Camping at Parkers Creek Shelters
Location and Access
Parkers Creek Shelters are part of the Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, a vast and popular preserve encompassing 14,000 acres of water and parkland in Chatham County, North Carolina. These shelters are accessible by car and located near the Parkers Creek campground area on the west side of Jordan Lake.
Shelter Details
Parkers Creek Shelters offer several picnic shelters for group gatherings and activities. Here are some key points to remember:
- Reservation: Shelters can be reserved in advance, which is often recommended, especially during peak seasons or weekends.
- Size: Different shelters may accommodate different group sizes, so check the capacity for your specific needs.
- Amenities: Most shelters have picnic tables, grills for cooking, and nearby restrooms. Some may also include electrical outlets.
- Accessibility: Check if the shelter you're booking has ADA-accessible facilities.
Camping Amenities
While the shelters are separate from the camping facilities, the Parkers Creek area includes various amenities for campers:
- Campsite Options: There are different types of campsites available, including RV sites, tent sites, and group camping areas.
- Facilities: Campgrounds typically provide restrooms with showers, potable water, and a dump station for RVs.
- Activities: Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife observation in the surrounding areas.
Rules and Regulations
- Capacity Limits: Follow the specific capacity limits for the shelter you reserve to ensure compliance with state park regulations.
- Alcohol Policy: Alcoholic beverages may be prohibited; check the latest regulations specific to Jordan Lake State Recreation Area.
- Pets: Pets are permitted in the state recreation area but must be on a leash no longer than six feet.
- Fires: Fires are only allowed in designated fire rings or grills.
- Quiet Hours: Be courteous and observe quiet hours typically enforced in the evening through early morning.
Reservations and Fees
- Booking: Shelters can generally be reserved through the North Carolina State Parks website or by contacting the park office directly.
- Fees: There may be a fee to reserve Parkers Creek Shelters or campsites, which varies depending on the size of the shelter, the day of the week, and whether you're a state resident.
Safety and Environment
- Wildlife: Store food securely and dispose of trash properly to avoid attracting wildlife.
- Weather: Be prepared for changes in weather and check local forecasts.
- Water Safety: As Jordan Lake is a significant water body, follow all safety guidelines for swimming and boating.
Contact Information
For current information, it's always best to contact the park directly:
- Park Office: The main office for Jordan Lake State Rec Area can provide the latest updates, maps, and other visitor resources.
- Website: The official state parks website will have the most current information and online services for reservations.
Directions and Parking
- Address: Use the Jordan Lake State Recreation Area address for GPS navigation, and follow park signage to the Parkers Creek area.
- Parking: There is designated parking near the shelters. A parking fee may be charged per vehicle entering the state recreation area.
When planning a trip to Parkers Creek Shelters or any other facilities within Jordan Lake State Recreation Area, always check the latest updates for any potential changes or alerts that may impact your visit.
