The Most Popular Activities on Lakes Around Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina
The Raleigh-Durham area, nestled in the heart of North Carolina’s Research Triangle, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts thanks to its stunning array of lakes. From sprawling reservoirs to compact urban escapes, these bodies of water offer endless possibilities for adventure, relaxation, and family fun. The lakes surrounding Raleigh-Durham, like Jordan Lake, Falls Lake, Lake Wheeler, Shearon Harris Reservoir, and Lake Crabtree, boast a variety of popular activities that draw locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re into water sports, fishing, sightseeing, or just cruising the waves, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into the most beloved ways to enjoy these aquatic gems!
- Water Sporting Activities: Thrills on the Waves
The lakes around Raleigh-Durham are a playground for water sports lovers, offering everything from high-octane thrills to gentle paddling. Each lake’s size, accessibility, and regulations shape the sporting scene, making this region a hotspot for aquatic adrenaline.
Jet Skiing and Water Skiing
For those craving speed, Jordan Lake and Falls Lake are top picks. Jordan’s vast 13,940 acres provide ample room for jet skiing and water skiing, with boat ramps like Poplar Point making it easy to launch. Falls Lake, with its 12,410 acres, is another favorite—Holly Point and Shinleaf areas are perfect for cutting through the water on skis or a wakeboard. Lake Wheeler, closer to Raleigh, is a compact 650-acre option where water skiing and tubing are popular, with rentals available in summer for spontaneous fun. Shearon Harris Reservoir (4,100 acres) also allows motorized sports, offering a quieter alternative with plenty of space to carve the waves.
Kayaking and Paddle-boarding
If you prefer a slower pace, kayaking and paddle-boarding shine at every lake. Lake Crabtree (520 acres) in Morrisville is a gem for non-motorized sports—its calm waters and rental options make it ideal for beginners. At Falls Lake, the Beaverdam Recreation Area bans gas motors, creating a peaceful paddling paradise surrounded by forest. Jordan Lake’s coves and Lake Wheeler’s shoreline are also great for exploring by kayak, while Shearon Harris offers a wilder, less crowded paddle with its undeveloped edges.
Sailing
Sailing enthusiasts flock to Lake Crabtree, where small sailboats glide across the surface, often launched from the park’s boat ramp. Jordan Lake and Falls Lake also support sailing, with their larger expanses accommodating bigger boats and longer outings. The steady breezes and scenic backdrops make these lakes a sailor’s delight.
- Sights to See: Nature and Beyond
The lakes around Raleigh-Durham aren’t just about action, they’re also a feast for the eyes. From wildlife to landscapes, sightseeing here is a major draw for those who love to soak in the scenery.
Wildlife Watching
Birdwatchers and nature lovers have plenty to marvel at. Jordan Lake is famous for its bald eagles, ospreys, and herons, especially visible from the Jordan Lake Educational State Forest trails. Falls Lake offers similar thrills, with turtles, deer, and waterfowl popping up along its 280 miles of shoreline—Beaverdam is a prime spot for quiet observation. Shearon Harris Reservoir feels like a step into the wild, with foxes, deer, and hawks frequenting its wooded edges. Even Lake Crabtree, near the airport, surprises with ducks and turtles along its trails.
Scenic Landscapes
The views alone are worth the trip. Jordan Lake dazzles with its rolling hills and expansive waters, especially at sunset from Vista Point. Falls Lake pairs hardwood forests with rocky outcrops, creating postcard-worthy vistas from Sandling Beach. Lake Wheeler offers a unique urban twist—catch glimpses of Raleigh’s skyline while surrounded by woods. Shearon Harris keeps it raw and natural, with minimal development enhancing its tranquil beauty. Lake Crabtree adds an industrial edge, with planes soaring overhead as you gaze across the water.
Trails and Lookouts
Many lakes pair their water views with land-based exploration. Falls Lake’s 25 miles of hiking trails wind through forests, while Jordan’s Educational State Forest offers educational stops with scenic overlooks. Lake Wheeler’s paved greenway is perfect for a leisurely bike ride, and Lake Crabtree’s 5-mile trail loops the lake for a full-circle view.
