15 Best Lakes in Raleigh

Imagine a city where urban vibrancy meets the tranquil embrace of nature, a place where lush greenways lead to sparkling waters, inviting you to pause, play, or simply unwind. Welcome to Raleigh, North Carolina, a destination often celebrated for its innovative spirit and culinary scene, but equally cherished for its incredible network of lakes. You might be surprised to discover just how many pristine aquatic havens dot the landscape of the “City of Oaks,” each offering a unique escape from the everyday.

From expansive reservoirs perfect for boating and fishing to serene ponds ideal for a leisurely stroll, Raleigh’s lakes are truly its hidden gems. This guide will be your compass to navigating these watery wonders, revealing their distinct charms, practical tips for your visit, and detailed cost insights to help you plan your perfect lakeside adventure. The best time to visit is typically spring (April-May) or fall (September-October) when the weather is mild and the natural beauty is at its peak, though summer offers excellent opportunities for water sports. Prepare to explore, breathe deeply, and fall in love with Raleigh’s aquatic soul.

Lake Johnson; 4601 Avent Ferry Road

Lake Johnson, a jewel nestled within Raleigh, offers a vibrant escape where nature and recreation seamlessly blend. This is not just a lake; it is a community hub, beloved by locals for its extensive paved and unpaved trails that wind through scenic woodlands, perfect for walking, running, or cycling. You will discover picturesque views at every turn, especially from the pedestrian bridge that spans the lake.

The boathouse is a hive of activity, providing rentals for paddle boats, kayaks, canoes, and even stand-up paddleboards, inviting you to glide across the calm waters. Fishing is popular here, with anglers often reeling in bass, crappie, and catfish from the shore or small boats. Its accessibility and variety of activities make it a fantastic spot for families looking for an active day out, couples seeking a romantic sunset paddle, or solo adventurers wanting to connect with nature without leaving the city. The lake’s history is tied to Raleigh’s development, providing a vital recreational space for its growing population.

Lake Wheeler; 6404 Lake Wheeler Road

Lake Wheeler, a sprawling expanse of water on Raleigh’s southern edge, stands out as a premier destination for those who love motorboating and serious fishing. Unlike many other city lakes, Lake Wheeler permits motorized boats, making it a favorite for water skiing, wakeboarding, and larger fishing vessels. You will find ample space to cast a line, whether from a boat or one of the designated fishing piers. The lake is well-stocked with a variety of fish including largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish, making it a true angler’s paradise.

Beyond the water, the park offers a scenic disc golf course winding through wooded areas, perfect for a challenging round. There are also picnic shelters and open spaces ideal for family gatherings. Its sheer size and dedicated facilities make it perfect for groups seeking active water sports, serious fishermen, or anyone looking for a more expansive, less crowded lakeside experience. The history of Lake Wheeler is rooted in its role as a vital water supply for the city, now beautifully repurposed for public recreation.

Lake Lynn; 7921 Ray Road

Lake Lynn offers a tranquil escape within North Raleigh, characterized by its beautifully maintained 2.8-mile paved loop trail that encircles the serene waters. This is a beloved spot for walkers, joggers, and parents with strollers, providing a smooth, scenic pathway through a mix of open green spaces and shaded woodlands. As you make your way around the lake, you will encounter charming gazebos, benches perfect for quiet contemplation, and a vibrant community park with playgrounds, tennis courts, and baseball fields.

Fishing is permitted from designated areas, and you might spot herons or ducks gracefully gliding across the water. The atmosphere at Lake Lynn is consistently peaceful and welcoming, making it an ideal destination for solo individuals seeking a quiet stroll, families enjoying a playground visit, or couples looking for a gentle, romantic walk. Its history as a residential community amenity has fostered a strong sense of local pride and care for the park.

Lake Howell; 520 Ashe Avenue

Lake Howell, though small and often overlooked, holds a unique charm as a picturesque urban pond nestled within the vast landscape of Dix Park. Unlike the larger recreational lakes, Lake Howell is more about quiet contemplation and scenic beauty than active water sports. You will find it surrounded by open fields, walking paths, and the rolling hills of what was once a hospital campus, now transforming into Raleigh’s largest park.

It offers stunning views, particularly at sunrise or sunset, and is a fantastic spot for a picnic or simply to sit on a bench and enjoy the tranquility. While fishing is permitted, there are no boat rentals, emphasizing its role as a peaceful natural retreat. This particular lake is ideal for solo visitors seeking solitude, couples looking for a romantic backdrop, or families wanting a gentle stroll and open space for children to play. Its historical context as part of the Dorothea Dix Hospital grounds adds a layer of intriguing past to its present beauty.

