This 13,900-acre lake is located within a 45-minute drive south of
Raleigh and
Durham east of SR 55, north of US 64 and west of US 15/501.
In addition to the dam being one of the state's most important resources, the lake offers recreational opportunities throughout the year. The state operates six recreation areas which are located on both sides of the lake, providing amenities such as camping, swim beaches, bathhouses, boat launches, hiking trails, picnicking and shoreline and dock fishing.