What spans across two counties, extends over more than 12,000 acres, and is a haven for nature enthusiasts? It’s not
Makoshika State Park in Montana, despite being severely underappreciated, truly deserves national recognition.
. And it’s not
Carrabelle in Florida as well, which is seen as the entry point to the Gulf from the Panhandle.
This lesser-known treasure is located right down south in the U.S., specifically in North Carolina. Falls Lake offers an ideal setting for bringing along your camping supplies, swimsuits, hiking shoes, and fishing tackle for a delightful short break. Whether you’re on the trails or near the water, every spot provides satisfying views and picturesque scenery.
Unlike initial appearances suggest, Falls Lake is indeed a man-made reservoir formed in 1981. The Army Corps of Engineers constructed the artificial lake with dual purposes: supplying water to the surrounding areas and mitigating flood risks. Naturally, recreational activities soon emerged—local inhabitants eagerly transformed this spot into an outdoor haven for families. Those looking for respite from their daily routines found joy here.
Cary’s fashionable and modern culinary scene
or
Raleigh’s city allure and booming arts community
You can consistently count on Falls Lake for some essential cleansing. After all, having a sanctuary distant from your usual surroundings does wonders for the spirit.
As expected, Falls Lake can be easily accessed from multiple cities within North Carolina. It takes just about 40 minutes to get there from Raleigh, and downtown Durham is under 30 minutes away. If you arrive at the Raleigh-Durham International Airport, even then your journey would take no more than 30 minutes. For those traveling from
The Fourth Ward neighborhood of Charlotte, known for its vintage houses and hidden green spaces,
, you’ve got a more extended journey coming up — precisely two and a half hours.
Read more:
Top Travel Locations for Maximizing Your U.S. Dollars Overseas
Be Ready To Pitch Your Tent at Falls Lake
The premier destination for pitching tents, trailers, and RVs is Falls Lake State Recreation Area, which features more than 300 sites complete with grills perfect for lakeside dining. These campsites are split into two areas: Rolling View and Holly Point. Together, these locations provide 169 spaces equipped with both 50-amp and 30-amp electrical connections. For larger gatherings, reservations allow access to group camping zones at either Rolling View or B.W. Wells, although reaching them requires hiking. Should you prefer driving directly to the site along with your companions, choose Shinleaf; this area accommodates groups of up to 35 individuals across just nine designated spots. Additionally, Shinleaf offers an opportunity for rugged backcountry camping, yet availability here is limited to only 46 slots—so plan ahead accordingly.
Once your accommodations are sorted, diving into the water should be next on your list. Public shores line the entire lake, but if you’re camping overnight at Holly Point, you’ll gain entry to a special beach reserved just for campers. If not, head towards either Beaverdam or Rolling View Recreation Areas. At Rolling View, besides having facilities for launching boats, enabling you to set off in pursuit of fish, you will discover accessible fishing docks here along with those available at Beaverdam. Crappie, largemouth bass, and catfish thrive within Falls Lake; however, ensure you possess a valid fishing permit before attempting to land these species. Additionally, near Rolling View lies a privately-owned marina offering kayak and canoe rentals for exploring the lake’s surface. Alternatively, visit Sandling Recreation Area for some sunbathing amidst tall pine trees and relish tranquil waterside moments.
Remember to also try adventures on land-based activities.
Regardless of whether you’re on bicycle or walking, Falls Lake offers numerous trails that reveal various aspects of the scenery. Obtain a map from either the marina or the visitor center located in Wake Forest to prevent losing your way should mobile reception be unavailable. Cyclists with intermediate abilities might enjoy riding the 2.3-mile West Loop, the 2.2-mile Outer Loop, or even the shorter 1.1-mile Inner Loop Mountain Bike Trails. For those seeking more challenging terrain, consider tackling the demanding courses found within the Drop Zone or South Loop Mountain Bike Trails instead.
When it comes to hiking, you have access to 25 miles of trails where your furry friend can join but must remain on a leash. In addition to cycling through all the designated bike routes, you can enjoy easygoing walks without breaking into a heavy sweat since these paths cater well to newcomers. The Rolling View K.I.P. Track Trail offers a manageable 3/4-mile circular route which you might finish within just one hour. Even when tackling the more substantial Rolling View Trail—a round trip totaling four miles—the exertion required remains relatively light.
No matter what you do, ensure you bring your binoculars along — Falls Lake is a paradise for bird watchers. You could spot woodpeckers clinging to the trees, bald eagles soaring above, and great blue herons close to the lakeshore. Be vigilant for warblers and finches as well when trekking through the woods. Though Falls Lake isn’t typically recognized as such,
top spots for bird watching in the USA
However, it’s located along an important migratory route, making it a resting spot for numerous bird species.
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