Falls Lake; 13304 Creedmoor Road, Wake Forest

Falls Lake, a colossal reservoir sprawling across thousands of acres in Wake Forest, is a true outdoor enthusiast’s paradise and a crown jewel of North Carolina’s state recreation areas. This vast body of water offers an unparalleled range of activities, from extensive boating (motorized and non-motorized) and swimming at designated beaches to excellent fishing opportunities for bass, crappie, and catfish. You will find numerous boat ramps, expansive camping grounds, and miles of multi-use trails, including segments of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail, perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

Birdwatchers flock here for the diverse avian population, including bald eagles. Its sheer scale means you can always find a secluded spot, even on busy days. Falls Lake is perfect for families seeking a full day of outdoor adventure, serious anglers, campers, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in a vast natural setting. Its construction in the 1970s was primarily for flood control and water supply, creating this magnificent recreational asset.

William B. Umstead State Park; 8801 Glenwood Avenue

William B. Umstead State Park is not just a single lake, but a sprawling wilderness oasis containing several tranquil lakes and ponds, making it a quintessential destination for deep nature immersion. Here, you will discover a vast network of multi-use trails that crisscross through dense forests, perfect for hiking, bridle trails for horseback riding, and unpaved paths ideal for mountain biking.

The park’s main lakes, Big Lake and Sycamore Lake, are peaceful havens for fishing and non-motorized boating, with rental canoes and rowboats available. You can easily spend an entire day exploring the diverse ecosystems, from wetlands to mature forests, and spotting a variety of wildlife. Umstead is a sanctuary for those seeking solitude in nature, active adventurers, and families looking to unplug and explore. Its history as a former state forest and land rehabilitation project underscores its commitment to preserving natural beauty for public enjoyment.

Shelley Lake; 1400 West Millbrook Road

Shelley Lake is a vibrant urban park in North Raleigh, centered around a picturesque lake that draws a constant stream of visitors. Its main attraction is the popular 2-mile paved greenway loop that encircles the water, providing a smooth and accessible path for walking, jogging, and cycling. As you traverse the trail, you will be treated to lovely lake views, shaded sections, and open spaces perfect for stretching out.

The park is also home to the Sertoma Arts Center, adding a cultural dimension with art exhibits and classes. Fishing is a common activity from the lake’s banks, and you might spot various waterfowl enjoying the calm waters. Shelley Lake’s easy accessibility, combined with its diverse offerings, makes it a fantastic spot for families with young children (thanks to the playground), fitness enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a peaceful yet active outdoor experience close to residential areas. Its development as a community park has made it a beloved local staple.

Jordan Lake; 280 State Park Road, Apex

Jordan Lake, an enormous state recreation area near Apex, is a true ecological and recreational marvel, famous for its significant bald eagle population. This vast reservoir offers an incredible array of activities across its multiple access points and recreation areas. You can spend your days boating (motorized and non-motorized), swimming at expansive sandy beaches, or fishing for a variety of species. The park boasts numerous campgrounds, making it a popular destination for overnight stays under the stars.

For nature lovers, miles of hiking trails wind through diverse habitats, providing excellent opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. Its sheer size ensures a sense of wilderness, even on busy days. Jordan Lake is an ideal destination for campers, boaters, families seeking beach access, and especially bird enthusiasts hoping to catch a glimpse of majestic bald eagles. The lake’s creation in the 1970s was primarily for flood control and water supply, inadvertently creating a haven for wildlife and recreation.

Lake Crabtree; 1400 Aviation Parkway, Morrisville

Lake Crabtree, uniquely positioned near Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) in Morrisville, is a hub of activity, particularly renowned for its extensive network of mountain biking trails. If you are an avid cyclist, you will find miles of single-track trails catering to various skill levels, offering exhilarating rides through wooded terrain. Beyond biking, the lake is a popular spot for paddle sports, with opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and stand-up paddleboarding, and it even hosts sailing regattas. Fishing is also a common pastime from the shore or small boats.

The park features playgrounds, picnic areas, and a disc golf course, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Its close proximity to the airport makes it an incredibly convenient stop for travelers looking to stretch their legs or locals seeking an active outdoor escape. Lake Crabtree is ideal for mountain bikers, paddle sports enthusiasts, and families seeking a dynamic park experience. Its development was partly influenced by the need for flood control in the Crabtree Creek basin.

Bond Lake; 197 Bond Park Drive, Cary

Bond Lake, a central feature of Fred G. Bond Metro Park in Cary, is a meticulously maintained oasis that truly offers something for every member of the family. This inviting lake is a hub for recreational boating, with paddle boats, canoes, and kayaks available for rent, allowing you to gently explore its calm waters. Fishing from the shore or a rented boat is a popular pastime, with the lake regularly stocked.

