Who knew that this huge lake existed?! My native North Carolinian buddy Tim did, apparently! After a bit over an hour long car ride heading east of Winston-Salem, we found ourselves unloading our fishing boat at the dock of B. Everett Jordan Lake. Everyone there was so friendly, quick to wave as you passed them by while zipping over the waters. The beauty of this place - from the flora to the fauna - is breathtaking; perfect location for camping, fishing, swimming and/or water sports fanatics such as myself. Even the wildlife (falcons, cranes, etc.) will stun you.... in the best way! Whatever (ahem) floats your boat, if you're looking for a quiet, serene location to escape the insanity, Jordan lake is definitely it! My friends (seen pictured upon the boat, in the background) didn't believe me when I said I would dive into the deepest end of the lake and swim my way back to shore... so these selfies snapped are proof of my claims! Hopefully, next time we return they'll be brave enough to join me in making a splash!! read more

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There were ample camping/picnicking sites near the water. There was plenty of shade and the sites were clean. read more

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Came here for the shooting stars but didn't see any cuz too many clouds. The sunset was beautiful!!!! It's a big lake with many leisure activities. read more

Jordan Lake - Parks Near Me - Apex, North Carolina

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We checked out four different state parks for some hiking trails when we were in the triangle area for the weekend. This was my least favorite of the four. We did the New Hope Trail and combined the red and blue for a 5.3 mile loop. It was along the shore of the lake for most of it, but you couldn't get much of a view of a lake because of the trees. It was mostly just a walk in the woods. It was relatively flat. If you're a local, this would be a good place to come to get outside in the area. read more

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I Love Jordan Lake camp sites. Go very often but the poision oak is growing on the camp sites. I had to go buy a gigantic tarp to cover the large area of poision oak so my kids, dogs and myself would not brush or step on it. I get it if it's in the woods but on in the campsite! read more

Wow what a wonderful place to go. Went fishing here. They have boats ramps all over also. So many places to fish. During this COVID-19 lockdown. My daughter and I went here to fish. Water was really clean. Did t see much trash. In the main HWY here, there are lots of bait shops. Look for the eagles. read more

Jordan Lake - Parks Near Me - Apex, North Carolina

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Still an amazing place To come and camp especially during the week. Not as many crowds. Love hiking and boating here. read more

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More appropriately known as the Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, this is just one of the many lakes in the NC State Park system. I'm not a huge fan of all of the lakes - I'm simply not a water sports/angling kind of guy. Jordan Lake certainly must be a fun spot for families and kids though. There are beaches throughout the park skirted by large parking lots and picnic shelters. I imagine in the summer it gets very popular and crowded here. I came in late fall and found it so empty, even the park office was closed. In fact it was unusual to me to find that the park office was only open on weekdays during the off-season. It seems more logical to me for it to be open on the weekends. However, they may have a shortage of willing staff to keep the place going on the most convenient times for the general public. I found the Pond Trail at the Seaforth Access Area and hiking a boardwalk with beautiful views of the calm lake through the trees. Passed by a few people fishing here and there. The sun was nice on this cool day. The dense pines always have a calming effect on my soul. The trail came out for a walk along a sandy beach. The park was mostly empty except for folks fishing and one family that came out for a cool picnic and play on a playground. read more

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This is a fantastic place to get back to nature and to connect with those who inspire you. Fun can be had here, regardless of what life outside the lake throws at you. Take a minute to relax, be thankful, and find your joy by the water. read more

Jordan Lake - The wonder of nature - Parks Near Me - Apex, North Carolina

It was nice camping in Jordan lake.. I had my nephew fishing with me and he was under age no licensed needed for that. And the water was so fresh! read more

