Jordan Lake State Recreation Area
280 State Park Road, Apex (Visitor Center)
This 21-square-mile lake offers a whole host of outdoor activities. With seven different access points, guests can swim, kayak or paddleboard around the lake, or spend time hiking or picnicking on shore. Located near Crosswinds Campground, the privately-owned Crosswinds Marina provides visitors with daily kayak, paddleboard and boat rentals. For more information about access points and admission, visit the Jordan Lake State Recreation Area website.
Optimist Pool
5902 Whittier Drive, Raleigh
Located in Optimist Park, this facility includes both indoor and outdoor areas. Swim laps inside in the Olympic pool, or head outside to chill in the wading pool. Adventurous types can also hang out in the 12-foot deep pool, complete with a climbing wall. Information on hours, admission and more can be found on the City of Raleigh website.
Bray Park Aquatic Facility
700 Alston Bridge Road, Siler City
Spend the day under the sun at this community pool. Splash around in water buckets and spray jets, or simply relax in the water. Guests can also bring food for a poolside lunch at the picnic shelter. Open from May 24 until Labor Day, this pool is a great place for outdoor family fun. Head to the Bray Park Aquatic Facility website to find admission information.
Lower Haw River State Natural Area
Chatham County
This section of the Haw River in Chatham County is designated as a State Natural Area, which prioritizes conservation over recreation, making it a perfect spot for those who want to enjoy a peaceful getaway. Visitors can tube or paddle down the river in rentals from The Haw River Canoe & Kayak Co. or bring binoculars for birdwatching and other wildlife viewing. Find access points and more information about the area at the Friends of Lower Haw River website.
Triangle Aquatic Center
275 Convention Drive, Cary
This indoor-outdoor facility prides itself on its commitment to fitness and was chosen by the U.S. Olympic Swim Team to host domestic training for the 2024 Paris Olympics. The outdoor Olympic pool is available for open swim, and additional amenities include a gym, full kitchen and multipurpose room. Hungry swimmers can also stop by the Poolside Grill for a bite to eat. Check out the Triangle Aquatic Center website for admission details.
Eno River State Park
6131 Cole Mill Road, Durham (Visitor Center)
The 40-mile-long Eno River runs right through the Triangle, giving residents a number of great spots for outdoor recreation. Cool off with a swim, go fishing along the riverbank or paddle down the river in a kayak or canoe. The park also offers 36 miles of hiking trails, some of which boast scenic views of the river. Visit the Eno River State Park website to learn more about admission and access points.
Buffaloe Road Aquatic Center
5908 Buffaloe Road, Raleigh
Excitement and relaxation are on offer at Buffaloe Road Aquatic Center. Hop aboard the three-story waterslide (riders must be 48 inches tall) or float along the lazy river for a mellow day at the pool. The facility also features a water vortex, three lap lanes and an area for young children, making it suitable for any type of swimmer. Visit the City of Raleigh website to learn more.
Falls Lake State Recreation Area
13304 Creedmoor Road, Creedmoor
Make a splash while enjoying the beauty of Falls Lake. Public swim beaches are open at Beaverdam, Rolling View and Sandling – just check seasonal hours before you go. Camp overnight at Holly Point and enjoy exclusive access to an additional swim beach. All swim areas are wheelchair accessible, with smooth paved paths leading right to the water. Entry fees apply in summer, but there are no additional fees for swimming.
Looking for more items to add to your summer bucket list? Check out our ultimate checklist to the Triangle!
