Camping in Raleigh, NC, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2024

97% (1299 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Raleigh

Available this weekend

Top camping destinations

Stone Mountain State Park

1207 campgrounds

Uwharrie National Forest

924 campgrounds

Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

Star Hosts in Raleigh

99%

(82)

Tar River Life

16 sites · 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!

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.

100%

(354)

Honah Lee Farms

5 sites · RVs, Tents144 acres · Rougemont, NC

Our camp is the shared vision of Brian and Lee and son Michael. We fell in love with this beautiful property where we plan to build our eco-friendly, off-grid homestead and farm. Lee's favorite song and the inspiration behind our name is "Puff the Magic Dragon" by Peter, Paul and Mary. A land of whimsical imagination, beauty and maybe a dragon or three is our shared vision for the farm. The camping options are flexible, ranging from prepared campsites along both Little and Deep creeks with composting outhouses nearby, to "Camper's Choice" options where you may hike in or drive in and create your own camping experience. Please note that since the "Camper's Choice" options allow freedom to select hike-in or drive-in options, the exact distance to nearest outhouse may vary. There are 144 acres to explore so campers can set up a secluded getaway or cluster together in a group. We are flexible and can work with you to create a camping experience that suits your needs. Learn more about this land: Honah Lee Farms has over 140 acres of woods with open fields distributed throughout. We are bordered to the south by the Flat River, to the west by Deep Creek, and to the north by Little Creek. Most of our campsites are nestled in the trees along one of these bodies of water and all campers have access to the 10 foot waterfall area where Deep Creek runs into the Flat River.

Tanglewild

4 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Raleigh, NC

This beautiful spot is tucked away in a secluded private street. It feels like the country, but in the middle of Raleigh suburbs so we are close to all the amenities. There is a small stream running through the backyard and about 4 acres for exploring if you up for it. There are birds, deer, and other wildlife that also call Tanglewild home. This is a great spot if you are passing through, visiting friends for family nearby that don't have space for your RV, or just want to get away from home for a few days but don't really want to go that far away. Amenities are close: RDU (4 miles), RTP (7 miles), Crabtree Valley Mall (4 miles), Umstead (3 miles), Target (1 mile), several grocery stores (1 mile), Falls lake (10 miles), and Brier Creek (4 miles) Note, the spot is a bit tricky to back into. You might need to back down the driveway so take a look before you drive down and get yourself in a tricky spot.

Privette Pointe

2 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Wake Forest, NC

Once a working cattle and tobacco farm, this land has been in our family for generations. Experience magnificent sunrises over rolling hills, just inside Wake County near the Franklin County border. Two sites beside the pond, stocked with fish, a bridge to feed them bread from, and a fountain to listen to as you unwind.Learn more about this land:Wake up beside the pond, listening to to fountain as you drink your morning coffee. Fish from the bank or toss bread to the fish from the bridge. Hike the property and take pictures of breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.

12 top campgrounds near Raleigh

100%

(11)

Tanglewild

4 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Raleigh, NC

This beautiful spot is tucked away in a secluded private street. It feels like the country, but in the middle of Raleigh suburbs so we are close to all the amenities. There is a small stream running through the backyard and about 4 acres for exploring if you up for it. There are birds, deer, and other wildlife that also call Tanglewild home. This is a great spot if you are passing through, visiting friends for family nearby that don't have space for your RV, or just want to get away from home for a few days but don't really want to go that far away. Amenities are close: RDU (4 miles), RTP (7 miles), Crabtree Valley Mall (4 miles), Umstead (3 miles), Target (1 mile), several grocery stores (1 mile), Falls lake (10 miles), and Brier Creek (4 miles) Note, the spot is a bit tricky to back into. You might need to back down the driveway so take a look before you drive down and get yourself in a tricky spot.

95%

(10)

Nurture Nature Village

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Raleigh, NC

Near downtown Raleigh, you can play and rest amidst our 3 acres surrounded by many more acres of natures finest suburban forest paradise. Sit or stroll around a natural pond and bubbling creek, walking trails, and free range chickens beneath 100' oak, maple, and gum trees offering a lush resting place all year around.