We have enjoyed this NC State Park for decades. We have watched as its popularity swells along with the Triangle population. During the lean years we have suffered through the budget cuts and years of continual deferred maintenance. Slowly it is making a comeback. This is such a gem, as are all NC State parks, and it is close to RTP. The fact that there is no development of any kind on the lake is absolutely wonderful!!! There are campgrounds along the shoreline. Don't expect restaurants, bars, or any high dollar (any dollar) waterfront properties. It is natural public lands under the management of the NC Division of Parks and Recreation, which exits to inspire each of us through conservation, recreation and education. If you plan to tent or trailer camp I highly recommend making a reservation up to 11 months in advance. Visit https://Nc parks.gov/make-reservation. If you have a boat you can anchor your boat in the water all during your stay. This makes midnight and early sunrise rides so convenient and enjoyable. A number of sites are available without a reservation. Jordan Lake also utilizes campground hosts offering information, firewood, emergency help and family programs--a few Ranger led programs are available too! Our rangers do a great job managing holiday traffic and park overloads. Be mindful, regular routes into the park May close due to maximum capacity being met on weekends or holidays. All NC State Parks prohibit alcohol. If you must, be discrete, behave yourself and use black trash bags in your campsite. Recycling bins and restrooms are available at boat ramps. Respect the land, stay within the campsite borders, don't park your car/truck/boat trailer on the narrow road please, build your fires in the designated pits, clean up after yourself, and relax! read more

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Amazing sunsets and the rangers are super friendly. So far all the other campers have been amazing as well

Jordan lake has quickly become a favorite spot for us since moving to NC earlier this year. The water is wonderful, the park is well kept & the facilities are clean. Camping and parking fees are reasonable & the park also offers a military discount. I do wish there were more trash receptacles throughout the park, as it would motivate other visitors to properly dispose of their refuse, rather than throwing it in the woods or leaving it on the "beach" areas. Jordan lake is the perfect spot to fish, camp, kayak, SUP, etc. or just put up a hammock and relax! We have had the pleasure of visiting 4x over the last few months & we look forward to many more relaxing weekends here! read more

Jordan Lake - Parks Near Me - Apex, North Carolina

Jordan Lake makes me SO happy. It's so close to the triangle and has so much room for every kind of fun - from public access beaches to easily-accessible boat ramps to gorgeous hiking trails. Jordan Lake fully encompasses North Carolina's ability to connect you with nature no matter how close to the city you may be. Jordan Lake is HUGE, so be sure to strategize before you go. There are several beaches, as well as marinas and boat launches. You can use most boats on Jordan Lake, but pontoons, speed boats, and jet skis are probably the most popular. Renting boats is affordable and easy. You can fish on the lake, though I'm not 100% sure what kind of fish you would typically catch. Drinking is technically not allowed, but just don't be obnoxious about it and you should be fine. Pets are allowed, and dogs are very common in the public access beaches. Enjoy! read more

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Great paths and beautiful scenery - there isn't enough parking but it's no wonder it was so popular, go early! read more

Jordan Lake - Parks Near Me - Apex, North Carolina

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We love it here and expect to make it an annual tradition to come in the early fall and enjoy a peaceful weekend of camping, fishing, walking, campfires, meeting nice neighbors. Bathrooms are clean. Sites are large. Pet and child friendly, No wifi but who needs it in such a great location! Spent my birthday here in September 2021. read more

Jordan Lake - Parks Near Me - Apex, North Carolina

Dog Friendly but not on the beach. Great place to stroll around, take a pathway in the woods, just chill and enjoy the sun and breeze. Take the family to one of the many beaches, go boating, hiking a trail ( just make sure you do not get off the trail, spring time copperheads are around ) You will enjoy this day trip , make it a weekend adventure. read more

Jordan Lake - Dogs on a leash are good here. - Parks Near Me - Apex, North Carolina

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This lake is the golden standard for fishing in the Triangle. It's never too crowded, and easy to maneuver in a kayak. Fish attractors are well marked, and there is tons of structure to target bass, crappie, perch, and big ol cats. read more

This is for the poplar point area of Jordan Lake. The 3 stars are because the campsite is beautiful. However, if you are camping in a tent like my friends and I were and need to use the facilites, they were utterly disgusting. I would give -10 stars, if possible. No soap at sinks, overrun with webs, insects and wasps, stained shower curtains. Looks like it hadn't been touched in at least 6 months. Gross, gross, gross. read more

