How much does camping cost at Jordan Lake State Rec Area?

Camping fees at Jordan Lake State Rec Area range from $20-$35/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Jordan Lake State Rec Area first-come first-served or reservation?

Jordan Lake State Rec Area accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Jordan Lake State Rec Area before I book?

Yes! Jordan Lake State Rec Area has 4 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Jordan Lake State Rec Area?

Jordan Lake State Rec Area is open Peak season likely in summer months, with high temperatures in July and August.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Jordan Lake State Rec Area?

Yes, Jordan Lake State Rec Area has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Jordan Lake State Rec Area?

Fire policies at Jordan Lake State Rec Area: Campfires are allowed within designated rings. Specific fire policies not outlined.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

Are dogs allowed at Jordan Lake State Rec Area?

Yes, pets are allowed at Jordan Lake State Rec Area. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Jordan Lake State Rec Area?

Jordan Lake State Rec Area offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Jordan Lake State Rec Area?

Popular activities at Jordan Lake State Rec Area include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Jordan Lake State Rec Area

4.39

136 reviews

280 State Park Rd, Apex, North Carolina, 27523, United States

Top 20% in NCFall

Summer Destination

Featured in:Boating Camping North Carolina Swimming Camping North Carolina Family-Friendly Campgrounds North Carolina +1 more

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

259 ft

Price

$20 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on Jordan Lake State Recreation Area Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

259 ft

Price

$20 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Partial HookupsShowers

Book on Jordan Lake State Recreation Area Official Website

Get Directions

Jordan Lake State Rec Area

$20.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Campsite fees range from $20 to $35 depending on the type, such as tent or RV sites.

No paid fee categories listed.

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Reserve America

Provider

9193620586null

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Jordan Lake State Rec Area

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Campground Map

280 State Park Rd, Apex, North Carolina, 27523, United States

Jordan Lake State Rec Area

280 State Park Rd, Apex, North Carolina, 27523, United States

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.

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.

Weather at Jordan Lake State Rec Area

Current alert: Bathrooms in some loops were noted as closed or in poor condition.

Best Time to Camp at Jordan Lake State Rec Area

Fall is the standout season here. Mid-October through November brings daytime highs in the 50s to 70s, nights in the 40s and 50s, and dropping humidity. Leaf color peaks, fishing improves, and bird migration picks up. Weekdays are quieter than the busy summer months. Summer delivers warm lake water ideal for swimming. August sees peak temperatures. But also brings heat, humidity, and bugs. Winter stays mild enough for camping, with occasional 70-degree days, though some facilities may be limited. Spring weather is variable; late summer and early fall can bring storms.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

5.0 / 5

Top 20% in NC

Fall is the standout season: pleasant temps, peak leaf color, improved fishing and birding.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season likely in summer months, with high temperatures in July and August.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round, though water at campsites is unavailable in winter.

About Jordan Lake State Rec Area

Jordan Lake State Recreation Area sits on a 14,000-acre reservoir in central North Carolina, about 30 minutes southwest of Raleigh. The campground offers a mix of tent sites, RV sites with hookups, and primitive camping across multiple loops, with fees ranging from $20 to $35 per night. Campers get direct lake access, shaded sites, and amenities including showers and flush toilets.

The campground accommodates various camping styles, including sites for RVs, tents, and group camping.

Weather and SeasonsFall is the standout season here. Mid-October through November brings daytime highs in the 50s to 70s, nights in the 40s and 50s, and dropping humidity. Leaf color peaks, fishing improves, and bird migration picks up. Weekdays are quieter than the busy summer months. Summer delivers warm lake water ideal for swimming. August sees peak temperatures. But also brings heat, humidity, and bugs. Winter stays mild enough for camping, with occasional 70-degree days, though some facilities may be limited. Spring weather is variable; late summer and early fall can bring storms.