94%

(282)

Lakeside Retreats @ Walnut Hill

18 sites · Lodging320 acres · Raleigh, NC

Walnut Hill has been in the Mial/Williamson family since 1775.This camp site is on 320 acres of farm land only 20 minutes from downtown Raleigh. We offer so many amenities on Walnut Hill.Yurt Rentals, Group Rentals, Bath House, Sauna, Fishing, Walking / Biking Trails, 9 Hole Disc Golf Course, Canoe and Kayak Access, Music Stage / Picnic Shelter. It is next to the 400 acre Sarah and Bailey Williamson Preserve at Walnut Hill. The preserve is owned and operated by Triangle Land Conservancy (TLC) for beauty, peace, and tranquility.

Booked 2 times

1974 Pink & White Scotty Camper

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Durham, NC

Learn more about this land:Urban Camping in Rural Residential back yard near downtown Durham, NC. Rustic Bathroom and outdoor Enclosed Shower with hot water. The camper has Wi-Fi, Smart TV, Fridge, Microwave, Gas Stovetop, Toaster Oven, Dinette, In Camper Toilet (for going #1 only). Back yard is a shared space with Gas Grill, Fire Pit, and Laundry Room. Downtown Durham is a 5 min drive to Breweries, Coffee Shops, Music Venues, Restaurants, Parks, etc.

Privette Pointe

2 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Wake Forest, NC

Once a working cattle and tobacco farm, this land has been in our family for generations. Experience magnificent sunrises over rolling hills, just inside Wake County near the Franklin County border. Two sites beside the pond, stocked with fish, a bridge to feed them bread from, and a fountain to listen to as you unwind.Learn more about this land:Wake up beside the pond, listening to to fountain as you drink your morning coffee. Fish from the bank or toss bread to the fish from the bridge. Hike the property and take pictures of breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.

Tar River Life

16 sites · 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!

Honah Lee Farms

5 sites · RVs, Tents144 acres · Rougemont, NC

Our camp is the shared vision of Brian and Lee and son Michael. We fell in love with this beautiful property where we plan to build our eco-friendly, off-grid homestead and farm. Lee's favorite song and the inspiration behind our name is "Puff the Magic Dragon" by Peter, Paul and Mary. A land of whimsical imagination, beauty and maybe a dragon or three is our shared vision for the farm. The camping options are flexible, ranging from prepared campsites along both Little and Deep creeks with composting outhouses nearby, to "Camper's Choice" options where you may hike in or drive in and create your own camping experience. Please note that since the "Camper's Choice" options allow freedom to select hike-in or drive-in options, the exact distance to nearest outhouse may vary. There are 144 acres to explore so campers can set up a secluded getaway or cluster together in a group. We are flexible and can work with you to create a camping experience that suits your needs. Learn more about this land: Honah Lee Farms has over 140 acres of woods with open fields distributed throughout. We are bordered to the south by the Flat River, to the west by Deep Creek, and to the north by Little Creek. Most of our campsites are nestled in the trees along one of these bodies of water and all campers have access to the 10 foot waterfall area where Deep Creek runs into the Flat River.

100%

(1)

Brightwood Homestead

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Durham, NC

Welcome to Brightwood Homestead! This 4-acre property was acquired as raw land in 2020. Since then, we've organically built a place where autonomy and action meet. This little piece of paradise in Durham county is the base of operations for our non-profit organization. My partner, my newborn son, and our host of pets and livestock call this fledgling farm home! This property serves as a "living classroom," where I empower, encourage, and equip underserved people of color with the skills necessary to live holistic, self-sustainable lives. Our priority is food/occupational security and environmental awareness. Come and share our space for camping, a weekend getaway, a homestead experience, or a safe place to park during your travels. I spend the majority of my time working the land, occasionally visiting the office or schools. I'm available to help you settle in or point you in the direction of whatever you're looking for in Durham! Our homestead's amenities include: Reliable solar and grid power, filtered running well water. Clean, fully enclosed, and ventilated outhouse with running water and a flushing toilet. Private, spacious, and HEATED bathhouse with a waterfall shower. 800 sq. ft. screened-in Army tent doubling as a lounge and workspace equipped with a library, desk, comfy seating, and even a full-sized pool table! Large common area with a fire pit, 10ft grill/smoker, and picnic area. We are 15 minutes from bustling downtown Durham, grocery stores, and shopping. 20 minutes from the state park, Falls Lake, and the Eno River. Just off two major highways. Breakfast, lesson/experience, and volunteer packages available! Pet and child-friendly!

