Kerr Lake Area 3

For North Carolinians seeking a tranquil retreat into nature, where the gentle sounds of the lake and rustle of leaves replace the everyday bustle, Kerr Lake Area 3 Campground offers a compelling choice. Situated within the expansive and beloved Kerr Lake State Recreation Area in Henderson, this campground provides a serene environment perfect for unwinding, observing wildlife, and enjoying the natural beauty that defines our state. It's a destination that caters to those who value peace and quiet, particularly during weekdays or the quieter seasons, making it an ideal local getaway.

Kerr Lake Area 3 is known for its picturesque setting, with many sites offering beautiful views of the lake and ample shade provided by mature trees. While it's part of a larger, popular recreation area, this specific section offers a more secluded feel, especially outside of peak weekend times. Whether you're looking to cast a line, watch the diverse birdlife, or simply enjoy a quiet evening by the campfire, Area 3 provides a peaceful backdrop for your outdoor adventures. It’s a testament to the diverse camping experiences available right here in North Carolina.

Understanding the specific features and atmosphere of Kerr Lake Area 3 can greatly enhance your planning and overall enjoyment. This article aims to provide a clear, factual overview of the campground, detailing its location, the services and features typical of such a site within the state park system, and why it remains a suitable choice for North Carolinians seeking an accessible and enriching outdoor escape.

Kerr Lake Area 3 Campground is located at CJ43+P3, Henderson, NC 27537, USA. This address places it firmly within the vast expanse of Kerr Lake State Recreation Area, a significant and popular reservoir that spans the border between North Carolina and Virginia. The campground is specifically situated on the North Carolina side of the lake, in the vicinity of Henderson.

Henderson, North Carolina, serves as the primary gateway town for visitors to this section of Kerr Lake. It offers all essential services and conveniences that campers might need, including grocery stores, gas stations, local dining options, and other retail outlets. These amenities are typically within a reasonable driving distance from the campground, allowing for easy resupply without having to venture too far from the natural setting.

Access to Kerr Lake Area 3 is generally straightforward via well-maintained state roads that lead into the Kerr Lake State Recreation Area. From major interstate highways like I-85, travelers can easily navigate towards Henderson and then follow clear signage directing them to the various campground areas within Kerr Lake. The roads within the campground are designed to accommodate RVs of various sizes, though it's noted that "most of the sites here are back in," which is a consideration for larger rigs regarding ease of parking and preferred lake views. The overall accessibility makes it a convenient and desirable destination for North Carolinians looking for a lakeside retreat without an overly long journey.

As a component of the North Carolina State Parks system within the Kerr Lake State Recreation Area, Kerr Lake Area 3 Campground provides a range of services and amenities common to developed campsites.

• Designated Campsites: The campground offers individual campsites primarily designed as "back in" sites. These sites are equipped with a fire ring and a picnic table, essential for traditional camping activities.
• Water Hookups: While not explicitly stated for every site, it is standard for state park campgrounds to provide access to potable water, either directly at some sites or via communal spigots within the camping loop.
• Electricity Hookups: Most developed RV sites within state parks typically offer electric hookups (commonly 30-amp, with some 50-amp options available) to power RVs and other camping equipment.
• Bathhouses with Showers: The campground provides communal bathhouses with flushing toilets and showers. Reviews indicate that the "men's side seemed to be okay with three shower stalls. Sufficient hot water and pressure. Cleaned every morning," although privacy in showers has been noted as a potential issue.
• Waste Disposal: Facilities for waste disposal, such as dumpsters, are available within the campground for campers to properly manage their trash and recycling.
• Lake Access: The campground's location provides access to Kerr Lake for various water-based activities. While direct water access from every site isn't guaranteed, the proximity to the lake allows for fishing, bird watching, and enjoying the views.
• Shade: The area is described as "pretty shaded," offering natural relief from the sun, which is a significant amenity during warmer months.
• Quiet Atmosphere: Especially during weeknights and off-peak seasons, the campground offers a "quiet" environment, ideal for peaceful relaxation.
• Bird and Fish Viewing: The natural setting provides opportunities for "lots of birds and fish to look at," catering to nature enthusiasts and anglers.

