North Carolina has over 2,000 lakes and reservoirs. And Durham has access to some of the best.
Natural gems like Falls Lake, Jordan Lake, and Kerr Lake are the top recreation spots in the state. And if you’re looking for a more tranquil experience, free from crowds, we’ve got you covered, too.
All of the options on the list have public access and are less than an hour from Durham. Check them out!
Lakes near Durham:
- Falls Lake
- Jordan Lake
- Lake Crabtree
- Lake Johnson
- Lake Wheeler
- Lake Benson
- Shearon Harris Reservoir
- University Lake
- Cane Creek Reservoir
- Eno Rock Quarry
- Little River Lake
- Lake Michie
- Hyco Lake
- Mayo Lake
- Kerr Lake
- Graham-Mebane Lake
- Lake Mackintosh
1. Falls Lake
- Official Page: Falls Lake
- Distance from Durham: 11 miles (20 min)
- Activities: Fishing, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Swimming, Water Skiing, Wakeboarding, Jet Skiing, Tubing, Picnics, Camping, RVs, Hiking, MTBs
Falls Lake is a massive 12,000-acre reservoir just 20 minutes from Durham. It’s not just the top lake around but one of the best recreational spots in the state.
Unlike many lakes in North Carolina, this reservoir is undeveloped and has numerous public access areas.
State Parks organization manages seven different locations, including the most versatile and the nearest to Durham – Rolling View. In addition, the reservoir offers four remote boat ramps to avoid crowds. To get a complete picture, check out this map.
Falls Lake has no limits on recreation. Swimming is allowed here, and there are several beaches scattered throughout.
Beaverdam area is the only no-gas motors zone, making it the best spot for kayaking, canoeing, and quiet fishing. This is where you will find designated MTB trails, too. The rest of the lake is fantastic for fast boating and water sports like wakeboarding and water and jet skiing.
However, when it comes to fishing, Falls Lake isn’t great. Although it holds the state record for white perch (almost 3lb), it scores average reviews as many people complain about overfishing. Still, lucky (or skilled) anglers can expect largemouth bass, channel catfish, and bluegill; it’s there.
Another unique feature of the lake is the 50-mile hiking trail that stretches along the southern shore. This backpacking route has campsites along the way and offers stunning views and undisturbed wilderness.
Beautiful, massive, versatile, and wild, Falls Lake is the top spot. And luckily for Durham, it’s just 20 minutes away.
Related: 11 Stunning Lakes near Greensboro, NC
2. Jordan Lake
- Official Page: Jordan Lake
- Distance from Durham: 15 miles (25 min)
- Activities: Fishing, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Swimming, Water Skiing, Wakeboarding, Jet Skiing, Tubing, Picnics, Camping, RVs, Hiking
Jordan Lake is 14,000 acres in size located south of Durham. It’s another fantastic recreational lake open to the public.
Like Falls Lake, Jordan Reservoir is managed by State Parks and has several access areas and remote boat ramps, giving you plenty of choices.
The access areas vary in size and facilities. Some are well-developed with RV parks and marinas, while others are primitive, with just a boat ramp or tent sites. The best way to find a spot for your needs is to check out the lake’s website.
When it comes to activities, Jordan Lake has no limits. From swimming and fishing to paddling and water sports, it’s all happening here.
However, unlike Falls Lake, Jordan has many underwater obstacles like stumps and shallows. So take extra care when skiing or wakeboarding; there are markets to aid the navigation.
Still, underwater growth, stumps, and timber create excellent fish habitats, making Jordan Lake an amazing fishing destination. It scores well above average and offers a wide selection of species. The most common catch is largemouth bass which grows to over 10 pounds here.
Also, there are plenty of campgrounds and hiking trails spread around the lake. And you can hire motorboats, kayaks, and SUPs or try sailing.
Needless to say, Jordan Lake is very versatile. You can come for a buzzing day at the beach or go for a quiet paddling far from the crowds. It has it all!