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.

SCOTTY’s SCAMP

2 sites · Tents250 acres · Knightdale, NC

The property is 1.5 miles from Knightdale/ 64 east highway, is very convenient for people headed east to coastal areas/ very private. no neighbors . Outside city limits. Property is 50% soybeans the rest is woods and cow pasture. Lots of open and shaded flat areas for tents ; small rv’s ..no amenities got to rough it . Plenty of water. Hiking down at creek is all shaded,lots of woods. The creek can be hiked with a small waterfall not far with all surrounding with woods the camp site u pick will be private with plenty of acreage.. no roads, no traffic, just an occasional raccoon or deer walking by

99%

(70)

Holt’s Hideaway

2 sites · RVs5 acres · Fearrington Village, NC

Small hobby farm in a family owned neighborhood just outside of downtown Chapel Hill. Learn more about this land: Large, level gravel RV sites with 30amp and 50amp power and water hookup. No dump station yet. Big rig friendly. Only 5 minutes to Jordan Lake and 10 minutes to UNC hospital. Private and safe area, each site has a fire pit. Tent campers welcome. Firewood available. Pull right in off paved state road. One pull through and one back in site available. Pets must be on a leash at all times.

97%

(370)

Animal Sanctuary and Peace Park

5 sites · TentsCoats, 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!

Under $50

100%

(354)

Honah Lee Farms

5 sites · RVs, Tents144 acres · Rougemont, NC

Our camp is the shared vision of Brian and Lee and son Michael. We fell in love with this beautiful property where we plan to build our eco-friendly, off-grid homestead and farm. Lee's favorite song and the inspiration behind our name is "Puff the Magic Dragon" by Peter, Paul and Mary. A land of whimsical imagination, beauty and maybe a dragon or three is our shared vision for the farm. The camping options are flexible, ranging from prepared campsites along both Little and Deep creeks with composting outhouses nearby, to "Camper's Choice" options where you may hike in or drive in and create your own camping experience. Please note that since the "Camper's Choice" options allow freedom to select hike-in or drive-in options, the exact distance to nearest outhouse may vary. There are 144 acres to explore so campers can set up a secluded getaway or cluster together in a group. We are flexible and can work with you to create a camping experience that suits your needs. Learn more about this land: Honah Lee Farms has over 140 acres of woods with open fields distributed throughout. We are bordered to the south by the Flat River, to the west by Deep Creek, and to the north by Little Creek. Most of our campsites are nestled in the trees along one of these bodies of water and all campers have access to the 10 foot waterfall area where Deep Creek runs into the Flat River.

Privette Pointe

2 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Wake Forest, NC

Once a working cattle and tobacco farm, this land has been in our family for generations. Experience magnificent sunrises over rolling hills, just inside Wake County near the Franklin County border. Two sites beside the pond, stocked with fish, a bridge to feed them bread from, and a fountain to listen to as you unwind.Learn more about this land:Wake up beside the pond, listening to to fountain as you drink your morning coffee. Fish from the bank or toss bread to the fish from the bridge. Hike the property and take pictures of breathtaking sunrises and sunsets.

