Camping continues to be a major attraction at Jordan Lake, drawing thousands for overnight stays.
Pitch your tent or park your trailer or recreational vehicle (RV). Jordan has tent sites (both electric and non-electric), group and primitive camping with more than 1,100 sites available.
What we’ve learned since the pandemic is to sign up early for a campsite as camping is booming at Jordan Lake and other state parks, especially on holiday weekends.
Tent camping with water/electricity is the most popular category, followed by non-electric tent sites, group camping, walk-in primitive camping. Seniors 62+, veterans get a camping discount. Wheelchair accessible campsites are available at each location.
Find and book a campsite online at northcarolinaparks.reserveamerica.com, or call 1-877-722-6762. Remember all campsites are not the same. They may have different amenities. For example, loops at Poplar Point and Crosswinds have upgraded electrical outlets (50 amps). Check the reservation website for photos and key site details, like cost, distance from the shoreline, showerhouse, handicap access, etc. A $3 surcharge is added for reservations. All the electric sites have water. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash. Bring your own boat and water toys. Checkout time is 3 p.m.
Poplar Point is Jordan’s largest camping area (579 sites over seven loops), Parkers Creek probably has the best beach area. Vista Point is the smallest (50 sites), mostly RV camping, and probably the quietest. It’s also a popular area for sailing and kite-flying, though many consider Poplar the best for sailing due to usually good wind conditions.
During the summer weekends are busy and holidays off the chart, making midweek camping trips a popular option year-round.
Reservations must be made at least 24 hours in advance. Holiday weekends have different rules requiring longer stays. Full payment is required when reservations are made. Walk-up camping reservations can be made at the park office (Visitor Center GPS:35.7355, -79.0165) off US 64 near the bridge on a first-come-basis. Hours are 8-4:30 daily through October. Questions? Call the park office 919-362-0586.