Jordan Lake State Rec Area

Star4.37
78 reviews
280 State Park Rd, Apex, North Carolina, 27523, United States
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

259 ft

Price

$20 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Jordan Lake State Recreation Area site

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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.
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

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What Campers Say

4.37

Recommended

Based on 78 reviews

2016 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspaciouswaterlake

Some mention

reservation

"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."

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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

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.

Best Time to Camp at Jordan Lake State Rec Area

Experience 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.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Warm lake temperatures and peak water activities in summer; can be busy and buggy.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.5 / 5

Spring and autumn highlighted as best seasons: pleasant weather and fewer insects.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.5 / 5
Top 14% in NC

Spring highlighted as a top season for pleasant weather and lower insect/activity levels.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

Open year-round but lake water/campsite water access reduced; fewer activities available.

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

About Jordan Lake State Rec Area

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.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
3PM
Check-out
Unknown
Stay Limit
Unknown

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Electricity hookups
Flush toilets
Dump station
Fire rings

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.
HikingHiking trails are available within the facility. A user mentioned, "Great hiking trails," but specifics about the trail lengths and difficulty are not provided.
FishingFishing is permitted and is a popular activity. One review cited, "Great place to fish," while another added, "Husband enjoyed fishing from shore."
SwimmingSwimming 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.
BoatingBoating 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 viewingVisitors 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 activitiesThe park features multiple beaches for activities like sunbathing and swimming. "They have 3 beaches," one reviewer noted.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMosquitoes 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 at Jordan Lake State Rec Area

Reviews

4.4
78 reviews
Recommended
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 78 reviews

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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Based on 78 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...
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Based on 78 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 78 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....
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Based on 78 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...
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Based on 78 reviews

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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Based on 78 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...
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Based on 78 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 78 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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