Tanglewild

4 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Raleigh, NC

This beautiful spot is tucked away in a secluded private street. It feels like the country, but in the middle of Raleigh suburbs so we are close to all the amenities. There is a small stream running through the backyard and about 4 acres for exploring if you up for it. There are birds, deer, and other wildlife that also call Tanglewild home. This is a great spot if you are passing through, visiting friends for family nearby that don't have space for your RV, or just want to get away from home for a few days but don't really want to go that far away. Amenities are close: RDU (4 miles), RTP (7 miles), Crabtree Valley Mall (4 miles), Umstead (3 miles), Target (1 mile), several grocery stores (1 mile), Falls lake (10 miles), and Brier Creek (4 miles) Note, the spot is a bit tricky to back into. You might need to back down the driveway so take a look before you drive down and get yourself in a tricky spot.

Brightwood Homestead

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Durham, NC

Welcome to Brightwood Homestead! This 4-acre property was acquired as raw land in 2020. Since then, we've organically built a place where autonomy and action meet. This little piece of paradise in Durham county is the base of operations for our non-profit organization. My partner, my newborn son, and our host of pets and livestock call this fledgling farm home! This property serves as a "living classroom," where I empower, encourage, and equip underserved people of color with the skills necessary to live holistic, self-sustainable lives. Our priority is food/occupational security and environmental awareness. Come and share our space for camping, a weekend getaway, a homestead experience, or a safe place to park during your travels. I spend the majority of my time working the land, occasionally visiting the office or schools. I'm available to help you settle in or point you in the direction of whatever you're looking for in Durham! Our homestead's amenities include: Reliable solar and grid power, filtered running well water. Clean, fully enclosed, and ventilated outhouse with running water and a flushing toilet. Private, spacious, and HEATED bathhouse with a waterfall shower. 800 sq. ft. screened-in Army tent doubling as a lounge and workspace equipped with a library, desk, comfy seating, and even a full-sized pool table! Large common area with a fire pit, 10ft grill/smoker, and picnic area. We are 15 minutes from bustling downtown Durham, grocery stores, and shopping. 20 minutes from the state park, Falls Lake, and the Eno River. Just off two major highways. Breakfast, lesson/experience, and volunteer packages available! Pet and child-friendly!

Tar River Life

16 sites · 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!

Dog-friendly getaways

94%

(282)

Lakeside Retreats @ Walnut Hill

18 sites · Lodging320 acres · Raleigh, NC

Walnut Hill has been in the Mial/Williamson family since 1775.This camp site is on 320 acres of farm land only 20 minutes from downtown Raleigh. We offer so many amenities on Walnut Hill.Yurt Rentals, Group Rentals, Bath House, Sauna, Fishing, Walking / Biking Trails, 9 Hole Disc Golf Course, Canoe and Kayak Access, Music Stage / Picnic Shelter. It is next to the 400 acre Sarah and Bailey Williamson Preserve at Walnut Hill. The preserve is owned and operated by Triangle Land Conservancy (TLC) for beauty, peace, and tranquility.

Tar River Life

16 sites · 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!

Honah Lee Farms

5 sites · RVs, Tents144 acres · Rougemont, NC

Our camp is the shared vision of Brian and Lee and son Michael. We fell in love with this beautiful property where we plan to build our eco-friendly, off-grid homestead and farm. Lee's favorite song and the inspiration behind our name is "Puff the Magic Dragon" by Peter, Paul and Mary. A land of whimsical imagination, beauty and maybe a dragon or three is our shared vision for the farm. The camping options are flexible, ranging from prepared campsites along both Little and Deep creeks with composting outhouses nearby, to "Camper's Choice" options where you may hike in or drive in and create your own camping experience. Please note that since the "Camper's Choice" options allow freedom to select hike-in or drive-in options, the exact distance to nearest outhouse may vary. There are 144 acres to explore so campers can set up a secluded getaway or cluster together in a group. We are flexible and can work with you to create a camping experience that suits your needs. Learn more about this land: Honah Lee Farms has over 140 acres of woods with open fields distributed throughout. We are bordered to the south by the Flat River, to the west by Deep Creek, and to the north by Little Creek. Most of our campsites are nestled in the trees along one of these bodies of water and all campers have access to the 10 foot waterfall area where Deep Creek runs into the Flat River.

