If you’re like most people, then the anticipation of the first camping trip of the season sends chills of excitement up your spine as the weather warms up each spring. There’s nothing more satisfying and nostalgic than recreating all those summer camping trips we took as a kid to beautiful campgrounds in North Carolina – or the many more magical weekends we spent on similar trips with our own children. Let’s take a look at Poplar Point Campground in North Carolina.

If you were raised here in the Tar Heel State, then chances are good that you've spent a weekend or two somewhere on Jordan Lake if you're a camping enthusiast.
Jeremy Taylor/Flickr
The nearly 14,000-acre lake was created 45 years ago and has since become a major source of summer recreation for natives and visitors alike. Some may say that a day at Jordan Lake is like a day in paradise.
In 1982, more than 5,000 acres along the shores of Jordan Lake were turned into a North Carolina State Park.
Surya Reddy/Google
Today, the state park has numerous access points all around the lake — and one of them, in particular, transforms each summer into the size of a small town.
With 579 lakeside campsites, the Poplar Point Access campground at Jordan Lake is by far the largest of the campgrounds surrounding the lake.
David Roth/Google
At capacity, assuming each campsite has at least four persons, Poplar Point has an ever-changing population of 2,316 people, and that doesn't even include any four-legged family members.
Given the sheer size of the fun-loving crowds that descend upon Poplar Point each summer — combined with the lack of urban comforts like restaurants, stores, and other distractions...
Nicolas Kressmann/Google
It's probably a bit more accurate to say Poplar Point turns into a giant summer camp each year. It's a safe haven for retreating back to a time when life was simpler and we awoke each morning with no plans but to enjoy life to its fullest.

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Camping at Poplar Point affords some of the very best views of Jordan Lake.
Angie Real Estate/Google
Most of the waterfront sites are those without electricity and one can truly get a sense of literally unplugging for the weekend.
The sites are spacious and you can always count on meeting a few new people with whom you, at the least, have a love for the great outdoors — and camping — in common.
Larry Parnell/Google
As for amenities, Poplar Point boasts more than one place where you can dip your toes (and more) in the water.
Be Moore/TripAdvisor
The parks system doesn't promote swimming because there are no lifeguards on duty (swim at your own risk!), but a visit to the sandy shores of Dolde Beach is a perfect way to spend the day. Poplar Point also boasts a couple of boat ramps that are for the use of camping guests only. Picnic shelters are in place, as well as playgrounds for the kids.
This map of JUST the Poplar Point Campground at Jordan Lake gives you an idea of how much the population swells during the summer months after the campground opens the gates for the season.
North Carolina Parks
Even though there are 579 campsites, you'll want to get reservations early if you want to be a part of the unofficial small town at Poplar Point this year!

Get an overview of what’s available at Jordan Lake:

Poplar Point Campground at Jordan Lake is open seasonally. Some loops in the campground open as early as March, while others don’t open until mid-May. Some sites are available for reservations in advance. Other sites are set aside for walk-ups only.

If you’re planning multiple camping trips this season, don’t pass up a chance to spend the weekend tubing at this river campground in North Carolina!

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More to Explore

The Natural Beauty of North Carolina

William Suphan | April 19, 2023

What are the most incredible natural wonders in North Carolina? 

The most incredible natural wonders in North Carolina include:

  • Whitewater Falls. These are the biggest waterfalls east of the Rocky Mountains. These beautiful falls stand 811 feet tall.
  • The Outer Banks. This is a group of barrier islands that are spread out over 200 miles. You’ll find some of the most gorgeous beaches in the nation.
  • Pilot Mountain. This stunning mountain is a local landmark and is the last remaining portion of the ancient Sauratown chain of mountains.
  • Looking Glass Rock. This ancient stone mountain formed over 390 million years ago and is made of whiteside granite.

Discover more about the most incredible natural wonders in North Carolina. 

What are some bucket list nature spots in North Carolina? 

Bucket list nature spots in North Carolina include:

  • White Lake. This has been a beloved local camping destination for decades. You’ll find white sand beaches and crystal-clear water.
  • Sand Dollar Island. Take a ferry to this small Island and find dozens of sand dollars along the lovely shores.
  • Joyce Kilmer Memorial Forest. This place has one of the most massive old-growth forests in the country, with gigantic trees, and is replete with verdant green nature.
  • McGalliard Falls Park. There are natural rock water slides here as well as a historic, old-fashioned mill.

Learn more about bucket list nature spots in North Carolina. 

What are the most relaxing natural areas in North Carolina? 

The most relaxing natural areas in North Carolina include:

  • SOCO Falls. This is a gorgeous and serene place with tiny waterfalls and streams just off Highway 19.
  • Craggy Pinnacle Overlook. Go on a little hike near the Blue Ridge Parkway and you’ll find a breathtaking view of Craggy Gardens.
  • Camp Alice Trail. This Trail will bring you to beautiful open fields with awe-inspiring views of Mt. Mitchell and it’s usually quite secluded.
  • Hawksbill Mountain. Take a day hike up this mountain to get stunning views of Linville Gorge.

Find out more about the most relaxing natural areas in North Carolina. 

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