Jordan Lake State Recreation Area
A vast recreation area with 9 lakes, offering hiking, swimming, boating, and camping amidst natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful fishing & swimming
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area
Best Time
Peaceful fishing & swimming
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast recreation area with 9 lakes, offering hiking, swimming, boating, and camping amidst natural beauty.
"Beautiful lake and rec area. Had a great weekend! Took a little hike and swam the days away."
Bring Cash for Fees
Some access points may not have reliable card readers. Cash is king! :moneybag:
Kayak/Canoe Peaceful Waters
Areas without motorboats offer serene paddling and picnic spots. :kayak:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Seaforth Beach
Seaforth Access
North Carolina's largest sandy lake beach, perfect for swimming and family fun.
Ebenezer Church Trail
Ebenezer Church Access
A serene 1-mile loop through mixed forests, ideal for easy, peaceful hikes.
New Hope Red Trail
New Hope Access
A moderate 2.7-mile loop with rolling hills and rocky sections for a more adventurous hike.
Sunset Views
Various lakefront areas
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky over the water – a perfect end to any day.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds: Weekday Mornings are Key
Prepare for Fees & Amenities
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash for Fees
Some access points may not have reliable card readers. Cash is king!
Kayak/Canoe Peaceful Waters
Areas without motorboats offer serene paddling and picnic spots. :kayak:
Check Campground Bathrooms
Some older campground bathrooms need renovation; check other loops if needed. :bath:
Family-Friendly Fun
Great for kids with fishing, swimming, and playgrounds. :child:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash for Fees
Some access points may not have reliable card readers. Cash is king!
Kayak/Canoe Peaceful Waters
Areas without motorboats offer serene paddling and picnic spots. :kayak:
Check Campground Bathrooms
Some older campground bathrooms need renovation; check other loops if needed. :bath:
Family-Friendly Fun
Great for kids with fishing, swimming, and playgrounds. :child:
Pack for All Weather
Evenings can be crisp; pack layers for comfortable camping.
Strict Check-in Times
Be aware of strict check-in times for campgrounds; plan to wait if you arrive early. :clock:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Jordan Lake for its beautiful scenery, abundant outdoor activities like hiking and swimming, and peaceful camping experiences, especially during sunsets. However, some note that bathrooms could use renovation and that the park can get very crowded on holidays, with occasional issues like smoke from other visitors. +1
"I'm pretty sure that it was coming Labor Day week after families have to go home for kids' school - peaceful, laid-back, beautiful. RV camping water & electric hook-ups only. We brought our kayaks & bikes. Motor boats were here as well. The bathhouse was fairly clean and accessible. We look fwd to returning here."
ann horton
"Beautiful lake and rec area. Had a great weekend! Took a little hike and swam the days away. The day use areas were really nice and clean but we spent most of our time at the campers only beach at our campground."
Tia Jones
"Huge campground with many lakefront large sites. We stayed in Poplar Point/loop G. Heads up bathrooms need to be renovated. I drove to loop C where the bathrooms were newer. Beautiful lake untouched by development."
Sue Davis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area is located in the Triangle area of North Carolina, between towns like Apex, Pittsboro, New Hill, and Chapel Hill. It has seven access points, with Seaforth and Ebenezer Church being popular starting points for trails and beaches.
Public transportation options to Jordan Lake State Recreation Area are limited. It's best accessed by car, with multiple parking areas available at various access points.
Key access points include Seaforth, Ebenezer Church, New Hope, Crosswinds, and Poplar Point. Each offers different amenities like trails, beaches, and campgrounds.
Jordan Lake is approximately 30 miles west of downtown Raleigh, making it a convenient day trip or weekend getaway.
Yes, there are entrance fees, especially during peak season (Memorial Day to Labor Day) and on weekends in April, May, and September. Fees can range from $7 to $10 per day. Keep your receipt as it's valid for any access point the same day.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area generally operates year-round, but specific access points and facilities like campgrounds have their own hours. Day-use areas are typically open from sunrise to sunset.
Entrance fees vary. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, it's $10/day. On weekends and holidays in April, May, and September, it's also $10/day. It's free on all other days of the year.
Yes, frequent visitors can purchase a yearly pass for Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, which can be a cost-effective option.
It is highly recommended to book campsites in advance, especially during peak season and weekends, as Jordan Lake is North Carolina's most visited State Park.