Related: 9 Fantastic Lakes near Fayetteville, NC
3. Lake Crabtree
- Official Page: Lake Crabtree
- Distance from Durham: 14 miles (15 min)
- Activities: Fishing, Boating (no gas), Kayaking, Canoeing, Picnics, Hiking
Lake Crabtree is a 520-acre reservoir in Raleigh. It’s an urban lake, ideal for day trips, families, and picnics with friends.
The lake is a part of the county park that offers free access and tons of facilities like playgrounds, sports courts, hiking trails, and boat rentals.
Fishing is prevalent here, but the lake scores average reviews for that. Despite its modest size, there are reports of 8lbs+ largemouth bass, and you can also expect catfish, crappie, and carp.
Swimming is prohibited at Lake Crabtree, but the park offers kayak and canoe rentals during the warm season, which is a great way to get out on the water. Alternatively, you can make use of their boat ramp and launch your own. Although note that gas motors are prohibited.
Lake Crabtree won’t win awards for the best lake around, but it’s an essential part of Raleigh and a breath of fresh air. It’s best for half-day family trips and evening fishing expeditions.
Related: 9 Stunning Lakes near Greenville, NC
4. Lake Johnson
- Official Page: Lake Johnson
- Distance from Durham: 24 miles (25 min)
- Activities: Fishing, Boating (no gas), Kayaking, Canoeing, SUPs, Picnics, Hiking
Lake Johnson is a small reservoir just 150 acres in size. It’s a highly-rated destination and a popular paddling spot located in Raleigh.
Like Lake Crabtree, Lake Johnson is a part of an urban park. However, it doesn’t have the typical playgrounds or sports grounds. Instead, it’s a tranquil natural spot with wooded trails and hammock zones, very zen.
Swimming is prohibited at Lake Johnson, but the park has a seasonal swimming pool for cooling off in summer.
Also, the lake is a popular paddling destination with kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals. You can join a paddling group or launch your own craft and explore the shoreline.
Fishing is average here. You can cast from the pier or the main bridge but don’t inflate your expectation; after all, it’s a small urban lake. If you’re serious about catching lunkers, Jordan Lake is a better option.
As a quiet natural spot, Lake Johnson is excellent for escaping the hustle and bustle of the city, but it’s not as versatile as bigger lakes.
Related: 11 Stunning Lakes near Greensboro, NC
5. Lake Wheeler
- Official Page: Lake Wheeler
- Distance from Durham: 29 miles (35 min)
- Activities: Fishing, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, SUPs, Picnics, Water Skiing, Wakeboarding, Tubing
Lake Wheeler is a 650-acre reservoir south of Raleigh. It’s a charming day-use destination with gorgeous sunsets and fantastic paddling opportunities.
The lake is part of a well-kept county park that offers playgrounds, a volleyball court, and boat rentals. You can hire paddleboards, canoes, kayaks and explore the multiple coves. The loop along the shore is about 7 miles and can take over 3 hours to complete.
Swimming is prohibited at Lake Wheeler, but surprisingly, water-contact sports like waterskiing and wakeboarding are allowed, although there are no-wake time restrictions in place.
Fishing isn’t bad here. Despite the lake’s size, there are reports of 7lb+ largemouth bass, but the second most common catch – channel catfish – is relatively small.
It’s an excellent destination for paddling, family get-togethers, and romantic picnics (if you time the sunset right).
Related: 9 Fantastic Lakes near Fayetteville, NC
6. Lake Benson
- Official Page: Lake Benson
- Distance from Durham: 34 miles (40 min)
- Activities: Fishing, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Picnics, Hiking
Lake Benson is 650 acres in size, located south of Garner. It’s an urban destination best suited for family get-togethers and summer picnics.
It’s not as versatile as other destinations on the list, but it’s a pleasant spot where you can rent jon boats, kayaks, and canoes (no personal craft allowed).