- Best Cruising Spots: Glide and Unwind
Cruising on a boat—whether a pontoon, motorboat, or sailboat—is a quintessential lake activity around Raleigh-Durham. These waters offer some of the best spots to kick back and enjoy a ride.
Jordan Lake
With over 180 miles of shoreline, Jordan Lake is the king of cruising. Launch from Poplar Point or Vista Point and drift past coves, beaches, and forests. The sheer size means you can cruise for hours, with sunset trips being a local favorite for their golden-hour glow.
Falls Lake
Falls Lake’s 280 miles of shoreline make it another cruising haven. Rolling View Marina is a popular starting point for a leisurely ride, though the Beaverdam area restricts motors for a quieter sail or paddle. The wooded surroundings keep it peaceful and picturesque.
Lake Wheeler
Closer to the city, Lake Wheeler’s two piers make it easy to hop on a pontoon or small motorboat for a quick cruise. Its 650 acres are compact enough to explore fully in an afternoon, with the Raleigh skyline adding a cool backdrop.
Shearon Harris Reservoir
For a serene cruise, Shearon Harris is unbeatable. Its two boat ramps and minimal boat traffic let you glide through undisturbed waters, surrounded by pristine forest. It’s the perfect spot to escape the crowds.
Lake Crabtree
Small but mighty, Lake Crabtree’s boat launch supports sailing and gentle cruising by kayak or canoe. The calm waters and proximity to urban life make it a convenient unwind spot.
“A bad day of fishing is better than a good day at work.” – Unknown
- Types of Fishing: Reel in the Fun
Fishing is a cornerstone of lake life in the Raleigh-Durham area, with each lake offering unique catches and vibes. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a casual caster, there’s a spot for you.
Largemouth Bass
The region’s lakes are bass heaven. Shearon Harris Reservoir is legendary for its largemouth bass, 7-pounders are a real possibility, thanks to its warm waters and abundant cover. Jordan Lake and Falls Lake also deliver, with bass lurking in coves and around submerged structures. Lake Wheeler and Lake Crabtree offer smaller but reliable bass hauls, perfect for a quick trip.
Crappie and Catfish
Jordan Lake excels for crappie and catfish, with anglers casting from boats or the shore. Falls Lake is another crappie hotspot, though some say overfishing has thinned the herds. Lake Wheeler keeps it simple with catfish aplenty, while Shearon Harris adds channel catfish to the mix.
Specialty Catches
Each lake has its quirks. Falls Lake holds the state record for white perch (nearly 3 lbs!), while Jordan’s striped bass add variety. Lake Crabtree’s sunfish and bluegill are great for kids or beginners, and Shearon Harris occasionally surprises with hybrid striped bass.
Fishing Tips
Shore fishing is big at all five lakes, with piers and docks at Wheeler and Crabtree making it accessible. Boats open up more options; Jordan and Falls have multiple ramps, and Shearon Harris even offers a Tackle Loaner Program. Spring and Fall are peak seasons, though year-round fishing is viable with the right gear.
- Family Fun: Activities for All Ages
Beyond sports and fishing, these lakes are packed with family-friendly fun that keeps everyone smiling.
Swimming and Beaches
Jordan Lake leads with seven swim beaches (like Seaforth), while Falls Lake offers five (Sandling Beach is a fave). Lake Wheeler has a designated swimming area with a sandy shore, perfect for little ones. Shearon Harris and Crabtree skip official swimming but allow wading in shallow spots.
Picnicking and Playgrounds
Picnic shelters dot every lake—Jordan and Falls have hundreds of campsites too. Playgrounds at Wheeler, Crabtree, and Harris keep kids busy, while Jordan and Falls add volleyball courts and trails for extra fun.
Camping and Hiking
Overnight stays are big at Jordan Lake (1,000+ sites) and Falls Lake (300+ sites), blending lake time with campfire vibes. Hiking trails at all five lakes, especially Falls and Crabtree, offer family-friendly treks with great views.
Wrapping Up: Your Lake Adventure Awaits
The lakes around Raleigh-Durham are a treasure trove of activities, from jet skiing and fishing to cruising and sightseeing. Whether you’re shredding waves on Jordan Lake, spotting eagles at Falls, or paddling quietly at Crabtree, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy these waters. Grab your gear, pack a picnic, and head out…your perfect lake day is calling!
