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Top Boating Lakes Within Two Hours of Raleigh, NC

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Top Boating Lakes Within Two Hours of Raleigh, NC

Living in the Triangle area offers the perfect blend of urban convenience and natural beauty. For boating enthusiasts, several lakes within a short drive from Raleigh allow motorized boating, providing ample opportunities for recreation and relaxation. At Southern Oaks Realty, we understand the allure of waterfront living and the joy of spending weekends on the water. Here's a curated list of lakes where you can enjoy motorized boating adventures:

1. Jordan Lake State Recreation Area (Apex, NC)

  • Distance from Raleigh: Approximately 30 miles (about 45 minutes)

  • Size: 13,940 acres

  • Highlights: Jordan Lake is a premier destination for boating enthusiasts. With multiple boat ramps and a privately owned marina near Crosswinds Campground offering slips and storage. The lake is also renowned for its fishing opportunities and scenic beauty. Jordan Lake State Recreation Area

2. Falls Lake State Recreation Area (Wake Forest, NC)

  • Distance from Raleigh: Approximately 20 miles (about 30 minutes)

  • Size: 12,410 acres

  • Highlights: Falls Lake offers expansive waters suitable for various motorized boating activities, including water skiing and jet skiing. With multiple access points and boat ramps, it's a favorite among locals for both recreation and fishing. Falls Lake State Recreation Area

3. Lake Wheeler Park (Raleigh, NC)

  • Distance from Downtown Raleigh: Approximately 8 miles (about 15 minutes)

  • Size: 650 acres

  • Highlights: Located just south of downtown Raleigh, Lake Wheeler allows motorized boating with a speed limit of 40 mph. The lake has specific no-wake hours on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays until 11 a.m., ensuring a balance between high-speed boating and quieter times. Lake Wheeler Park

4. Buckhorn Reservoir (Wilson, NC)

  • Distance from Raleigh: Approximately 50 miles (about 1 hour)

  • Size: 2,300 acres

  • Highlights: Buckhorn Reservoir is a spacious lake that permits all types of motorized boating activities, including water skiing and wakeboarding. Its expansive open waters make it ideal for those seeking high-speed boating adventures. Buckhorn Reservoir

5. Shearon Harris Reservoir (New Hill, NC)

  • Distance from Raleigh: Approximately 25 miles (about 35 minutes)

  • Size: 4,100 acres

  • Highlights: Also known as Harris Lake, this reservoir is popular for both recreational boating and fishing. With its large size and less crowded waters, it's a great spot for those looking to enjoy a peaceful day on the boat. Harris Lake Park

6. Lake Gaston (Littleton, NC)

  • Distance from Raleigh: Approximately 80 miles (about 1.5 hours)

  • Size: 20,300 acres

  • Highlights: Straddling the North Carolina-Virginia border, Lake Gaston is a vast reservoir that supports all forms of motorized boating. It's a popular destination for weekend getaways, offering numerous marinas, boat rentals, and waterfront accommodations. Lake Gaston

7. Kerr Lake (Henderson, NC)

  • Distance from Raleigh: Approximately 50 miles (about 1 hour)

  • Size: 50,000 acres

  • Highlights: Also known as Buggs Island Lake, Kerr Lake is one of the largest reservoirs in the Southeast. It offers extensive opportunities for motorized boating, with numerous boat ramps and marinas. The lake's vastness ensures that even on busy weekends, there's plenty of space for everyone. Camping is also a great past-time on Kerr Lake. Kerr Lake State Recreation Area

8. Badin Lake (Uwharrie National Forest, NC)

  • Distance from Raleigh: Approximately 80 miles (about 1.5 hours)

  • Size: 5,350 acres

  • Highlights: Nestled within the Uwharrie National Forest, Badin Lake is a scenic destination that allows motorized boating. The surrounding forest offers additional recreational opportunities, including hiking and camping, making it a perfect spot for a weekend retreat. Badin Lake

9. Lake Tillery (Norwood, NC)

  • Distance from Raleigh: Approximately 70 miles (about 1.5 hours)

  • Size: 5,000 acres

  • Highlights: Lake Tillery is a reservoir on the Pee Dee River that supports various motorized boating activities. With its clear waters and scenic shoreline, it's a favorite among boaters and anglers alike. Lake Tillery

10. Tuckertown Reservoir (Davidson County, NC)

  • Distance from Raleigh: Approximately 80 miles (about 1.5 hours)

  • Size: 2,560 acres

  • Highlights: Tuckertown Reservoir is part of the Yadkin-Pee Dee River system and allows motorized boating. It's less developed than some other lakes, offering a more secluded boating experience amidst natural surroundings. Tuckertown Reservoir

Embrace the Lake Lifestyle

As water enthusiast ourselves, we at Southern Oaks Realty, recognize the unique appeal of the boating lifestyle. Whether you're seeking a permanent residence with direct lake access, a vacation home or a home within an easy drive of these beautiful waters, our team is here to assist you in finding the perfect property that aligns with your boating lifestyle. Contact us today to explore available listings and make your dream a reality.

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