Swimmable Lakes in and Around RTP? (appointed, rent, dangerous)

[kaupani]

Are there swimmable lakes in the RTP area? If so, please name a couple.
Thanks!

[SFspiderman]

Falls Lake and Jordan Lake are the biggest ones. Both have beach/swimming areas. If you're looking for more serious swimming outside of the small designated swimming areas, the best spot is the Beaverdam area of Falls Lake. No gasoline-powered boats are allowed there, so you'll pretty much only have to be aware of the occasional kayak or stand-up paddle board.

If you're used to crystal blue water, you'll definitely be disappointed. The surrounding shores at both lakes are pretty, but the water itself is decently murky so there's very little visibility in the water and you'll come out of the water with a nice little coating of muck.

[m378]

The water is pretty nasty to be honest. And there’s snakes which in my opinion makes them a a hard no for swimming.

[luv4horses]

Jordan Lake is a fun place for swimming and boating.
And it’s a reservoir, so the water is monitored.

[michgc]

They get gross in the heat of the summer and sometimes have high bacteria levels. People still swim in them, but I am always leery.

[Universe93B]

Jordan Lake and Falls Lake are fun - rent a boat and find a private area, bring some drinks/cokes/snacks and have fun.

Although to be honest, I've been afraid of Naegleria fowleri. But what are the chances? lol, but still...

https://www.wral.com/story/parents-o...safe/20296294/

[SFspiderman]

Yes, it's very gross in the heat of summer when the water gets up around 90. Last week being cool was a nice change though, dropping Beaverdam into the low 80s. I did about 7 miles there yesterday. Going back in tomorrow for a few more. Never seen a snake in the water while swimming there, but I'm sure they're around.

[cheapdad00]

Originally Posted by Universe93B

Jordan Lake and Falls Lake are fun - rent a boat and find a private area, bring some drinks/cokes/snacks and have fun.

Although to be honest, I've been afraid of Naegleria fowleri. But what are the chances? lol, but still...

https://www.wral.com/story/parents-o...safe/20296294/

That bacteria is prevalent when water temp is above 80F, so mid to late summer in the south. It also is prevalent in the top couple inches of muck that makes the bottom of the lake. So less risk of encountering it if you are swimming from a boat than if wading in from shore.

[kaupani]

Well, that pretty much answers it, the Atlantic it is!

Thanks all!

[CLT4]

If swimming in freshwater in the Carolinas in the summer, one needs to be cautious about the amoeba Naegleria fowleri. It is not dangerous if swallowed, but can be fatal if forced up the nose (jumping into water, diving, falling off water skis, et). You can practice caution by swimming with your head above water, holding your nose shut, or using nose clips.

Infection is VERY rare though... six cases of infection between 1962 through 2019. That compares to roughly 8 people per year drowning in North Carolina after getting caught in a rip current. All water activities have some degree of risk.