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 SceneryThe campground spreads through mature hardwood forests along the shoreline of this man-made lake, now decades old and fully integrated into the landscape. Thick tree cover provides shade across most sites, with pines and oaks creating natural privacy buffers. The lake itself dominates the scenery. Calm water stretches to forested ridges, and herons fish the shallows. At 259 feet elevation, the terrain is gently rolling. Wildlife is common, especially waterfowl and songbirds along the water's edge.

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.

Scenic ViewsBeautiful views of Jordan Lake are noted, including waterfront campsites.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground offers camping only; no hotel-style lodges or luxury accommodations are available.

Programs & ActivitiesNo information about cultural or educational programs is provided.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

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 camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are spaced well apart. You won't be on top of your neighbors. Pads are spacious enough for large RVs and gear. Loops like E and Crosswinds have electric and water hookups, while primitive areas offer more seclusion. The layout varies by loop, so site selection matters if you're particular about shade, proximity to bathrooms, or lake views.

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.

AccessibilityHandicap-accessible facilities are present at the park, including accessible comfort stations and other amenities.

Site SizeCampsites are described as spacious and suitable for large RVs and setups, as well as for tents.

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.

Recommended SitesPrimitive tent camping offers privacy; waterfront sites are ideal for sunsets. Loop E recommended for spacious campsites.

Best CampsitesLoop E site 152 gets mentioned for its size and level pad, good for larger RVs. Crosswinds site A8 offers solid shade and amenities. Waterfront tent sites are popular for direct lake access, though they fill quickly. Reviews suggest asking staff about bathroom locations before booking, since open facilities vary and can affect convenience depending on your site.

Need help booking Jordan Lake State Rec Area?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

ReserveAmerica Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Jordan Lake State Recreation Area offers a range of amenities for campers, including an amphitheater, bath houses, boat launch ramps, comfort stations, dump stations, fire rings, handicap access, hiking trails, information centers, parking, picnic tables, playgrounds, recycling stations, shower facilities, swimming areas, and water spigots. User reviews highlight the cleanliness of the bathrooms and the availability of showers, although some reviews point out issues like bugs in the shower areas. One user review states, "Restrooms are being updated with hands-free fixtures, including the showers."

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Water hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

I manage this campground

RV details

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

Fishing

Swimming

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Beach activities

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMosquitoes at night; snapping turtles near the water; turkey vultures described as destructive (damaging property).

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed within designated rings. Specific fire policies not outlined.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours likely enforced, but no specific times provided.

Emergency ServicesRanger Station on-site, Contact: 919-362-0586. Closest hospital is in Apex, approximately 10 miles away.

Trash & RecyclingRecycling stations are available on-site, along with trash facilities. Specific details about pickup schedules are not provided.

Water FeaturesJordan Lake offers close access for kayaking, fishing, and swimming. Waterfront camping is available.

Camp HostHosts are described as helpful by user reviews. Specific contact information not provided.

Cell CoverageLimited data coverage within the park, but voice calls are possible in some areas. One user shared, "You can make and receive voice calls, but once within the park area, obtaining data is hit or miss."

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.4

136 reviews

Recommended

Jordan Lake State Rec Area is recommended, placing it in the top 40% 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

Based on 136 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 136 reviews.

Loop ELoved
Loop E and Crosswinds Campground receive specific praise.
Site 152Loved
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 and picnic table."

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...

Based on 136 reviews

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...

Based on 136 reviews

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."

Based on 136 reviews

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....

Based on 136 reviews

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...

Based on 136 reviews

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...

Based on 136 reviews

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!"

Based on 136 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Lake-focused campers who want hookups and waterfront access near the Triangle. Loop E site 152 and Crosswinds A8 are crowd favorites. Fall weekdays hit the sweet spot: cooler temps, fewer people, bald eagles on the water.

Skip if

Bathroom quality is genuinely inconsistent, some loops had closures and bug-infested showers in recent reports. Ask which comfort stations are open before you lock in a site, or plan to bring your own shower shoes and patience.

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