Beyond the water, the park itself is expansive, featuring multiple playgrounds, picnic shelters, an impressive challenge course, and miles of walking trails. You will also find a popular dog park and an amphitheater that hosts various community events. The overall atmosphere is one of wholesome family fun and active enjoyment. Bond Lake is perfect for families with children, active individuals, and anyone looking for a well-rounded park experience with ample amenities. Its design as a comprehensive community park has made it a model for urban recreation.

Lake Benson; 921 Buffaloe Road, Garner

Lake Benson, located in Garner, offers a serene and picturesque setting perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape from the urban bustle. This beautiful lake is a favorite for fishing, with ample opportunities to cast a line from the shore or from your own non-motorized boat (motorized boats are not permitted, ensuring a tranquil experience). You will find well-maintained greenway trails that wind along the lake’s perimeter, providing lovely routes for walking, jogging, or cycling amidst nature.

The park also features picnic areas, a playground, and open spaces, making it a comfortable spot for families to relax and enjoy the outdoors. The atmosphere is generally calm and unhurried, making it an excellent choice for anglers, nature photographers, or anyone looking for a quiet place to unwind and enjoy the simple beauty of a lakeside setting. Its role as a public water supply also contributes to its pristine appearance.

Durant Nature Preserve; 8305 Camp Durant Road

Durant Nature Preserve in North Raleigh is a captivating oasis focused on conservation and quiet enjoyment of nature, featuring two beautiful lakes (Big Lake and Little Lake) within its grounds. This preserve is less about active sports and more about immersive natural experiences. You will discover miles of well-maintained hiking trails that meander through diverse ecosystems, from mature forests to wetlands, providing excellent opportunities for birdwatching, nature photography, and quiet contemplation.

The lakes themselves are tranquil, allowing for fishing from the banks, and the preserve offers environmental education programs and a nature center. It is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, families interested in ecological learning, or anyone seeking a peaceful retreat to reconnect with the natural world. The preserve’s history as a former scout camp adds a unique layer to its character, now dedicated to preserving its natural heritage.

Harris Lake; 2112 County Park Drive, New Hill

Harris Lake County Park, situated in New Hill, is a vast recreational area centered around Harris Lake, offering an impressive range of activities for all ages. This park is a mecca for mountain bikers, boasting an extensive network of challenging trails that wind through varied terrain. Beyond the thrilling bike paths, you will find excellent opportunities for fishing from piers or non-motorized boats (motorized boats are permitted for specific activities like skiing in designated zones).

The park also features multiple disc golf courses, playgrounds, and picnic shelters, making it a versatile destination. Its expansive open spaces and diverse amenities provide ample room for relaxation and recreation. Harris Lake is particularly well-suited for mountain biking enthusiasts, disc golf players, and families looking for a full day of diverse outdoor activities. Its development was linked to the adjacent Shearon Harris Nuclear Power Plant, utilizing the lake for cooling while creating a valuable recreational resource.

Bass Lake; 900 Bass Lake Road, Holly Springs

Bass Lake Park in Holly Springs offers a serene and picturesque setting, perfect for a peaceful escape and outdoor enjoyment. The centerpiece is Bass Lake itself, a tranquil body of water known for its excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for bass (hence the name). You can fish from the accessible pier or launch your own non-motorized boat.

The park features a charming 1.8-mile loop trail that winds around the lake, providing a gentle and scenic walk through wooded areas and over boardwalks that skim the water’s edge. A distinctive feature is the historic boathouse, which also serves as a nature center, offering educational exhibits and programs. This park is ideal for anglers, birdwatchers, families seeking a quiet stroll, or anyone looking for a calm, beautiful natural setting to relax and connect with nature. Its smaller, more intimate scale contributes to its tranquil ambiance.

Plan Your Visit

As you have discovered, Raleigh is far more than just a thriving urban center; it is a city deeply connected to its natural landscape, especially its magnificent lakes. From the expansive waters of Falls Lake and Jordan Lake, perfect for adventurous boating and camping, to the serene loops of Lake Lynn and Bass Lake, ideal for quiet contemplation and leisurely strolls, the variety of experiences awaiting you is truly remarkable. Each lake offers a unique charm, whether you are seeking thrilling mountain bike trails, peaceful fishing spots, family-friendly playgrounds, or simply a beautiful backdrop for a picnic.

You will leave Raleigh feeling refreshed and inspired by its commitment to preserving these vital green and blue spaces. So, pack your walking shoes, your fishing rod, or your paddleboard, and prepare to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Raleigh’s best lakes. Remember to factor in potential boat rental fees or specific day-use charges, but generally, exploring these natural wonders offers incredible value. Your lakeside adventure awaits!