The best camping near Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Jordan Lake State Recreation Area adventure.

100% (22 reviews)

If you like boating, bass fishing, and bald eagles, this lakeside retreat is a winner.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds near Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

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Tar River Life

17 sites · Lodging, Tents40 acres · Lake Royale, NC

Back to the basics, come and experience Tar River Life’s primitive camping on the Tar River. Enjoy being on the river and listening to slow running sound of the Tar River. Bring your own tent or rent one of ours. You can drive your vehicle to all of our campsites. The drive to camp is about 1/2 miles. Each site includes a fire pit, wood and trash bin. Cook your own meals or try and catch your own fish from the river. Campsites can be secluded or grouped. Each site comes with a picnic table, 1 bundle of wood and trash can. Stay for a night or longer period of time, come and enjoy the outdoors with us. We have lots of walking trails, fishing access, wildlife, kayaking and tubing (must be purchased through us). 2WD vehicles are ok except during wet conditions. There is also the Vollmer Farm, with seasonal produce a Full Coffee Shop with breakfast goodies and baked goods and not to mention their fabulous ice cream. They have goods from around NC including, eggs, honey, meats, beers, wine and more. There is a grocery store (Food Lion) about 15 minutes away. So you can stock up on supplies on your way to your next adventure. We are pet friendly!

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R.O.S.A. Land Campground

6 sites · Lodging, Tents23 acres · Rougemont, NC

Welcome to R.O.S.A. Land Campground! Hot Water Outdoor Shower Back Up and newly chopped, dead Hackberry wood available as EXTRAS. R.O.S.A. stands for Rare Occaneechi Saponi Alluvial Land-based retreat and campground offering individuals and small groups a place for rest, exploration, sanctuary, and grounding. Equal parts woodland, floodplain wetland and pastureland, R.O.S.A land is stewarding 23 acres of ecological magical oasis on a tributary of the Upper Tar River in an Aquatic Habitat deemed an important NC Natural Heritage area of the Piedmont of North Carolina. Rare mussel species and amphibians live here. Come see for yourself! This is a queer-stewarded, solidarity-focused rematriation project. This land is co-deeded to MK of Handewa Farms and owned at present by K Cox, Steward of the Respite and will be passed on to MK and her seven Afro-Indigenous children once the Roundhouse is paid down. In the meantime, an intentional community of farmhub tenants, visitors, campers and Handewa Farm members all co-habitate on the land together. We offer nature-based immersion for artists, healers, cultural and frontline organizers and their families taking time for restful resistance. It is a triptyech of woods, water and pastureland butting up against an untouched wild old hardwood forest - a combination unlikley found in the PIedmont- nestled among small tobacco, horse and hay farms in the Southeast corner of Granville County between Oxford and Roxboro in the beautiful PIedmont of North Carolina.

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Brookhaven Mill Farm

4 sites · RVs, Tents23 acres · Greensboro, NC

Our farm is an agritourism farm that offers seasonal events, educational workshops, a petting zoo and animal therapy for a fee. It is free to walk around the farm and visit our animals, but there is a cost to go inside the barnyard for a petting zoo experience. We don't have hookups, so bring a generator if you need it. If you need to fill up your RV water tank, we charge $10. A Grill Pavilion is available to rent for $20 extra. See photos. Propane, grill, table and party lights included. Pitch your tent on the edge of the woods or close by the stream in the woods. If you enjoy watching wildlife, you're in for a treat...this magical portion of the farm provides a forest cover for songbirds, owls, deer, red-shouldered hawks, both red and gray fox and wild turkey. We allow check-ins during the week after 12 noon, perfect for folks passing through and just need a safe and quiet place to park for the night and not interested in visiting the farm store, the barnyard or the rest of the farm, which are closed during week. Weekends from 10-4 we open the Farm to visitors (campers and non-campers alike) to visit our animals and our Farm Store with a variety of groceries, supplies, gifts, and critter snacks so you can feed your choice of animals! While we are dog-friendly, we also observe a dog-free zone closer to the barn. We have a complimentary 1-1/2 acre off-leash dog park just steps away from all 3 sites. Our large grassy field can accommodate multiple tent campers, travel trailers, and RVs under 30'. There is 1 maintained porta potty shared by 3 sites.