Fishing is ok at Lake Benson, and it’s free. It won’t take your breath away, but largemouth bass grows to a decent size here.
Also, dog owners would love this destination. The park has two dog playgrounds, which is rare.
Overall, Lake Benson is a family-oriented destination that offers a little bit of everything; it’s an excellent introduction to the lakeside fun.
Related: 9 Stunning Lakes near Greenville, NC
7. Shearon Harris Reservoir
- Official Page: Shearon Harris Reservoir
- Distance from Durham: 30 miles (30 min)
- Activities: Fishing, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Water Skiing, Wakeboarding, Jet Skiing, Hiking, Picnics
Shearon Harris Reservoir is also known as Harris Lake. It’s 4,100 acres in size and can be reached in just 30 minutes from Durham.
It’s largely undeveloped and wild, with just a couple of access options. For a more remote experience, you can use the two boat ramps. But most visitors opt for the county park on the northern shore.
Harris Lake County Park offers lots of amenities like picnic shelters, playgrounds, and biking and hiking trails. It’s the perfect spot for your first visit.
Fishing is excellent at Harris Lake. The park has a couple of piers and runs Tackle Loaner Program. Largemouth bass dominates the waters, and 7lb+ lunkers aren’t uncommon.
However, the reservoir has a couple of drawbacks. For example, swimming isn’t allowed at Harris Lake, and there are no campgrounds for multi-day trips.
But apart from that, it’s an excellent destination that will suit both seasoned adventurers and beginners.
Related: 11 Stunning Lakes near Greensboro, NC
8. University Lake
- Official Page: University Lake
- Distance from Durham: 15 miles (30 min)
- Activities: Fishing, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Picnics
University Lake is a 213-acre reservoir near Chapell Hill. It’s a seasonal lake that is open to the public a couple of days a week during the warm season.
Such restrictions can be frustrating, but they come with benefits. For example, fishing is great at University Lake. It’s not overfished and scores high marks from anglers. Largemouth bass dominates the lake and can reach 10 pounds here.
Also, this destination doesn’t get crowded, probably because folks choose more familiar lakes.
Because it’s used for water supply, swimming or wading are prohibited at University Lake. So are dogs and the use of gas motors. The water company keeps the water as pristine as possible.
Still, you can hire kayaks, canoes, and jon boats, or bring your own (permit required). Paddling is popular here, and it’s an excellent way to explore the lake.
Although not as versatile as many other options on the list, University Lake is worth the drive. It’s well-kept and tranquil but check the opening hours before traveling.
Related: 9 Fantastic Lakes near Fayetteville, NC
9. Cane Creek Reservoir
- Official Page: Cane Creek Reservoir
- Distance from Durham: 27 miles (35 min)
- Activities: Fishing, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Picnics
Cane Creek Reservoir is another water supply lake managed by the same company as University Lake. It’s 540 acres in size and offers seasonal access.
The reservoir is open for recreation a couple of days a week during the warm season. This means it’s not overfished and provides excellent fishing opportunities, just like University Lake.
Swimming and wading are prohibited at Cane Creek Reservoir, and you can’t use gas motors. But paddling is allowed. You can bring your own boats or rent kayaks and canoes on the spot.
This location is great for fishing, paddling, and escaping the hustle and bustle of the city. But if you need more from a lake, then Jordan and Falls are much better options.
Related: 9 Stunning Lakes near Greenville, NC
10. Eno Rock Quarry
- Official Page: Eno Rock Quarry
- Distance from Durham: 9 miles (15 min)
- Activities: Swimming
Eno Rock Quarry is a 4-acre flooded pit that is a well-known swimming hole near Durham.
It’s located inside the Eno River State Park and requires a mile-long hike to get to. The trailhead parking is Cabelands on Howe St. Spaces are limited, and alternatives are scarce, so arrive early, especially on weekends.
