Paddling on Falls Lake in Wake Forest
Paddling on Falls Lake in Wake Forest
Falls Lake, located just minutes from Wake Forest, offers a prime destination for paddling enthusiasts. This expansive reservoir provides calm waters, scenic shorelines, and abundant wildlife, making it an excellent spot for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding. With multiple access points, diverse ecosystems, and a tranquil atmosphere, Falls Lake is the perfect place to enjoy time on the water.
Adventure Guide To Paddling on Falls Lake
Beaverdam Lake Area
- Located in the eastern section of Falls Lake, this area is designated for paddlers only, offering a motor-free zone for a peaceful experience.
- Shallow waters and minimal current make it ideal for beginners and families.
- Features a sandy beach and picnic areas, perfect for taking breaks between paddling sessions.
Rolling View Access
- Provides an excellent launching point for longer paddling adventures with scenic routes along wooded shorelines.
- Offers access to coves and inlets where herons, egrets, and turtles are frequently spotted.
- A large boat ramp and nearby campground make it a convenient option for extended trips.
Highway 50 Boat Launch
- A central launching spot that allows paddlers to venture into various sections of the lake.
- Stunning sunrise and sunset views make it a favorite for early morning and evening excursions.
- Fishing enthusiasts often combine paddling with catching bass, crappie, and catfish in the area.
Local Insights
- Falls Lake was created in the 1980s as a reservoir to provide drinking water and flood control for the region.
- Native wildlife includes bald eagles, river otters, and osprey, making it an excellent location for nature observation.
- The shoreline features remnants of old homesteads that existed before the lake was formed, adding historical intrigue to paddling routes.
Visitor Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds; mornings are ideal for wildlife viewing.
- What to Bring: Life jacket, waterproof bag, sunscreen, and hydration.
- Directions: Falls Lake is about 10 miles from downtown Wake Forest, accessible via NC-98 or NC-50, with a 15–20 minute drive.
Adventure Map
Reviews
Shayeq Sadat5 months ago
Great spots for family picnics, offering beautiful scenery, plenty of open space, and well-maintained facilities. The lake itself provides a peaceful backdrop, and there are numerous picnic shelters with grill spots everywhere, making it easy to relax and enjoy a meal outdoors. Plus, the trails and water activities add extra fun for the whole family. My kids love Falls Lake parks.
Muhammad Hasan Feroze4 months ago
Beautiful place full of nature and tall trees lake area is awesome also saw snakes in the picnic area while we were making bbq.
Jenn Allena month ago
This recreational area is easy to get to from pretty much anywhere in the Triangle. There are many covered picnic shelters and paved places to walk along the lake.
Scott Andrews2 months ago
Falls Lake State Recreation Area is a clean, well maintained rustic Campground near Raleigh NC. The sites are gravel, water and power hook up. Our site was #30 in Campground #2. The site was a great deal longer than our camper and tow vehicle. The site was spacious and level. Like most of the sites in CG #2, there is a heavy pine and hardwood tree cover. Site 30 is on a stretch of road where vehicles can pick up some speed approaching the more populated areas. Sites 58 and 65 are very nice water views. Site 66 has some water views. Site 67 is a nice site but no water views.
72, 73 and 74 nice long easy access sites with no water view
The somewhat dated bathhouse was clean, well maintained and the hot water was endless. This is a popular campground due to the lake and boat launch, so the area will be busy on nice weekends. The winding roads leading into the campground are easily navigated but are pitch black at night. Raleigh and overpopulated areas nearby for shopping, dining and supplies, but why? We camp to escape that stuff. If you prefer a State Park, Corp of Engineers or BLM park, this is your place. If you like everything close by and amenities, look elsewhere. We highly recommend.
Cynthia Jordan4 months ago
Beautiful scenery. Walking trails. Nice beach area. Boat launch with dock. Clubhouse with public restroom. Very clean! Picnic area with grill. Covered pavilion available for public use!