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River Farm on the Neuse River Trail

12 sites · RVs, Tents17 acres · Clayton, NC

River Farm is a fantastic stop if you are cycling the Neuse River Trail and need an over night stay. We are a peaceful campsite located along the Greenway Trail 20 minutes from Downtown Raleigh and 10 minutes from Clayton. The farm offers private wooded meadows with direct access to the Greenway for walking and cycling. Campers can either rent a tent or bring their own, choosing between secluded spots, shaded areas, or open spaces. The campsite is accessible via a gravel farm track and is close to the Greenway, river, and main house for bathroom access. Nearby attractions include the Bailey Sarah William Preserve with 447 acres and 16.6 miles of multi-use trails, Sandy Pines Preserve with 563 acres of trails and fishing (18 minutes away), and Robertson Mill Pond for trails and seasonal kayaking (17 minutes away). For water activities, Neuse Adventures Canoe and Kayak Rentals is just 12 minutes away. River Farm offers a tranquil camping experience with the convenience of nearby Raleigh events, including the Walnut Creek Music Park, only 20 minutes away for concertgoers.

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The Pint Sized Pasture

2 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Sanford, NC

Welcome to our 6th generation farm, dedicated to miniature livestock and memorable events. Enjoy a range of activities, including a petting zoo, goat yoga, field trips, on-farm events, and camping. We often have fresh eggs, fruits, and vegetables available for purchase. Conveniently located near downtown Sanford, you'll find plenty of dining options and three breweries to explore. If you wish to extend your stay beyond one night, please let us know. Check out the video below for a glimpse into the unique experiences our guests enjoy here with us.

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Rural Chapel Hill Forestry Stay

2 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Chapel Hill, NC

Our property is a private 25 acre forestry plot connected to an adjoining 130 acre family-owned plot, with only 1 house on the 150+ acres. Most of the land is wooded with a couple large fields. Long private driveway. 3+ miles of private maintained walking trails great for human and dog guests! There are a number of creeks that run on the property and a decent size pond with many species of birds- perfect for watching while having a morning coffee, or for an afternoon stint of fishing. Close proximity to downtown Carrboro and Chapel Hill (12-15 minutes), 15 minutes to downtown Hillsborough, and 25 minutes to Durham.

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Private meadow and pond

1 site · RV, Tent21 acres · Mebane, NC

Our property is a small hobby farm. The meadow you will be camping in was formed in 1994 when hurricane Fran came through and laid down several acres of hardwood trees. The fallen trees were harvested and the land was cleared and a pond was built and a blueberry patch was planted. Pitch your tent(s) in our private meadow with a small pond on our 21 acre property. You're welcome to fish and walk around the property. Enjoy a peaceful evening by the firepit and the beautiful starry nights. We have a very friendly farm dog named Luna that does roam the property and will likely visit you. Chapel Hill, Mebane, and Hillsborough are all short drives from your campsite. We cater to familes and small groups, NO PARTIES!

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Sugarneck Glamping Resort

2 sites · Lodging400 acres · Broadway, NC

Set on 400 acres of pure privacy, Sugarneck boasts luxury glamping with wildlife ( Turkeys, Deer) Walking Trails, Lawn Games, Gathering areas, 1 mile away from the Cape Fear River Boat Ramp and close to the many outdoor adventures Sanford NC has to offer including Kayaking, Zoos, Beautiful parks and Restaurants.

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Off Grid Living

6 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Pleasant Garden, NC

Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent on our Private Small Farm in a residential area. Off grid life is great for people who love a rustic natural feel. We are family oriented and we live on the property. Our goal is to welcome people that have a love for community, nature, and plant based living. We run a small farm on the property and we have young urban farmers that help maintain the property as a means to learn more about the environment. Our non profit garden is the means to feed communities in the surrounding areas. We are thankful to provide a safe space for you to explore yourself naturally. Choose Add one with the owner Earth Feathur for guided yoga& meditation, natural medicine, and raw vegan food prep. Or join Our garden manager for an herbal identification class. We welcome you with open arms of love and light.

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Animal Sanctuary and Peace Park

5 sites · Tents11 acres · Coats, NC

Calling all hippies, treehuggers, Earth worshipers, and others who enjoy immersing themselves in nature! At Animal Ed.ventures Sanctuary, we are all about engendering a respectful, compassionate, and harmonic relationship with each other as well as the Natural World and her amazing creatures. We have high hopes for the long-term preservation of our remarkable planet, her breathtaking habitats, stunning species, and awe-inspiring ability to support the Natural Order of all of it. For almost 2 decades, we’ve been driven by the dream of creating a place of peace and respite for all who cross our threshold. From our USDA licensed educational program to our ongoing rescue efforts, we have the ability to provide an enriching and enlightening experience for people of all ages. While camping with us, visit Betsy, the Two-toed Sloth, and Teddy, the Capuchin Monkey, plus many other ambassadors at our sanctuary who are sure to inspire you and remind us of our interconnectedness!

