Interior View of Falls Lake State Recreation Area

Falls Lake State Recreation Area

Tourist attraction State park

Scenic destination for picnicking, hiking & mountain biking, plus beaches, swimming & boat launches. People often mention park, area, Lake, water, lake, Falls, nice, clean, beach, family,


Address

13304 Creedmoor Rd, Wake Forest, NC 27587, United States

Website

www.ncparks.gov

Contact

+1 984-867-8000

Rating on Google Maps

4.70
(8994.2K reviews)


Working Hours

  • Tuesday: 8 am to 5:30 pm
  • Wednesday: 8 am to 5:30 pm
  • Thursday: 8 am to 5:30 pm
  • Friday: 8 am to 5:30 pm
  • Saturday: 8 am to 5:30 pm
  • Sunday: 8 am to 5:30 pm
  • Monday: (Martin Luther King Jr

Visitor Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: park (19) area (19) Lake (18) water (18) lake (17) Falls (17) nice (16) clean (15) beach (13) family (12)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Byron H. 2 years ago on Google
    Out 1st trip here and wow! Very nice, clean campground. All sites in our loop (3, site 102) are very large with a lot of space between sites. You're in the woods which definitely helps keep things cooler. No problem navigating through or getting our 35' TT parked with an F250 that has an 8' bed. Haven't noticed any bug issues either. An easy 58 minute cruise from Burlington NC. If you haven't been here, give it try, you won't be disappointed.
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Harold P. 2 years ago on Google
    This park is a hidden gem 💎 for sure. Plenty of space and covered areas to hold picnics and other functions. Bell shoreline of man-made lake. Check out my pictures and follow me. We had a family gathering there. There were plenty of Rangers driving through out park to keep patrons protected. Check out my pic's too! Ohh yeah, I even caught a snapshot of a Peacock too!
    7 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ashley S. 2 years ago on Google
    Falls Lake State Recreation Area is a rather large area. It was very calming and quiet. I was lucky enough to be able to explore this area without any additional company. Wonderful place for water sports such as paddle boarding and kayaking.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Born T. 3 years ago on Google
    We went to Beaver Beach and it was beautiful to see so many families out enjoying one another. All different races just out and about enjoying nature. No fighting no bickering. Just love and laughter with children voices in air. Shout outs to the young men that work the booth today they were very informative they helped us with information about fishing license. Those young men were very helpful. I would love to come back and bring my children much love from South Carolina 🌹♥️♥️♥️
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Charita M. 2 years ago on Google
    We reserved shelter 14. It was clean and ready for our use. The only issue that we had was there were outlets for electricity but they were not open for use. The view impeccable, close to the fishing pier and the restrooms which was neat and clean (no paper towel access they have hand dryers). Will definitely use again!
    5 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kathleen K. 8 months ago on Google • 311 reviews
    We celebrated Mother's Day in a shelter at Falls Lake. We were right next to the lake, and the shelter was large, attractive and quite well-appointed, with fireplace, tables, grills, waste/recycling containers and plenty of room for our group. Bathrooms were a short walk and there were plenty of trails for those who wanted a hike.

  • 3/5 Sam R. 3 years ago on Google
    Lake and surrounding wilderness is beautiful, but parking is expensive and when I tried to visit they made me turn around because they were only admitting folks with a campsite reservation - some covid thing. Not sure if it’s still like that, but it seems idiotic to restrict people from visiting a huge outdoor space at a time when social distancing is key to preserving public health. So I turned around, drove into the woods off the side of the access road, and went to tour the place aerially using a dji phantom 4 drone Which was fun until I heard the park rangers shouting over a megaphone that my car would be towed if I didn’t retrieve it ASAP So I retrieved the car, after being yelled at by the same guy who had turned me away at the official entrance. At least I got some cool pics, and to my surprise, I did not receive a parking ticket.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Amber B. 1 year ago on Google
    I never knew this place existed!! It was fun & amazing. I enjoyed this area. They have grills, beach, and also other recreational things to do. Parking is only $7 for cars only. The think with vans the price is more. I will be coming back here again. I loved it.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Scott A. 2 months ago on Google • 294 reviews New
    Falls Lake State Recreation Area is a clean, well maintained rustic Campground near Raleigh NC. The sites are gravel, water and power hook up. Our site was #30 in Campground #2. The site was a great deal longer than our camper and tow vehicle. The site was spacious and level. Like most of the sites in CG #2, there is a heavy pine and hardwood tree cover. Site 30 is on a stretch of road where vehicles can pick up some speed approaching the more populated areas. Sites 58 and 65 are very nice water views. Site 66 has some water views. Site 67 is a nice site but no water views. 72, 73 and 74 nice long easy access sites with no water view The somewhat dated bathhouse was clean, well maintained and the hot water was endless. This is a popular campground due to the lake and boat launch, so the area will be busy on nice weekends. The winding roads leading into the campground are easily navigated but are pitch black at night. Raleigh and overpopulated areas nearby for shopping, dining and supplies, but why? We camp to escape that stuff. If you prefer a State Park, Corp of Engineers or BLM park, this is your place. If you like everything close by and amenities, look elsewhere. We highly recommend.

  • 5/5 David S. 2 years ago on Google
    Stayed at the Holly loop with friends. We were moved here by the park due to maintainenace on our reserved location. The sites are long, and vary on how level they are. The swim area on our loop was nice, and our kids had a great time. We were able to get paddle boards and kayaks in the water easily. Couple of nice spots to fish from. Bathouse was clean, but outdated.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Chanchal 1 year ago on Google
    Lovely lake! Scenic place to enjoy the water and nature. It has a park office for maps and information. Around this park there are few more places to visit. If you want to enjoy the beach view go to Sandling Beach. Beaver dam area has a beach too, but I liked relaxing and picnicking time there. The deck at the Falls Lake gives a beautiful view of the lake.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Dorothy B. 1 year ago on Google
    Only 10 minutes out of Raleigh, so worth the drive. A peaceful visit to Falls Lake and park. It’s a Monday after lunch and it was deserted. Saw one boater and one fishermen fishing from the bank, a couple of hikers. The front entrance says $6-7 a carload. Thankfully it was closed and I just drove on through. Otherwise I would have turned around. Seems like there should be some camping areas and more access to the lake for swimming. The parking lot needs replacing but all in all a beautiful, gorgeous 84 degree spring day. *Oops just saw on the map I didn’t drive far enough. There is camping in other areas. Must come back. Bring boat.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kerry M. 11 months ago on Google • 232 reviews
    Outstanding. Very wheelchair accessible even right down to water. Beautiful. Lots of trails and paved ones. BBQ. Pavilions. One with fireplace. Lots of Picnic tables. Clean bathrooms. Outdoor showers. And this was just beaver dam haven't visited other sections yet

  • 5/5 Arpit G. 2 years ago on Google
    A nice place a family picnic. There is a passage that takes you over the small dam sort of. So you sit in the grass and there is water on either side of you. A lot of people come here for fishing. We were shushed a couple of times. It’s a relaxing and laid back place. Where you come and soak in the nature and the sun. For those afternoons when you are looking to be lazy.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 CariAnn W. 2 years ago on Google
    My family and I have spent countless hours out here. Being so convenient yet our just enough, Falls lake has been our boating, camping, fishing, swimming, hiking & even wedding attending stop. Just 15 miles outside of Raleigh makes this a great and easy get away. PLEASE NOTE: Overnight camping requires a reservation so go the parks website to schedule. Not all campsiteSs have drive up options, meaning you have to park then walk to site. Check availability when scheduling your camping trip.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Debra M. 2 years ago on Google
    I have been to all three of the campgrounds at this recreation area and enjoy them all. They are convenient and beautiful. The only downside is that because they are convenient you can hear road noise, although it really isn't that loud. The campground beaches are generally nice.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Muhammad Hasan F. 4 months ago on Google • 145 reviews
    Beautiful place full of nature and tall trees lake area is awesome also saw snakes in the picnic area while we were making bbq.

  • 5/5 Orion P. 1 year ago on Google
    This is my first time at this park. But we have absolutely love it. We camped with friends and the park rangers were good to check on us constantly. Definitely will return.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 MechaniChics L. 1 year ago on Google
    I truck camped in the RV section, which was quiet and relaxed. Met the neighbors when I forgot my lighter, and the bathhouses were clean and bug free. Visited sunset point, the Marina, and the swim beach.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Valerie M. 2 years ago on Google
    This lake is so amazing. Plenty of grills and picnic tables. Even a playground! Swimming area just for the young ones. Beautiful beaches. Trash cans, restrooms, and even showers. Plenty of parking as well.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kai P. 3 years ago on Google
    The park is huge. We were looking for a trail and there are plenty. We went to Beaver Dam and there is a picnic area there and also swimming was allowed as well. There are also a BBQ pit where you can cook out and hang out. We also drove to Sandy Lake across the street and that had a beach to it. The grounds are well maintained and just breathtaking.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Matthew W. 2 years ago on Google
    I'm at site 109 loop 3. I have a 35' 5th wheel and my truck. Total length is 50'. A little tight backing in because of the location of the gated exit too site 109. After parking I probably have another 40 feet of driveway left. Other than that, the site is large and clean. I'm currently plugged into 30amp power using a dog bone adapter because my 5th. Wheel is 50amp. 1st time .doing that and no issues. Nicest potable water hookup I've seen in any park. We are close to boat ramp. I haven't checked out the bathrooms in campground yet.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 S T. 3 years ago on Google
    We went camping here for the weekend. I can't say the weather conditions were the most ideal as it rained most of the time but the facility was a very pleasant experience. The front gate workers were pleasant and it was easy to follow directions to get to our campsite. The sites are spread out enough that you have your own little space amongst other campers. I ran into someone from the camp's clean-up crew. He was friendly. The lake is right there for use by boats or floaties. The restroom facility was about a minute's walk away. I had to go to the grocery store to pick up some food to grill and it was about 15 minutes away. I definitely would go back again.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sherry B. 1 year ago on Google
    So beautiful! So serene! A daytime full of fun and laughter with family and friends and an evening of peace and tranquility. As the weather changes this place becomes more tranquil. Seeing the leaves of different hues of yellow, red, orange and brown soothes my ❤
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Elise M. 5 months ago on Google • 52 reviews
    Our experience at Falls Lake was awesome. We booked a group site for a large gathering of people. It was very quiet & peaceful. Bathrooms were very close to our campsite & the staff were very accommodating to our group. They even gave us a code for the gate for anyone who wanted to leave after they closed. Our friends, who are experienced campers, commented how much nicer it was than other local lake camping sites. We will definitely go back!!

  • 5/5 Emperatriz C. 1 month ago on Google • 33 reviews New
    Es un lugar hermoso, en el cual puedes compartir con tu pareja, amigos y familia.

  • 5/5 Shayeq S. 5 months ago on Google • 19 reviews
    Great spots for family picnics, offering beautiful scenery, plenty of open space, and well-maintained facilities. The lake itself provides a peaceful backdrop, and there are numerous picnic shelters with grill spots everywhere, making it easy to relax and enjoy a meal outdoors. Plus, the trails and water activities add extra fun for the whole family. My kids love Falls Lake parks.

  • 3/5 Delphia M. 2 months ago on Google • 14 reviews New
    A good place to take your dog to run as no people. Not a park.

  • 5/5 Cynthia J. 3 months ago on Google • 13 reviews New
    Beautiful scenery. Walking trails. Nice beach area. Boat launch with dock. Clubhouse with public restroom. Very clean! Picnic area with grill. Covered pavilion available for public use!

  • 4/5 Ameya Prasad J. 3 months ago on Google • 12 reviews New
    Falls Lake Recreation Area is a peaceful oasis within a short drive from Raleigh, making it an ideal destination for families looking for a day of outdoor activities and relaxation. This expansive park features a gorgeous lake surrounded by thick forests and rolling hills, providing an idyllic setting for a range of recreational activities. One of Falls Lake's most notable attractions is its quiet beaches. These calm areas are great for families to spend a day in the sun. Children can splash in the calm seas, make sandcastles, or simply rest on the beach while parents unwind with a nice book or enjoy the peaceful scenery. The beaches are large enough to allow for a variety of activities without feeling crowded, making them an ideal getaway from the rush and bustle. Another notable feature of the recreation area is its wide network of hiking paths. There is something for everyone, with pathways ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous hikes. Families may explore the rich flora and animals, observe wildlife, and enjoy stunning lake vistas. The trails are well-kept, providing a safe and pleasurable experience for all ages. Picnic spaces are distributed throughout the park, complete with tables and grills, making it convenient for families to eat outside. Whether it's a packed lunch or a barbecue feast, the shaded picnic areas make an ideal environment for meeting and spending quality time together. Overall, Falls Lake Recreation Area is a fantastic choice for families wishing to spend time in nature. With its breathtaking beauty, numerous outdoor activities, and family-friendly amenities, it promises to provide a wonderful experience for those who visit. Falls Lake will undoubtedly become a favorite family vacation destination, whether you're swimming, hiking, or simply relaxing by the lake.

  • 5/5 Arthur S. 2 months ago on Google • 9 reviews New
    Campground is clean and well kept. Rangers and staff are friendly and helpful. Problems with 50 amp breaker upon arrival, after hours of course. Used 30 amp until the following morning without issue. Staff showed up early next morning and replaced the 50 amp breaker. Have camped here before and will be back in 2 weeks.

  • 5/5 Bill 1 month ago on Google • 7 reviews New
    Very nice for family or couples

  • 5/5 Alice S. 6 months ago on Google • 5 reviews
    I just love Falls Lake. I visit several times a week even though it is about 20 miles from my house. I find it peaceful. There is usually a very nice breeze. I sit and read, do puzzles on my phone and listen to podcasts while enjoying the many herons, ducks and other wildlife that populates the lake. The beach is very nice and the water is refreshing while never being too cold (like ocean water).

  • 5/5 Cari R. 3 years ago on Google
    Very beautiful Lake. Feels like you're at the beach. Breath taking view of the sun setting. It was very clean and very empty.

  • 5/5 Maria F. 1 year ago on Google
    This entrance is on beaver dam run, the water is warm, and this area is very fresh, is quite and is for family time

  • 5/5 Silvana S. 3 years ago on Google
    We loved this place. We had Brazilian Barbecue with some friends. The Restroom are clean and the place is beautiful.

  • 5/5 Marce S. 3 years ago on Google
    Great place for the whole family. Peaceful picnic spot and trees where you can hang your hammock. The lake swimming space is safe from boats. You should arrive early to get a grill.

  • 5/5 Ashley L. 2 years ago on Google
    stayed at the holly point campground and it was very nice and relaxing. everybody just out enjoying nature in their own world. 😻 their showers are medicore bc u have to continually press down the button to keep it on, and the water is warmish but hey it got the job done lol but overall great campground with trails, boat ramp, swim beach, rec park, dump, etc all you need $7 wood bundles at the front too

  • 5/5 Maria G. 3 years ago on Google
    Wonderful! We reserved a shelter for a small get together baby shower to be COVID compliant. A ranger stopped by to make sure everything was alright during our event. Our dog even attended!!! 😊He was gracious and minimized his impact on our event. We're never disappointed at Falls Lake!

  • 3/5 Ami T. 3 years ago on Google
    Awesome place for One day picnics for people from Greensboro , High point and surrounding areas. Safe place for kids to play around on sand and beach. They have restricted boundaries for swimming area. But no high tides like ocean so small kids can have lot of fun there. Ample amount of parking space, facility for open showers and showers in the restrooms. 3 ratings is because the restrooms and showers don't have lights there so it's difficult with family and specially with small kids to stay beyond sunsets.

  • 5/5 Robert M. 3 years ago on Google
    A great local spot. Hike in only but it's a nice graveled path. Very family friendly.

  • 5/5 Jennifer D. 2 years ago on Google
    Had a great time! Ages 14-41. Some even swam in the frigid water🥶 Weather was gorgeous. 73 degrees on Easter Sunday afternoon. Pretty clean. Grills, picnic tables and playground. Life vests to borrow easily accessible. *****Minus 20 points for showers and spickets not working near the showers rooms. I dont think there are showers in the restrooms.

  • 5/5 Cindy G. 1 year ago on Google
    Love camping at state parks such a fantastic local get away and also close to Zinc Winery so went there too, amazing Wknd in our travel trailer and around the campfire! 🔥

  • 5/5 Lisha H. 1 year ago on Google
    The area is so clean and well kept. the community house is really nice inside with enough room to seat 70 to 80 people comfortably. The park rangers were professional and helpful. I would rent there again!!

  • 5/5 ExteEriority 1 year ago on Google
    Nice little trek from Possum Creek over to six forks; just a little over 4 miles. Had to check the box on my mountain to see trail! Def one of the easier sections!!! Tons of wildlife!

  • 5/5 Kisha S. 1 year ago on Google
    Wish I had more time. There are multiple spots at Falls Lake to enjoy. I saw multiple playgrounds and a ton of places to grill. Clean and very quiet when I visited. I will definitely be back!

  • 5/5 Torrey B. 1 year ago on Google
    Fantastic staff! We arrived in April, along with record rainfall. Staff changed our original reservation to eliminate a potential need to change sites if flooding continued. Can't wait until the planned renovations are completed so we can compare notes on before and after. Beautiful location, I got some of the best photographs of NC at Falls Lake. Playground and picnic area were completely underwater, much to the delight of several families of ducks. Close enough to the city to get a replacement part for our camp stove, far enough away to get beautiful night sky images that show the movement of the stars. Only downside was mowing on Wednesday while I was in the shower.... dust filled the restroom and a second shower was required to wash off the red rivulets from the dust, and I had to switch clothes. Have been backpacking and camping for almost 5 decades, and Falls Lake is in our top 5 near-city campsites. Online reservation ability, phone call reservation ability, free showers, onsite "camp parents", dog friendly, spacious sites, handicap ♿ accessible campsites, restrooms and showers, and quiet hours. Minimal light pollution, lakeside campsites, and nearby boat launch. Centrally located near RTP, RDU airport, NCSU, Duke, UNC, & UNC-G.

  • 5/5 Angie H. 1 year ago on Google
    Nice beach! $7fee for entrance. Many picnic tables, restrooms, and some playground. Recommand! Perfect for kids.

  • 5/5 Angela V. 1 year ago on Google
    Gorgeous. So many trails, swimming and fishing spots, beach area, and phenomenal for kayaking. Very clean restrooms with showers. Each campsite appears to have a fire pit. Highly recommend!

  • 5/5 James Raymond T. 1 month ago on Google • 2 reviews New
    Very quiet

  • 5/5 RS H. 2 months ago on Google • 1 review New
    Nice park


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