Jones Lake State Park - Elizabethtown, NC - North Carolina State Parks

Camping
Each of the 20 wooded campsites is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring/grill. Drinking water and a bathhouse are located nearby. One site has electrical and water hookups. However, the park does not offer a dump station for recreational vehicles. Reservations are suggested but campsites are available on a first-come first-served basis if not reserved.

Group camping
A primitive group campsite, available for organized groups, is open year-round. It includes a fire ring/grill, picnic tables, and benches. A bathhouse is located nearby. Available by reservation only and reservations must be made at least 48 hours in advance. No more than 35 people can occupy the site.

Hiking
The park is a great place for a hike! See the Trails page for more information.

Boating
A road to the lake for small craft is located at the west side of the picnic area. The access road ends at the lakeshore, and only motors that are 10 horsepower and under are allowed on the lake. Canoes and paddleboats may be rented at the boathouse adjacent to the pier from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day when lifeguards are on duty. See the Fees/FAQs/Rules page for more information. Vehicular access to Salters Lake requires a permit issued by park staff.

Fishing
Few fish species are present due to the water's acidity. Yellow perch are the most abundant; chain pickerel, catfish, chub suckers and blue-spotted sunfish also occupy the lakes. Pier fishing is allowed only from the lake trail access points.

Swimming
Enjoy the aquatic activities offered by this cool, tea-colored lake. The sandy beach of Jones Lake is ideal for sunbathing and the shallow water is a swimmer’s delight. A fee is charged for swimming from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day when lifeguards are on duty. See the Fees/FAQs/Rules page for more information. A concession stand and bathhouse are located nearby.

Picnicking
A picnic is a great way to enjoy a day out-of-doors. More than 50 tables and 15 grills are available at the picnic grounds. A grassy area, also available for picnicking, is adjacent to the beach where the shade of pine and cypress trees promises respite from the sun. The covered picnic shelter, perfect for a large gathering, will accommodate up to 100 people. Use of the picnic shelter is free of charge unless reservations are requested.

Picnic Shelters
Unreserved picnic shelters are available free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. However, the shelters are very popular, so reservations are strongly suggested.

The picnic shelter accommodates up to 100 people. Water, restrooms, concession stand, volleyball court, swimming canoeing, and boating are nearby. The shelter is handicap accessible.

Auditorium
The auditorium is located in the visitor center and accommodates up to 75 people. Exhibits, classroom, drinking water and restrooms are nearby. The building is handicap accessible. Reservations are required; please contact the park.

Classroom
The classroom is located in the visitor center and accommodates up to 35 people. Exhibits, auditorium, drinking water and restrooms are nearby. The building is handicap accessible. Reservations are required; please contact the park.