Jordan Lake has strict check-in times for campgrounds. If you arrive early, you may be asked to wait at nearby locations like Hardy's or gas stations until the designated check-in time.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Jordan Lake offers a wide range of activities including hiking, swimming, boating, jet skiing, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, picnicking, and birdwatching. Bald eagles are also a common sight.
Yes, Jordan Lake has over 15 miles of hiking trails, including the Ebenezer Church Trail (1 mile loop), New Hope Red Trail (2.7 miles), and the Old Oak Trail (1 mile). Trails vary in difficulty from easy to moderate with some rocky terrain.
Jordan Lake features several swimming areas, including the large sandy beach at Seaforth Recreation Area. While popular, the water can be a bit dirty during peak times due to high visitor numbers.
Absolutely! Jordan Lake is popular for boating, jet skiing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Some areas are designated for no-motor boats, offering a more peaceful experience for paddlers.
Yes, Jordan Lake offers over 1,000 campsites, including RV sites with water and electric hook-ups. Popular campgrounds include Poplar Point and Crosswinds.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants directly within Jordan Lake State Recreation Area. Visitors typically bring their own food for picnics or prepare meals at their campsites.
Many access points offer picnic areas with tables and grills. Seaforth and Ebenezer Church are good options, and some areas are designated for no-motor boats, making them ideal for a peaceful picnic.
Yes, firewood is often available for purchase on-site at Jordan Lake, making it convenient for campers.
Nearby towns like Apex and Pittsboro offer various dining options, from casual eateries to local restaurants, if you need to grab a meal outside the park.
Alcohol policies can vary by access area and campground. It's advisable to check the specific rules for the area you plan to visit or camp in.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake itself offers stunning opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. Trails through the forests and views from the beaches are also picturesque.
Jordan Lake is home to abundant wildlife, including bald eagles, making it a great spot for nature photography. Remember to maintain a safe distance and respect the animals.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require permits. Always check park regulations if you're unsure.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended for capturing both landscapes and wildlife. A wide-angle lens is great for expansive lake views, while a telephoto lens is useful for birds.
Yes, Jordan Lake offers diverse photographic opportunities year-round. Spring brings blooming flora, summer offers vibrant lake activities, autumn provides colorful foliage, and winter can offer dramatic skies and fewer crowds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for potential crowds on weekends and holidays. Bringing cash for entrance fees is a good idea, as card readers can be unreliable.
Many families find the lake beaches and picnic areas ideal for a fun-filled day out. 💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own food for picnics or cooking at your campsite significantly cuts down on expenses. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) when entrance fees are lower or non-existent on weekdays.
Camping is also a budget-friendly accommodation option compared to hotels. 🛶 Paddlers & Boaters
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking Trails for Every Level
The Old Oak Trail is another accessible 1-mile option that winds through pine forests and touches upon the area's history. Many trails are well-maintained, but it's wise to wear sturdy footwear, especially on the New Hope Red Trail. Hikers often recommend bringing water and checking trail conditions, particularly after heavy rain. The varied terrain and scenic woodlands make for an enjoyable experience for all nature lovers.
Remember to check the specific access points for each trail, as they are spread across different areas of the recreation area. This ensures you can easily find your starting point and enjoy your chosen hike without unnecessary detours.
Water Activities Galore
However, be prepared for crowds during peak times, and note that the water quality can be affected by the high volume of visitors. For those seeking a more tranquil experience on the water, kayaking and paddleboarding are highly recommended. Certain areas of the lake are designated as no-motor boat zones, providing calm and peaceful waters perfect for paddling and enjoying the scenery.
When planning your water activities, remember that some access points may have Wi-Fi issues, so bringing cash for fees is advisable.
Whether you're looking for high-energy fun or a serene escape, Jordan Lake offers a refreshing aquatic adventure for everyone.Camping Under the Stars
+3 Many sites offer lakefront views and amenities such as water and electric hook-ups, making it a comfortable outdoor experience. While the campgrounds offer a great escape, it's worth noting that some older facilities, like bathrooms, may require renovation. Visitors have suggested checking different loops within campgrounds for newer facilities.
Despite these minor points, the overall camping experience at Jordan Lake is highly regarded for its natural beauty and the opportunity to disconnect and enjoy the outdoors. It's a fantastic option for families and individuals looking for a memorable camping trip.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit