Looking for a quick, easy outing for your family this Labor Day or over fall break? We’re exploring what’s wonderful about North Carolina lakes and which ones we love for a weekend, a day trip or even a quick afternoon break.
The traditional school summer is eternally long. Let’s be honest, the end of August can be real drudgery when it comes to entertaining kids who have been out of school for literal MONTHS. It’s hot, they’re bored and you’re out of ideas… and money.
That’s exactly where I found myself with my three kids this summer. Simply out of ideas and, with the prices associated with just living these days, looking for anything to do with a low price tag.
Enter some half-hearted inspiration – we could just drive to the lake… they’ll probably be bored… at least it’s something…
This isn’t the kind of day we usually think of when we talk about travel or what you’ll see on many family travel blogs. There’s no itinerary. No famous attractions, reservations or Trip Advisor.
We’re just at the lake.
And somehow, just being at the lake was exactly what my kids needed. We spent hours walking state land, swimming, digging in the red North Carolina clay and crafting artwork, snacking and throwing a ball around. Nothing fancy, but at the end of the day my 8-year-old declared it was “one of the best days of my life.”
High praise and a gentle reminder that kids don’t need the fancy, perfect, expensive days away that we sometimes think they do. There’s plenty of space in childhood for perfectly ordinary outside adventures.
Today we’re sharing five reasons you should visit an NC lake on your next day off and five NC lakes (plus one bonus) that you should consider for your adventure.
Reasons to visit an NC lake for your next family getaway:
1. Affordability
State managed lakes (like Kerr, Falls & Jordan) charge small fees during summer season and on weekends. Expect $10 per vehicle for using boat ramps, swimming beaches and picnic facilities. The pass is good for an entire day. If you avoid these peak times, your entry is free. It’s also possible to hike in or find non-managed swimming spots to avoid parking fees. In my opinion, $10 for a family of five (or whatever size you can fit in your car) is a steal, but you can read all about rates and days they are in effect here.
2. Accessibility
For the many of us living in central NC, lakes are an easy 30 minute drive from our home. Venture further to see some of those beautiful mountain lakes for a longer day trip, maybe on an upcoming teacher work day or fall break day. But, if you’re short on time, those central NC lakes are a real prize.
3. Exploration
Beyond managed facilities, there is so much to explore in these lakes. Trails abound, allowing you to strike out in search of your own spot on the lake. Several of our favorite lakes are state parks, meaning the lake shore itself is public land. My kids love nothing more than finding a secluded spot to make all their own.
4. Simplicity
Ultimately, a day at the lake can be as simple as you want it to be. Pack up some sandwiches, grab some towels and sunscreen and you’re good to go. Of course, you can also dress it up with floats, beach toys or even kayaks/paddleboards. It’s completely up to you and what you have access to.
5. Peace
A full day outside in nature is just what kids need after these first weeks back to school. Give their minds a chance to explore, imagine and create crazy games to entertain themselves (and you) and their bodies plenty of time running around and swimming. They’ll be content and tired by the end of the day.
Our Favorite NC Lakes:
1. Kerr Lake
Straddling the North Carolina/Virginia border, Kerr Lake is only about an hour away from the Raleigh-Durham area. Head to the State Recreation Area to do some overnight camping right by the water (book a camping site for around $25 a night).
The Hibernia access point is great for swimming, boating, and a wonderful view of the lake. Satterwhite Point also offers bathrooms, a playground, and a handicap accessible beach.
Steele
2. Lake James
A beautiful lake off of I-40 heading towards Asheville, visiting Lake James gives you and your kids a chance to see a new part of the state. We have detoured here for an afternoon swim when making the drive to the western part of the state. The water is beautiful and I would love to make an entire day out of playing at this lake.
3. Falls Lake
It’s just so close to Raleigh and Durham that it has to be included on the list. The site of my 8-year-old’s best day, we like to head to Rolling View State Recreation Area. We always find it quiet, with plenty of picnic tables and places to hang in the shade. Holly Point and Shinleaf provide additional camping options. Check out Sandling Beach and Beaverdam for swimming beaches. Blue Jay Point County Park sits on Falls Lake and has provided hours of entertainment for my kids, with playgrounds, hiking trails and lake access side by side.
4. Lake Lure
Another day trip kind of lake, Lake Lure is now open again after the Hurricane Helene disaster that plagued western NC a few summers ago. The lake is lovely, but also go to explore the surrounding small towns, which are busy rebuilding and could surely use the support! This area is pure NC gold.
5. Jordan Lake
Close to Durham and Chapel Hill, give Jordan Lake a try the next day you’re looking for something to do with the kids. Ebenezer Church Access and White Oak Access are both located in Apex, while Parkers Creek Access is located in Chapel Hill.
6. BONUS – Lake Watauga
I’m cheating with this one, but it’s probably my favorite spot on the list. This lake is complete beauty. Sitting just over the border with Tennessee, you’ll love the Appalachian vibes. It’s a drive, so I recommend booking a campsite and making a laid back weekend out of it. We love Cardens Bluff campground, which has incredible views over the lake. The hiking in the area is not to be missed.
At the end of our most recent lake day, my two boys had created over 75 (!) of these clay creations. They were thrilled to launch all 75 of them onto the shore to see how they would explode. As we left my son told me, “I’m really proud of the work we did here today.” Making mud balls. That’s the magic of nature, y’all. That’s the magic of the lake. Here’s hoping we can all give our North Carolina lakes some love this year. Let’s get out there!
Looking for more things to do in NC this fall?
Best North Carolina Parks Near RDU
