Fees/FAQs/Rules
Upcoming Events:
All Falls Lake recreation areas have now been re-opened from the winter storm (that are normally scheduled to be open at this time). Some satellite areas are still closed until crews can ensure the roads are clear. Please always use caution anytime there may be ice or snow when driving, biking, or walking in the park.
Last updated on: Monday, December 10, 2018Normal winter seasonal closures are as follows:
Sandling Beach day-use area is closed from October 1 until April 1.
Holly Point family campground is closed from November 1 until March 15.
BW Wells group campground is closed from December 1 until March 15.
Falls Lake has other areas that offer day-use, family camping, and group camping open every day except Christmas Day. For a full list, please go to: https://files.nc.gov/ncparks/maps-and-brochures/falls-lake-2018-2019-ope...
Last updated on: Wednesday, October 24, 2018In addition to park-specific rules, please read the systemwide Park Rules for all North Carolina State Parks.
Entrance Fees
Falls Lake State Recreation Area charges for entry in the summer months, to supplement operational costs and help maintain and improve the areas for visitors. The per-car fee is charged daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day, holidays in April, May and September and on weekends. Annual pass holders are entitled to an unlimited number of visits without paying the admission fee.
- Car: $6 per day.
- Senior Citizen (62 or older): $4 per day.
- Bus or van: $15 per day.
- Annual Pass: $75.
Weekend Fees
- Car: $7 per day.
- Senior Citizen (62 or older): $5 per day.
- Bus or van: $20 per day.
You can purchase the annual pass at the park offices. The pass is also good for unlimited entry to Jordan Lake State Recreation Area and Kerr Lake State Recreation Area, and is valid anytime within the calendar year.
A $25 fee will be charged for all returned checks.
Boating
Non-motorized boats or boats with non-gasoline engines only are allowed on Beaverdam Lake.
Permits
Event permits. Some events—such as weddings, athletic contests, company parties, etc.—may require a Special Activity Permit. If you're unsure whether such a permit is necessary for your event, call the park office beforehand. You can download a Special Activity Permit or obtain one from the park office.
Research and collection permits. A permit is required for any project involving the collection, removal or disturbance of any natural or cultural resource of any state park unit and for projects that require placing monitoring equipment in any state park unit. Learn more about research and collection permits or fill out a permit application online.
A $25 fee will be charged for all returned checks.
Falls Lake State Recreation Area
Day Use Areas
November to February: 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
March, April, September and October: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
May to August: 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Closed Christmas Day
Campgrounds
All campgrounds at Falls Lake State Recreation Area now offer 24-hour access during that campground's operating season.
IMPORTANT: See Falls Lake Operating Season Schedule for more details
All campgrounds are closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Park Office and Information Center
8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily
Office closed most state holidays and weekends between Labor Day and Easter