Campgrounds and lake area are nice. But all the bathrooms were closed because of a storm shut the power down. When we talked to the rangers about it, they just shrugged and said we don't know how long they'll be closed. When asked for a temporary solution or getting Porta John's they said oh maybe that'll be a good idea but it won't happen. Low concern for an area concentrated with lots of people and designed to have sanitary facilities. Had to drive to town to use bathroom facilities while staying out here for multiple days read more

I love Jordan Lake, especially Ebenezer Shelter area. Absolutely beautiful! I live approximately 6 miles from the lake & it's the perfect place to throw some food in a basket for a picnic, grab a good book, and relax your mind. It's best you reserve the shelter in advance if grilling (it gets booked fast!) Parking has gone up...again $7 which I don't mind paying to enjoy the beautiful scenery! Helpful hints: Admission/parking: Oct-March-FREE. April( until a certain date) free on weekdays, $7 weekends. May-Sept. $7 everyday. read more

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Great place to hike, camp or take your boat out. We hiked a 2.7 mile loop. Trail was well marked and well maintained. Paper maps available too. There are boat ramps and restrooms as well as grills in the campgrounds. $7 a vehicle on the weekends only. read more

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Jordan lake has something for everyone, hiking, kayaking, boating, fishing and camping. I camp their often. (Well more like Glamping as I'm in a travel trailer). I see eagles just about every time I'm there, along with other wildlife. Fishing is decent and a great way to relax. Facilities are clean. Everyone is friendly from staff to fellow campers and hikers. I kayak often both camping and day trips to the lake. Prices are reasonable. If you do go camping remember it's a state park camp ground not a KOA or resort type campground. Don't expect a ton of amenities. You have 30 or 50 AMP and water hookups, and dump station at each separate camping area. read more

Jordan Lake - Just doing a little fishing - Parks Near Me - Apex, North Carolina

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Clean, well maintained and enjoyable.. lake water is meh, lake water.. but this girl loves any body of water.. enjoy nature and drink life up .. great for paddle boarding, sunning or family BBQ.. love this park read more

Jordan Lake - Benny says the outdoor seating is spectacular .. woof - Parks Near Me - Apex, North Carolina

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Jordan Lake is a excellent park to explore. There's alot of different access points, but a lesser known one is the New Hope Overlook and it's amazing. It's pretty much the southern most access point and you get to by heading south at Wilsonville / HWY 64. Drive all the way in and you'll find a small lot near the restrooms. If you want a great walk / hike in the woods with wonderful views of the lake in spots, this is for you. You enter the trail to the left of the parking lot. You'll have two options... a hike of about 2.5 miles and an extension to that were you go hike that will give you a full 5 mile trek. Be sure to stop at the places that rub along the edge of the lake and don't be afraid to leave the trail to explore the shore. It's gorgeous. Tip for people not use to hiking this area... if you don't like the occasional cobweb, carry a stick or arrive after you're sure someone else has probably been on the trail. read more

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Sunsets over Jordan Lake, (my two 15 sec. timelapse videos I recently made), check them out here: http://instagram.com/p/iPsDzWP8Tt/ http://instagram.com/p/h2DsazP8Zh/ Jordan Lake is the largest lake in the immediate vicinity of Raleigh-Durham. It is only about 20 or 30 minutes away from wherever you are in the Triangle it seems. I have stopped by to catch the sunset over the water (right off highway 751 at the north-northeast end of the lake) a few times. Pull off to the side of the road near the north side of the bridge and climb down to the lake shore near this bridge and catch a sunset. It's nice! Since I recently moved here from the west coast, I miss seeing sunsets over the ocean, so this spot is the closest thing I can find right nearby. My pics on yelp: * http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/jordan-lake-apex?select=d2yTyKEw6NRCMTzspEuZOQ#F_tPEix4cE5p999cFpMjxA * http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/jordan-lake-apex?select=d2yTyKEw6NRCMTzspEuZOQ#uSX52tA_FT5-4yiTg9JTSA * http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/jordan-lake-apex?select=d2yTyKEw6NRCMTzspEuZOQ#gTSvhqYfcBjYHlFDgyCfCQ * http://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/jordan-lake-apex?select=d2yTyKEw6NRCMTzspEuZOQ#Ajn7RFJCYOzyUUkfksA8Ww read more

