Jordan Lake State Recreation Area
About
Jordan Lake State Recreation Area is a family paradise spanning over 14,000 acres with sandy beaches, crystal-clear swimming areas, and endless water activities just minutes from Apex. With multiple access points, kayaking adventures, gentle hiking trails, and designated swim beaches, it's the perfect escape for families seeking outdoor fun without the long drive to the coast.
Highlights
- ✓Sandy swimming beaches with lifeguards on duty during summer months
- ✓Kayak and paddleboard rentals for family water adventures
- ✓Easy to moderate hiking trails with lake views perfect for little legs
- ✓Large grassy picnic areas with grills and shade pavilions
- ✓Excellent birdwatching opportunities,kids love spotting bald eagles and ospreys
Pro Tips
- 1.Arrive early on summer weekends,parking lots at popular beaches like Ebenezer fill up by 10 AM during peak season
- 2.Bring water shoes as some beach areas have rocky or pebbly sections that can be tough on little feet
- 3.Visit the Vista Point area for the best toddler-friendly shallow water and calmer swimming conditions away from boat traffic
- 4.Pack your own food and drinks in a cooler,there are excellent shaded picnic areas but limited food vendors on-site
- 5.Rent kayaks or paddleboards from the seasonal concessions to explore hidden coves that kids find magical
Best Time to Visit
Weekday mornings during summer (9-11 AM) offer the best experience with smaller crowds and cooler temperatures. Spring and fall are ideal for hiking and picnicking without the summer heat, though swimming is best June through September.
What to Know
Daily vehicle entry fee is $7 per car (NC residents) or $10 (non-residents), with annual passes available. Multiple parking areas serve different beaches and trails. No food vendors at most locations, so pack a cooler and plenty of water.
Seasonal Notes
Swimming season runs Memorial Day through Labor Day with lifeguards on duty. Some facilities close or have reduced hours in winter months. Spring brings beautiful wildflowers along trails, while fall offers stunning foliage. The lake is popular for fishing year-round.
Nearby Eats
Salem Street Pub in Apex (10 minutes away) offers great burgers and a kids menu in a casual atmosphere. For post-lake treats, head to Howling Cow Ice Cream in downtown Apex for locally-made flavors that kids devour.
More Activities Near Apex
Baucom Blueberries
Baucom Blueberries offers families a quintessential pick-your-own fruit experience in a peaceful farm setting near Apex. Kids get hands-on learning about where their food comes from while enjoying the excitement of harvesting their own fresh blueberries straight from the bushes.
Apex Nature Park Disc Golf Course
Apex Nature Park offers families a perfect blend of active recreation and nature exploration on 117 acres. While the disc golf course is the main attraction, kids will love splashing in the creek, hiking the wooded trails, and discovering wildlife in the natural areas. The scenic setting makes it ideal for families who want to combine outdoor sports with unstructured nature play.
Apex Community Park (Lake Trail Entrance)
Apex Community Park is a sprawling outdoor destination that checks all the boxes for family fun in the Triangle area. With multiple playgrounds catering to different age groups, a popular splash pad for hot days, and miles of scenic walking trails around the lake, this park offers something for every family member whether you're looking for active play or a peaceful nature walk.
The Scoop at Willow Oak Farms
The Scoop at Willow Oak Farms is a delightful local ice cream destination where families can enjoy hand-dipped ice cream in a charming farm setting. Located just outside Apex in Fuquay-Varina, this beloved spot combines the nostalgia of an old-fashioned ice cream parlor with the appeal of a farm atmosphere, making it more than just a dessert stop,it's a fun family outing.