Park rangers don’t recommend swimming at the quarry as the banks are steep and the water is 60 feet deep. But this doesn’t stop dozens of daredevils from enjoying this spot.
Needless to say, it’s not a family-friendly location. In fact, a few people have drowned there over the years. Floats and tubes are highly advisable.
Enjoy at your own risk!
Related: 11 Stunning Lakes near Greensboro, NC
11. Little River Lake
- Official Page: Little River Lake
- Distance from Durham: 12 miles (20 min)
- Activities: Fishing, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Picnics
Little River Lake is a 549-acre reservoir north of the city. It’s Durham’s primary water supply which means strict restrictions are in place, but anglers and paddlers would love this spot.
During the warm period, the lake is open to the public most of the week. It offers bank fishing, a pier, boat rentals, and a couple of picnic tables. It’s a tranquil spot, free from the crowds.
Fishing is quite good. Largemouth, crappie, and bluegill are the most common species, but lunkers are rare.
The use of personal boats or gas motors is prohibited at Littel River Lake, so are swimming and wading. But you can rent jon boats, kayaks, and canoes.
It’s a similar destination to University Lake and Cane Creek Reservoir but a little bit closer to Durham.
Related: 9 Fantastic Lakes near Fayetteville, NC
12. Lake Michie
- Official Page: Lake Michie
- Distance from Durham: 15 miles (25 min)
- Activities: Fishing, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Picnics
Lake Michie is a 480-acre reservoir near Bahama, just 25 minutes from Durham. It’s another tranquil spot without the hustle and bustle of bigger lakes.
Wilking Road Park is right on the lake, and it offers picnic shelters, grills, and fishing.
However, if you’re planning on boating, Lake Michie Boathouse is the place. This location offers a paved launching ramp, paddleboats rentals, and a couple of picnic tables.
The official website claims that the reservoir is the finest largemouth bass spot. Yet, the fishing reports are pretty modest. Perhaps, this is a hidden gem that the general public doesn’t know about yet.
Swimming and wading aren’t allowed at Lake Michie. Like many others around Durham, it’s a water supply lake, so the restrictions on body contact apply, although motorboats are permitted.
It won’t win prizes for the most versatile lake, but it’s a stunning tranquil spot, perfect for nature fans.
Related: 9 Stunning Lakes near Greenville, NC
13. Hyco Lake
- Official Page: Hyco Lake
- Distance from Durham: 40 miles (50 min)
- Activities: Fishing, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Swimming, Water Skiing, Wakeboarding, Jet Skiing, Tubing, Picnics, Camping, RVs, Hiking
Hyco Lake is a 3,750-acre reservoir 40 miles north of Durham. It’s a fun and versatile destination with hardly any restrictions on recreation.
There are a couple of ways to access the reservoir. If you have your own boat, you can make use of the launching ramp in the northern part of the lake. It’s remote but free to access.
Alternatively, there is the Hyco Lake Natural Area on Route 57. It’s a more developed destination with campsites, a hiking trail, and a shop. Also, across the bridge from there, you can hire pontoon boats.
Swimming is allowed at Hyco Lake, and so are wakeboarding and water and jet skiing. In fact, it’s one of the go-to lakes for water sports around.
Fishing is excellent at Hyco Lake, too. The reviews are high, and anglers rarely walk away without a catch. You are almost guaranteed to bring home dinner, usually largemouth bass.
The only drawback to the lake is that it gets relatively busy during the summer weekends. Despite its size, there are just two access areas.
Still, it’s a highly versatile and charming spot. And thanks to its campground, it’s great for multi-day trips, too.
Related: 11 Stunning Lakes near Greensboro, NC
14. Mayo Lake
- Official Page: Mayo Lake
- Distance from Durham: 38 miles (50 min)
- Activities: Fishing, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Swimming, Water Skiing, Wakeboarding, Jet Skiing, Tubing, Picnics, Camping, RVs, Hiking
Mayo Lake is a 2,800-acre reservoir north of Durham. It’s another fantastic example of a versatile lake with no limits on recreation.