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Absolutely gorgeous and quiet! We stayed at Parkers Creek Loop 1 campsite #25 which is away from the main park entrance. Perfect for a busy long weekend as you're not in the line to get through from 64 West. Our campsite was perfect. It was sandy and just 30 feet from the water. Nice waterfront view and perfect if you wanted to go kayaking or swimming. We loved it. Showers are free but water pressure is very low in the women's bathroom. Hard to shower with misty like water flow. Took a long time to wash off shampoo and soap. Bathrooms were alot cleaner than other campgrounds we've been to. Must be the campers here at Jordan Lake that keep them clean. Thank you. Firewoods are $5 a bundle at the gate. A great way to support our state parks. Would've stayed longer if mother nature didn't turn on her water works. In all in, we had a great experience. We will return soon! read more

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Me and my wife love coming here to sit by the lake and read a good book on the weekend. Cant wait until we're back at our home away from.home. read more

We love this lake. Great for skiing or tubing. We go as much as we can. There are free ramps but get there early in the weekends. They can be busy read more

This lake is really great, relaxing, fun, and is pretty big too! Thanks to someone who my mom works with who lives in NC, we were able to ride his boat around Lake Jordan, it was a fun experience! read more

I have been out here a few times to go hiking rather than to go to the beach, camping or boating. It is a beautiful forested area with a beautiful lake and various wildlife. There are many trails here and one of my favorites is the New Hope Trail (both the blue and the red loops). This particular trail is listed as a moderate-level trail, which I can understand, both from the length of the trail and the hills. Both loops are almost 8 miles of trail, so pack a lot of water and a snack, because if you are walking at a leisurely pace, you can expect to be there over 2.5 hours. Of the several times that I have been here over the years, I have seen a bald eagle once. As the park website suggests, you see them more often in the early morning hours. I liked coming in the mornings anyway just because it is cooler in the summer months. read more

best spot to have a meeting or take the family! Three kings Tattoo was born on Jordan lakes' shores ! lol well the planning phase

Dogs aren't really allowed in the "beach" area and/or water. That's the only reason we came all the way down , for our dog to play in the water. Besides that point is a pretty nice place to come and spend time with the family . read more

Jordan Lake is always a nice little excursion to just relax, have a picnic/BBQ, take photos or (as it turns out since I did not know of this before) do some hiking. I've always gone out to Jordan Lake to take some really cool sunrise/sunset photos because I love how it looks over the water. If you are going for this too just keep in mind that the scene changes pretty quickly at first sign so make sure your gear is ready to start shooting. As for those trails though... I'm glad I read one of the recent reviews on here about the New Hope Overlook Trail since I was hoping to find new trails in the area. It was a nice trail with a shorter 3 mile loop and a longer 6 mile loop. I'm sure there are a bunch of other trails in the area that you can find but this one was nice. During peak season you have to pay to park your car there - $6 for the day but you can use the pass anywhere in Jordan Lake for that day. I've done it both solo and with my gf and dog and had a great time both times. The first time I did not heed the warning about cobwebs and went at like 8am right when it opened. That meant I was the first one in which also meant the cobwebs were in full force. It was a bit disconcerting but I went the second time just as early and wasn't as bothered by them so I'm sure you get used to them. If this bothers you, probably best you just go closer to 9 or 10am once a few people have gone through and cleared them for ya. The trail is otherwise pretty easy (I've never been on the full 6 mile one) and has a cool opening (the overlook) where you have water access and can see the entire Jordan Lake landscape. It's a pretty cool overlook actually and my dog really enjoyed jumping around in the water since dogs aren't allowed on the normal "beach" area at Jordan Lake. The overlook is tiny though so don't expect much more than a 15-20 foot area. Nonetheless you can get some cool panorama photos, have your pet play around in the water and maybe even get in the water yourself if you want (I didn't). I've never gone camping here since I'm not a camper but there are definitely tons of camp sites and that seems to be a big attraction during the summer months. Otherwise I look forward to going back to Jordan Lake every now and then since it's close enough. I like the Farrington Road route better than the whole 40 to the 64 or whatever it is that Google Maps usually gives you. I think the Farrington Road route is definitely longer but I like driving and it's a cool windy road that you can take all the way there instead of the highway. read more

