Family Attractions

Camping & Outdoor Stays

Plan camping trips around Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill with family-friendly sites.

Kerr Lake State Recreation Area

4.7
(1,737 reviews)

6254 Satterwhite Point Road, Henderson, NC, 27537

Experience the natural beauty of Kerr Lake State Recreation Area, spanning two counties along the Virginia border. This 50,000-acre reservoir paradise features eight access areas with multiple boat ramps and hundreds of campsites. Enjoy premium fishing in one of the East Coast's top lakes, along with modern amenities including community buildings and beach access. Camping options range from basic tent sites to full-service RV hookups, with fees from $15 to $145 nightly.

🚘 Distance: 186.2 miles away

Lake Michie Park and Marina

2802 Bahama Road Bahama, NC 27503

Lake Michie Boathouse is located within Lake Michie Park and Marina in Bahama, NC, offering a range of outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and picnic areas. Visitors can enjoy largemouth bass fishing and rent motorboats, canoes, and kayaks to explore the scenic lake. The facility features ADA-accessible amenities, such as a boathouse, dock, and canoe/kayak launch. The lake is open seasonally from mid-March to early November and provides a peaceful environment for outdoor recreation. Additionally, campsites are available in the nearby Spruce Pine Lodge and Holly Grove areas for those seeking a more immersive nature experience.

🚘 Distance: 212.2 miles away

Falls Lake State Recreation Area

13304 Creedmoor Rd., Wake Forest, NC, 27587

Escape to tranquility at Falls Lake State Recreation Area, spanning 26,000 acres of pristine woodland surrounding a 12,000-acre lake. This outdoor paradise offers seven distinct recreation areas perfect for camping, boating, swimming, and hiking. The park features segments of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail and provides excellent opportunities for environmental education. Modern campground facilities accommodate various camping styles, with nightly rates starting at $26.

🚘 Distance: 219.2 miles away

Dead Broke Farm

4.5
(1,455 reviews)

6921 Wildlife Trail, Raleigh, NC, 27613

Experience authentic horseback riding at Dead Broke Farm, where passion meets expertise. Our facility offers guided trail rides, Western-style lessons, and unique programs including summer camps and birthday celebrations. We specialize in creating accessible riding experiences for enthusiasts who can't own horses, while maintaining our mission of horse rescue and rehabilitation. Our diverse services extend to horse boarding, sales, and special events.

🚘 Distance: 223.5 miles away

William B. Umstead State Park

4.8
(2,417 reviews)

8801 Glenwood Ave., Raleigh, NC, 27617

Escape to William B. Umstead State Park, a natural haven minutes from downtown Raleigh. This urban oasis features extensive hiking and multi-use trails weaving through pristine forest. Three manmade lakes provide excellent fishing opportunities, while multiple picnic areas and camping facilities offer various outdoor recreation options. The historic Maple Hill Lodge provides a unique rustic overnight experience in a serene natural setting.

🚘 Distance: 228.6 miles away

North Carolina State Fairgrounds Campground

4.5
(512 reviews)

801 Youth Center Drive, Raleigh, NC, 27607

Find convenient RV accommodations at the Fairgrounds, offering over 350 full-service hookup sites. This first-come, first-served facility provides water, sewer, and electrical access (30-50 amps) for stays up to 14 days. With 250 sites split between the main campus and State Fair Campground, visitors enjoy easy access to local attractions. On-site security ensures 24/7 assistance, with dump station services available for both overnight and day use.

🚘 Distance: 234.3 miles away

The Matthews Campground

4.3
(19 reviews)

7625 Lake Wheeler Road, Raleigh, NC, 27603

Discover peaceful RV camping at Matthews Campground, conveniently located just minutes from Raleigh, Cary, Garner, and Fuquay-Varina. This quiet retreat features well-maintained gravel pads equipped with full hookups, including 30/50 amp electrical service, water, and sewer connections. The strategic location offers a perfect balance of tranquility and accessibility to urban amenities.

🚘 Distance: 242.0 miles away

Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

4.7
(2,192 reviews)

280 State Park Road, Apex, NC, 27517

Discover Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, a magnificent outdoor destination featuring seven access points across Chatham County. The park offers over 1,000 diverse campsites, excellent boating facilities, and pristine swimming areas. Home to a thriving bald eagle population, the park provides unique wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors enjoy comprehensive amenities including boat rentals, picnic shelters, and educational facilities. Seasonal entrance fees apply, with free off-peak access.

🚘 Distance: 243.7 miles away

Dan Nicholas Park

4.7
(1,897 reviews)

6800 Bringle Ferry Road, Salisbury, NC, 28146

Explore Dan Nicholas Park, a 330-acre recreational haven established in 1968. This family-friendly destination offers diverse attractions including a scenic campground, peaceful lake, classic carousel, train rides, gem mining, nature center with aquarium, and animal habitats. Enjoy free admission to many park features, making it perfect for memorable family outings.

🚘 Distance: 283.4 miles away

Oconaluftee Visitor Center

4.8
(7,630 reviews)

Oconaluftee Visitor Center, 1194 Newfound Gap Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located along the border of North Carolina and Tennessee. It is renowned for its rich biodiversity, ancient mountains, and cultural history, making it the most visited national park in the U.S. The park offers stunning scenic views, hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and opportunities to explore Southern Appalachian culture. Visitors can experience attractions like Cades Cove, waterfalls, backcountry camping, and the famous synchronous fireflies event.

🚘 Distance: 402.2 miles away