The reservoir is largely undeveloped, and there is just one access area – Mayo Lake Park. The park offers various accommodation types, including RV sites, primitive camping, and cabins, making it an easy choice for weekend adventures.
Also, the park has several hiking trails, paddleboat rentals, and a launching ramp, everything you may need for a day on the lake.
Swimming is allowed at Mayo Lake, and the water is relatively clear and gets pretty warm towards the end of the summer.
Water sports enthusiasts can wakeboard and ski at Mayo Lake; there are no restrictions here. And the water levels are more stable than at nearby Hyco Lake.
Perhaps the only drawback to the reservoir is the lack of access areas; you don’t have a choice. But apart from that, it’s the top lake. And it’s especially great for families and first-time visitors.
Related: 9 Fantastic Lakes near Fayetteville, NC
15. Kerr Lake
- Official Page: Kerr Lake
- Distance from Durham: 44 miles (45 min)
- Activities: Fishing, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, Swimming, Water Skiing, Wakeboarding, Jet Skiing, Tubing, Picnics, Camping, RVs, Hiking, Scuba Diving
At 50,000 acres, Kerr Lake is one of the largest and most popular reservoirs in the southeast, let alone the state. And luckily for Durham, it’s just 45 minutes away.
NC State Parks manages seven recreational areas around the lake. All of them are well-developed and offer camping and boating facilities. Check out this map to get a bird’s eye view and compare the areas.
When it comes to activities, there are hardly any restrictions in place. From swimming to paddling and water skiing, the lake has it all. It’s the most versatile destination on the list.
Fishing at Kerr Lake is excellent, too. As you can imagine, a reservoir of this size produces numerous species in large sizes. In fact, it holds two state records in NC – white bass and freshwater drum. The largest blue catfish caught in the lake was a 143-pound monster.
The lake has busy areas, as well as tranquil spots for solitude seekers and nature fans. It can accommodate any type of visitor, and it’s the top destination in the southeast.
16. Graham-Mebane Lake
- Official Page: Graham-Mebane Lake
- Distance from Durham: 31 miles (35 min)
- Activities: Fishing, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, SUPs, Skiing, Wakeboarding, Tubing, Jet Skiing
Graham-Mebane Lake is a 650-acre reservoir east of Burlington. It is known for big bass tournaments, lovely scenery, and a relaxing setting.
The best destination on the lake is recreational area off Benson Road which has a launching ramp, a pier, rentals, and plenty of parking.
Surprisingly, water sports like wakeboarding and skiing are allowed at Graham-Mebane Lake. But despite such activities, it’s frequently described as quiet and tranquil, probably because it doesn’t attract crowds.
Other water activities on offer are fishing (pier, bank, and boat) and paddling; you can rent kayaks and canoes or launch your own.
There are a couple of drawbacks to mention, though. One, swimming is prohibited, like at make lakes around Durham. And two, some visitors complained of copperheads, so watch your step here.
17. Lake Mackintosh
- Official Page: Lake Mackintosh
- Distance from Durham: 39 miles (40 min)
- Activities: Fishing, Boating, Kayaking, Canoeing, SUPs, Hiking, Nature Trips
Lake Mackintosh is a 1,150-acre reservoir near Burlington, easily accessible from I-40. It’s another excellent lake for water activities near Durham that shouldn’t be missed.
There are two main access points to the reservoir. One option is Lake Mackintosh Marina that offers well-developed facilities like picnic shelters, launching ramps, and boat rentals.
And another is Guilford-Mackintosh Park, which in addition to the standard boat rentals and ramps, also has a sand volleyball court, a horseshoe pit, and a selection of hiking trails.
The lake is known to be well-maintained and clean. And although it’s not the nearest to Durham, it’s worth visiting for its versatility and special charm.
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