Jordan lake is man made and built on top of old communities of homes and farms. It was created after flooding disasters. If you would go below water you would apparently see structural foundations still. I came on a grey day late in the year and I'm sure I would have enjoyed the lake more in the summer. It was very isolated and almost no cars or people around, I got a little bit of a horror movie vibe going on. Some parts are quite scenic and you get good views driving over the bridge. read more

Being a child of Smith Mountain Lake, I have some high lake standards. The water quality for swimming is way below anything I'd ever step into. Great for fish, not for my sense of safety. The picnic area we found was clean, shaded and close to the water. It was pleasant. The entire area is a little more crowded than I would prefer, but it's a family area. My lake life is usually a lot more peaceful so it's a change of pace for me to go into something like this. But Seaforth has everything you need for an afternoon picnic for a large or small group. Bathrooms, a decent view of the lake, shade and grills. bring your bug spray and sunscreen! I'm sure I will have a lot more to write about this lake in the future, especially if I catch a 10lb+ bass out of here. read more

I'm not sure if the many coastal yelpers who attended my CMYE here have yet gotten over their forced introduction to ::dunh dunnh dunnnnh:: ... lake water. I'll admit the day we went it was looking a little murkier than usual. And generally, I'm not a fan of immersing my full body in something you can't see clear to the bottom. (Except if it were crab bisque. I would swim in crab bisque.) But if you stay shallow, and soak in moderation, it seems pretty non-threatening. Best to go in the months that skirt July-August, since the lake is always packed with families (and kids) at that time -- making the water potentially more hazardous. I love that they've added a sandy embankment to this lake, so you can have a taste of a beach excursion without the commute commitment. Lots of picnic tables scattered throughout shaded areas. There's also a shelter for rent (be warned: it books up fast!) and a volleyball court. Parking will run you -5, so spend the day. read more

My boyfriend and i decided to take a drive to the lake since raleigh had a brief spring warm up. As we pulled around and found and parking spot i was taken away by how beautiful it was. The lake itself was like a gift to the eyes. We stood near the shoreline and stared into the waves as though it were a painting from the heavens. After we got lost in our thought we decided to walk a few of its various trails. The trails were man made from constant hikers , although i was a little apprehensive about walking through there were several signs marked on trees so that you knew you were still kn the trail. There are plenty of shelters to accommodate groups (some with fireplaces) and also picnic tables scattered throughout. Great place to go fishing or just for a relaxing walk. I will return soon so that i can explore the rest of the beautiful scenery read more

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Good facilities and plenty of spaced apart picnic tables interspersed between shade trees. The increased entrance fees bite a bit, but I guess every state is suffering through this economic downturn....so I'll suck it up for the state. I'm a bit biased - I don't like lakes (much less man made ones) unless they're located in alpine wilderness areas with nice mountainous views...hot, muggy and sweltering on a summer day doesn't translate well for me as it was the day we visited. I'd rather have cool temps, high elevation and less crowded areas to hike through. BUT....for large groups, families and an easy day trip from the Triangle, this place will do just fine. Good facilities like grills, a reservable sheltered picnic area, sand volleyball pit, lake swimming, showers, and plenty of parking make this lake accessible for everyone. If i had a kayak or canoe, this might be a more entertaining spot by itself. Otherwise, bring friends and family to sit, relax and chill by the "beach". read more

I decided to come to Jordan Lake on a toasty day. Beautiful beaches and great scenic views! Lots of water sport options! Good to bring the kids and also some nice quiet beaches. I went to Ebenezer Church Recreation area. read more

Jordan Lake - Beautiful beach at Jordan Lake - Parks Near Me - Apex, North Carolina