop E site 152 is described as large and level, suitable for larger RVs. Crosswinds site A8 is noted for its shade and amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3PM
Check-out
Unknown
Stay Limit
Unknown
Guests Allowed Per Site
Unknown
Groups
Group sites are described as some of the best in the area by users. "The group camping sites are excellent, few of the best in town," one review stated.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are generally spaced apart with loops such as E and Crosswinds having specific utilities and layouts.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, though water at campsites is unavailable in winter.
Reservation Platformswww.ncparks.gov, Reserve America
Walk-in AvailabilityLoop E offers non-reservable sites on a first-come-first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations handled through Reserve America; third-party reservations may complicate refunds.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Jordan Lake offers a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, swimming, fishing, and boating. Visitors can also enjoy wildlife viewing and picnics. "Lots of water to enjoy, clean and inviting," one camper noted.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available within the facility. A user mentioned, "Great hiking trails," but specifics about the trail lengths and difficulty are not provided.Fishing
Fishing is permitted and is a popular activity. One review cited, "Great place to fish," while another added, "Husband enjoyed fishing from shore."Swimming
Swimming areas are available, including beach-like areas. A user mentioned that the lake is "super warm" in summer, making it ideal for a relaxing swim.Boating
Boating is a major activity supported by facilities such as boat launch ramps. One reviewer stated, "Great boat ramp and parking across the street from the campground."Wildlife viewing
Visitors have reported seeing a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles. One camper shared, "While kayaking on the lake, we were visited by a bald eagle."Beach activities
The park features multiple beaches for activities like sunbathing and swimming. "They have 3 beaches," one reviewer noted.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking are popular. "While kayaking on the lake, we were visited by a bald eagle," said one user.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated rings. Specific fire policies not outlined.
- Quiet hours likely enforced, but no specific times provided.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes at night; snapping turtles near the water; turkey vultures described as destructive (damaging property).
Active alertsBathrooms in some loops were noted as closed or in poor condition.
Weather forecast
83
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 51%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Ranger Station on-site, Contact: 919-362-0586. Closest hospital is in Apex, approximately 10 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season likely in summer months, with high temperatures in July and August.
Trash and recyclingRecycling stations are available on-site, along with trash facilities. Specific details about pickup schedules are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresJordan Lake offers close access for kayaking, fishing, and swimming. Waterfront camping is available.
Common complaintsIssues with bathroom cleanliness, non-enforcement of park rules, campground layout for large RVs, and complications with reservation systems.
HostHosts are described as helpful by user reviews. Specific contact information not provided.
Campground Map
280 State Park Rd, Apex, North Carolina, 27523, United States
Driving directionsTraveling west or east on I-40 from Raleigh, exit onto US 1/US 64 west (exit 293A, Sanford/Asheboro). Take the US 64 exit (exit 98B) and travel west. The park office is on the left just before the bridge over Jordan Lake. Traveling east on I-40 from Greensboro, take exit 274, NC 751/Jordan Lake, go south on 751 and turn right onto US 64 to travel west. The park office is on the left just before the bridge over Jordan Lake.
The GPS coordinates provided should be used as the park address does not function properly on standard GPS systems. Roads are paved and accessible from major highways, but travelers should take care to follow the described directions precisely.Nearby places
Apex (approx. 10 miles), Cary (approx. 15 miles), Chapel Hill (approx. 20 miles), Durham (approx. 25 miles), Raleigh (approx. 25 miles)
Nearby supplies
Nearby towns such as Apex and Cary offer grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel within a 10-15 mile radius.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Jordan Lake State Rec Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area receives overwhelmingly positive reviews. Common themes include the beauty of the lake, spacious and shaded campsites, and a range of recreational activities. However, issues with facilities like showers and bathrooms are occasionally mentioned.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive feedback mentions clean and well-spaced campsites, great access to the lake, and abundant recreational opportunities. "This is one of our favorite places to camp," and "Great water front...
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Common Concerns
Most complaints center around the maintenance of certain facilities, such as bathrooms and showers. Specific issues include bugs in the showers and poor water pressure. One review noted, "The shower...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Several users recommend bringing bug spray and carefully choosing campsites. One reviewer advised, "Ask what bathrooms are open before you book a site."
Seasonal Insights
Spring and autumn are highlighted as the best seasons for camping due to pleasant weather and fewer insects. Summer is praised for warm lake temperatures but critiqued for bugs and busy beaches....
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Camper Quotes
"We enjoyed a spacious, shaded site in a clean, well-kept campground." "Swimming was good, and the water is super warm." "Great state park, nice shady campsites that are spaced apart." "Love the...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Loop E and Crosswinds Campground receive specific praise. Site 152 in Loop E is described as "a good, large, level site," while Crosswinds' Site A8 is noted as "large shaded site with gravel, firepit...
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Accessibility Features
Facilities are mostly accessible, with handicap access noted in official content. However, one user mentioned difficulty with a bathroom being closed near their campsite, despite accompanying a...
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Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome at the campground, and several reviews mention positive experiences camping with dogs. "My husband and I, along with our dog, come here quite often and always enjoy our time here!"
Last updated August 10, 2025