• Peaceful and Quiet Atmosphere: A major highlight, particularly during "weeknights" and in "early November," is the "quiet" and "almost deserted" nature of the campground. This makes it ideal for campers seeking tranquility and a serene escape.
• Beautiful Lake Views: Many campsites offer a "nice view of the lake," providing picturesque scenery and a calming backdrop for your camping experience.
• Abundant Natural Shade: The area is described as "pretty shaded," which is a significant advantage, especially during warm North Carolina summers, offering natural cooling and comfort at the campsites.
• Excellent Birdwatching Opportunities: Reviewers specifically mention "lots of birds...to look at," highlighting the campground's appeal for birdwatching enthusiasts, given its natural lakeside habitat.
• Fishing Opportunities: The presence of "fish to look at" and the overall lake environment suggest good opportunities for fishing, a popular activity on Kerr Lake.
• Functional Men's Bathhouse: The men's bathhouse is noted for being "okay with three shower stalls," having "sufficient hot water and pressure," and being "Cleaned every morning," providing essential and generally reliable facilities.
• Accessibility to Kerr Lake: The campground provides direct proximity and access to the vast waters of Kerr Lake for various water activities, including boating and fishing.
• Ideal for Smaller Rigs/Tear Drops: For campers with "small teardrop" or similar compact rigs, the back-in sites offer the flexibility to "pull in, detach, and then back the truck out," potentially allowing for a lake-facing setup.
• Proximity to Henderson: While not a direct park feature, the convenience of being located near Henderson offers easy access to supplies and amenities, making camping more convenient.
• Off-Season Charm: The descriptions of the campground being "almost deserted" in early November highlight its appeal for those who prefer less crowded camping experiences, especially during cooler, quieter months.

As part of the North Carolina State Parks system (Kerr Lake State Recreation Area), Kerr Lake Area 3 Campground operates under a standardized fee structure determined by the NC Division of Parks and Recreation. Consequently, traditional commercial "promotions" or "special offers" (such as discounts for bundling services or seasonal sales) are generally not a feature of state park campgrounds. The pricing is fixed based on campsite type and amenities.

However, the state park system does provide inherent value and may offer some consistent rate benefits:

• Affordable Rates: State park camping fees are typically more affordable than many private campgrounds, offering excellent value for the quality of the natural setting and basic amenities provided.
• Senior Discounts: A standard senior discount is usually available for individuals aged 62 and over, with verification required upon arrival. This can provide a consistent reduction in daily camping rates.
• Annual Passes/Programs: While not specific to campsite discounts, the NC State Parks system might offer annual passes or programs that provide benefits for frequent visitors across multiple parks (e.g., entrance fee waivers at other day-use areas), which could indirectly enhance the overall value for avid state park users.

Reservations for campsites at Kerr Lake Area 3 are highly recommended, especially for weekend stays during peak seasons (typically spring through fall). Booking in advance, particularly for specific sites with desirable views or shade, is crucial due to the campground's popularity. Reservations can typically be made online through the official NC State Parks reservation portal (e.g., ReserveAmerica) or by calling the park office directly.

To inquire about availability, current rates, or to make a reservation for Kerr Lake Area 3 Campground within the Kerr Lake State Recreation Area, please use the following contact details:

Address: 115 Jack Wade Farm Rd, Henderson, NC 27537, USA. (This address is often associated with the park office or a main entrance, encompassing various areas within Kerr Lake, including Area 3.) The provided "CJ43+P3" is a Plus Code, pinpointing the specific geographic location of Area 3.

Phone for Kerr Lake State Recreation Area (Park Office): (252) 438-7791

Mobile Phone: +1 252-438-7791

As Kerr Lake Area 3 is part of the larger state park, contacting the main park office by phone is the most effective way to get accurate and up-to-date information regarding specific site features, availability, and to complete your booking. It is always advisable to call ahead, especially during busy periods or if you have specific site requirements.

For North Carolinians seeking a peaceful and accessible outdoor escape, Kerr Lake Area 3 Campground offers a highly suitable option within their home state. Its appeal for locals stems from its unique blend of tranquility, natural beauty, and practical conveniences.

Firstly, the campground's emphasis on being "quiet" and often "almost deserted" during weeknights and off-peak seasons is a significant draw for locals desiring a genuine break from urban noise and crowds. This allows for a deeper immersion in nature, perfect for unwinding and rejuvenating. The "pretty shaded" sites and "nice view of the lake" further enhance this serene atmosphere, creating a truly relaxing environment that many North Carolinians cherish in their outdoor pursuits.

Secondly, the abundant opportunities for "lots of birds and fish to look at" cater directly to popular local interests in wildlife observation and angling. For North Carolina nature enthusiasts, it provides an accessible habitat for diverse species, making every visit a potential discovery. Being able to enjoy these natural spectacles within a short drive from home adds immense value.

Lastly, as part of the North Carolina State Parks system, Kerr Lake Area 3 offers reliable basic amenities and a well-managed environment. While there might be occasional minor issues (like privacy in women's showers), the presence of clean men's restrooms with sufficient hot water and pressure, along with available bathhouses, ensures a comfortable stay. Its proximity to Henderson means locals can easily access supplies at places like Walmart, eliminating common camping worries. For North Carolinians, Kerr Lake Area 3 isn't just a campground; it's a conveniently located, tranquil sanctuary where they can reconnect with nature, pursue their outdoor passions, and experience the quiet beauty of their own state.