Tanglewild

4 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Raleigh, NC

This beautiful spot is tucked away in a secluded private street. It feels like the country, but in the middle of Raleigh suburbs so we are close to all the amenities. There is a small stream running through the backyard and about 4 acres for exploring if you up for it. There are birds, deer, and other wildlife that also call Tanglewild home. This is a great spot if you are passing through, visiting friends for family nearby that don't have space for your RV, or just want to get away from home for a few days but don't really want to go that far away. Amenities are close: RDU (4 miles), RTP (7 miles), Crabtree Valley Mall (4 miles), Umstead (3 miles), Target (1 mile), several grocery stores (1 mile), Falls lake (10 miles), and Brier Creek (4 miles) Note, the spot is a bit tricky to back into. You might need to back down the driveway so take a look before you drive down and get yourself in a tricky spot.

Nurture Nature Village

1 site · Lodging3 acres · Raleigh, NC

Near downtown Raleigh, you can play and rest amidst our 3 acres surrounded by many more acres of natures finest suburban forest paradise. Sit or stroll around a natural pond and bubbling creek, walking trails, and free range chickens beneath 100' oak, maple, and gum trees offering a lush resting place all year around.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

100%

(22)

Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

Fearrington Village, North Carolina

100%

(2)

Eno River State Park

Hillsborough, North Carolina

93%

(8)

Kerr Lake State Recreation Area

Middleburg, North Carolina

William B Umstead State Park

Morrisville, North Carolina

79%

(7)

Falls Lake State Park

Gorman, North Carolina

Camping near Raleigh guide

Overview

Nestled in the heart of North Carolina, Raleigh offers a haven for camping enthusiasts at nearby state parks and serene lakeside destinations. Explore the city and visit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences before immersing in the sprawling wilderness of Umstead State Park. Venture out farther to seek tranquility at Falls Lake State Recreation Area, where shimmering waters invite fishing, paddling, and lakeside relaxation. Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, with its expansive reservoir, offers swimming, boating, and bird-watching for any type of camper. Then choose from a variety of camping options, including waterfront tent campsites, RV parks with hookups, and open-room lodges for covered stays during cold and wet seasons.

Where to go

William B. Umstead State Park

Only 20 minutes from Raleigh is Umstead State Park, where miles of well-maintained trails wind through lush forests and along bubbling creeks. Campers can set up tents in the park's designated pet-friendly campsites near Crabtree Creek, each equipped with fire rings and picnic tables. For more coverage, book a spot at Maple Hill Lodge where all campers need are sleeping bags. Then hike Sal's Branch Trail or Reedy Creek Multi-Use Trail to see the park’s unique chainsaw art along forests and man-made lakes.

Falls Lake State Recreation Area

For a lakeside camping adventure, head to Falls Lake State Recreation Area. Campers can spend the night at on-site campgrounds with over 300 pet-friendly campsites next to Falls Lake and modern amenities like clean restroom facilities and designated swimming areas. Wake up and go fishing for bass, catfish, and sunfish, or paddle along the lake's tranquil coves in a canoe or kayak. Hikers who visit in spring and fall can explore the extensive network of trails and see migrating monarch butterflies, while mountain bikers may want to ride along the renowned Mountains-to-Sea State Trail.

Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

Embrace the beauty of Jordan Lake's expansive reservoir from one of the scenic campgrounds on-site in the recreation area. Each of the 1,000 pet-friendly campsites has convenient access to swimming beaches, boating ramps, and fishing spots for tent campers and RVers alike. Campsites are also equipped with firepits, picnic tables, and restroom facilities—some also have electric and water hookups. Then, explore Jordan Lake Educational State Forest, take a leisurely hike along New Hope Trail, or embark on a bird-watching expedition for bald eagles.

When to go

Raleigh enjoys a mild climate with four distinct seasons. Spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures ranging from 50°F to 70°F as well as vibrant foliage and glimpses of migrating monarch butterflies. Summers invite campers to cool off in the lakes, with temperatures averaging around 80°F to 90°F. Winters near Raleigh see temperatures averaging around 30°F to 50°F, which allow for year-round camping trips to the area.