Falls Lake
RV Guide
Introduction
Spread across the counties of Durham, Wake and Granville in North Carolina, Falls Lake is a 12,410 acre (50 km2) reservoir that extends 28 miles (45 km) up the Neuse River. In addition to offering opportunities for recreation, Falls Lake also provides drinking water for some of its surrounding communities, to include the city of Raleigh. The lake also helps with flood control and is a home for wildlife.
Before Falls Lake was constructed, between 1978-1981, significant damage was caused to public and private properties as a result of the Neuse River flooding. Roads, railroads, industrial sites, and farmlands were all impacted. The lake, which is surrounded by 25,500 acres of public land, is managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers.
A visit to Falls Lake is ideal for those looking for recreation opportunities involving water. Not only is there lots to do on and in the water, but the surrounding public land and nearby communities offer additional opportunities for enjoyment. When planning your next RV adventure, take a look at Falls Lake, and all the lake and the area have to offer.
RV Rentals in Falls Lake
Transportation
Driving
From Durham, take NC-98 E/Holloway St. for 5.1 miles (8.2 km) to Baptist Rd. Turn left onto Baptist Rd and continue for 4.1 miles (6.59 km) Continue for .3 miles (.48 km) on Baptist Route, which will turn slightly to the right. Proceed for about one mile (1.6 km) until you reach Falls Lake.
Parking
Parking is available around Falls Lake.
Public Transportation
Public transportation is not available to Falls Lake.
Campgrounds and parking in Falls Lake
Campsites in Falls Lake
Reservations camping
Holly Point
The largest campground on Falls Lake is Holly Point, which has more than 85 campsites with water and electric hook-ups, and over 40 primitive sites. Some sites are right on the water while others include views of the lake. The campground includes two swimming areas and access to a hiking trail for exploring. A dump station is present within the campground, along with a bathhouse, boat ramp, playground, and restrooms. Each site has a picnic table, grill, and fire pit and the campground can accommodate RVs and trailers that are up to 75 feet long. Holly Point is a peaceful campground with beautiful views; a perfect base for exploring the lake!
Rolling View
Falls Lake’s second-largest campground, Rolling View offers more than 50 campsites with water and electric hook-ups as well as more than 30 primitive sites. The Rolling View area is known for excellent hiking trails, including a part of the well-known Mountains-to-Sea-Trail. Fishing piers are nearby, along with the Rolling View Marina, and a nice beach for swimming. With a maximum RV and vehicle length of 100 feet, Rolling View Campground can accommodate the largest of recreation vehicles. Restrooms and showers are available at the campground, and each site offers a fire pit, grill, and picnic table. Rolling View Campground is a great place to relax after a full day of fun.
Shinleaf
When planning to hike around Falls Lake, consider camping in the Shinleaf Area, which offers primitive campsites that are hike-in only. The Shinleaf Area also offers group sites for those that are planning an overnight stay with a larger number of people. While it may require some effort to get to the sites, you will be rewarded with privacy and beautiful views of the lake. Most of the campsites offer a fire pit, grill, and picnic table. The area includes a canoe launch point, making it an ideal spot for those who want to spend some time on the water.
Seasonal activities in Falls Lake
Off-Season
Go Fishing
A popular way to spend time at Falls Lake is to go fishing. Anglers are attracted to Falls Lake for multiple reasons. First, there are plenty of different fish to be caught, including bass, bluegill, catfish, and crappie. There are also many artificial reefs and fish shelters at the lake along with ongoing stocking programs. The scenery and peace and quiet that the area offers is also a draw for those looking to cast a line. Fishing at Falls Lake is a great way to relax and see what you can reel in!
Visit Winterpast Farm
Close to Falls Lake is Winterpast Farm, a ten-ace family farm that includes an animal sanctuary where goats, sheep, emu, a mini donkey, multiple types of ducklings, peacocks, a goose, pigs, bunnies, guinea pigs and chickens have a place to call home. Visitors can enjoy the outdoors while learning about and visiting with the resident animals. Make sure to visit the farm’s website to learn about scheduling your visit!
Visit The Factory
The Factory is located on the Franklin side of the town of Wake Forest. Known as The Factory at Franklin, it is an indoor fun park that appeals to kids AND adults. There is a trampoline court where you can jump and flip as you like. There is also an arcade hall that has plenty of arcade games, including vintage machines. And of course, there are restaurants so that you can fill your belly after (or before) all of that fun! The Factory at Franklin is perfect for indoor adventure in the area.
In-Season
Visit Falls Lake State Recreation Area
Falls Lake State Recreation Area has seven accessible areas that are spread around the shoreline of Falls Lake, a 12,000-acre reservoir. The Recreation Area has a lot to offer, to include more than 300 campsites, five swim beaches, boat ramps (some only for paddlers and boats not powered by gas), mountain biking trails and a network of hiking trails. With its many opportunities for outdoor recreation, there is something for everyone at Falls Lake Recreation Area.
Go for a Swim
There is a dedicated swimming area at Falls Lake that is ideal for cooling off and having fun in the water. The swimming area has life guards on duty who are able to keep an eye out in case anyone needs any assistance. You can plan to spend the day swimming or include a stop at the swimming area among any other fun you have planned at the lake. Visitors of all ages will enjoy a dip in the refreshing water!
Spend Time on the Lake
Boating is a popular thing to do at Falls Lake. You can bring your own or rent the vessel of your choice. Pontoon boats are popular to rent to explore the lake, as well as fishing boats. For those looking to traverse the lake under their own power, kayaks and canoes are ideal watercraft to take out. If you are looking for a faster-paced experience, you can also rent a jet ski. Fortunately, Falls Lake offers numerous options to explore the lake at the pace that you choose!