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Benzai Bloomstead

7 sites · Tents32 acres · Graham, NC

8 minutes from the Saxapahaw General Store and the Haw River Ballroom, you'll find us tucked away off the road. 32 gorgeous acres with exciting topography including two creeks, vast healthy woods and several open pastures. During the day, the blue heron flies overhead. At night, a pack of coyotes sings a wild chorus. The property has a home, a studio and a barn on it, so when you're near the parking area, you'll see those of us who live here. The campsites are private/secluded. We look forward to hosting you. Please note that this camping spot does require walking from the parking area to the camping spot and crossing the creek.

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Farm Stay at Saxapahaw Country Club

5 sites · RVs, Tents31 acres · Graham, NC

The Saxapahaw Country Club is a beautiful 31-acre working farm and event space. Located just a few minutes from Saxapahaw Village, it's a convenient and gorgeous place to stay. While we are happy to be a late-night crash spot for after shows, we hope you stay a minute to walk the fields, hang in the hammocks, sit by the pond, or take a swing from the branches of our 200 year old White Oak tree. You'll come down our curvy driveway through the trees, and see our event barn on the left. In front of the barn is a communal space for campers to enjoy with a great view. This area has a fire pit, chairs, wood-fired grill, handwashing station, and farm table. Please note, this farm stay is an agritourism activity subject to the limit of liabilities as described in N.C.G.S § 99E‑32(b). We have sheep and pigs in the far pastures behind electric fencing. You are welcome to look but don't touch the fence! We also have 3 very friendly farm cats. Pork from the farm is available for purchase, as well as firewood. Nearby activities: Entertainment: Haw River Ballroom, Saturdays in Saxapahaw Eats: Cup 22 Coffee House, Saxapahaw General Store, The Eddy Restaurant, Haw River Farmhouse Ales, Steel String Brewery Nature: The Haw River Canoe & Kayak Co, Saxapahaw Lake Paddle Access, Saxapahaw Island Park & Playground, Cane Creek Mountain Area

The best camping near Jordan Lake State Recreation Area guide

Overview

About

Drive just a short way from Chapel Hill to visit this park. Have fun on the water with two swim beaches, three boat ramps, and five access areas. This 14,000-acre reservoir has an undeveloped, unspoiled shoreline. You get a truly natural vacation here.

Begin with a day on the lake. Two boat ramps are open 24 hours a day. Rent kayaks or pontoon boats at the marina. Fish for bass, crappie, catfish, and panfish.

View majestic wildlife that calls this lake home. Bald eagles and osprey are popular choices. The lake hosts the highest concentration of bald eagles in the eastern United States. Watch as these birds dive towards the lake surface to snag their prey.

Learn the history of this area at Heritage Day. The festival occurs every first Saturday in October. Take advantage of mild weather at this time of year to make a week-long vacation.

Reserve one of more than 1,000 campsites at the park. Over 600 of these sites have water and electrical hook-ups.

Notable campgrounds

Best for primitive camping: New Hope Overlook Campground has 24 walk-in tent sites in a tranquil wooded setting.
Best for RVs: Poplar Point Campground has 579 sites, many with water and electric hookups and all with picnic tables, grills, and lantern holders.
Best for lake access: Crosswinds Campground has 182 RV and tent sites within walking distance of a boat launch and swimming beach.

Tips for snagging a campsite

You can reserve most campsites in advance via the Reserve America website. Select campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis only.
Campsite reservations open 11 months in advance, and bookings are available up to 24 hours in advance.
Holiday weekend bookings require a minimum 2-night booking unless you are booking fewer than seven days before arrival.
Campsites can book up as fast on summer and holiday weekends, so reserve your site as early as possible to avoid disappointment.

When to go

When the mercury rises, Jordan Lake is a popular spot to cool off from North Carolina’s summer heat, but it’s often still warm enough to swim in late spring and early fall. Camping is available year-round at Jordan Lake, but the lake’s five campgrounds all have different seasonal opening dates, so be sure to check ahead. Bald eagle sightings are most common during the spring migration (April through June).

Know before you go

Jordan Lake State Recreation Area is in Chatham and Wake counties, 24 miles west of Raleigh or about a 30-minute drive away. Nine access areas dot the lake.
A per-vehicle admission fee is charged daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day and on weekends in April, May, and September. Camping reservation fees also apply, and a state fishing license is required for fishing.
Jordan Lake facilities include three boat ramps, a canoe launch, two swimming beaches, three fishing piers, a marina, two playgrounds, and several picnic areas and restrooms.
There are accessible restrooms, picnic areas, swimming beaches, and courtesy docks at Jordan Lake. Accessible campsites are available at Parker's Creek, Poplar Point, and Crosswinds campgrounds.