Jordan Lake is the bigger of the two major lakes in the Triangle region of North Carolina (Falls Lake is the other). These two lakes provide the majority of the drinking water for the Triangle. They also represent the majority of boating opportunities. Both lakes are popular with kayakers, fishermen, and watersports enthusiasts.
The Farrington Point Boat Ramp is the farthest north of any of the boat ramps on Jordan Lake which means it is the closest to the major cities of the Triangle (Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill). Consequently, it can get busy on weekends, like, really busy. Our experience is that holidays, however, are not that bad. Not sure why, but Memorial Day, 4th of July, and Labor Day seem way less busy than your average Saturday.
Hot Tip:
If the ramp is busy, park on the right side (as you are facing the ramp). When the line to the ramp gets backed up, it is almost impossible to turn left to get into line. Someone has to let you into the line and, even then, your trailer blocks the outbound lane until you get enough room. Even if you have to walk further to park on the right side, it is worth it.
There are only two boat ramps on Jordan Lake that do not have a fee to launch and the Farrington Point boat ramp is one of the two. All of the rest are within the State Park areas and you have to pay an entrance fee. The Farrington Point boat ramp is also open 24/7 whereas the State Park ramps have closing times.
As you pull into the entrance you will follow a winding path through some large oak trees. On the right will be a gate and small parking area. This leads to dove hunting fields and it is not unusual to see a handful of trucks there during hunting season. Following the road in will get you to a split. Keep right to go to the boat ramp or turn left for a kayak launch.
The actual boat ramp is situated at the end of a big cul-de-sac with 4 ramps and 2 floating docks. There is perpendicular trailer parking along both sides of the road in. You have to be careful if you are having people meet you who are not pulling a trailer as the parking closest to the ramp is only for trailers. I have seen the Wildlife Agents ticket every car without a trailer. There is a non-descript sign about 3/4 of the way up the lot that shows where it is ok to park vehicles without trailers. Just be aware of that.
There are generally a couple of porta potties near the ramp, but they get a lot of use, so they are best avoided, if possible.
Conclusion and Shameless Plug
The Farrington Point Boat Ramp is the closest ramp to the Atlas Boatworks headquarters and consequently, we visit pretty frequently. Our favorite time is in summer evenings when the lake is basically empty and the sun sets late. If you are in North Carolina and looking for a seatrial, Jordan Lake would be a great choice and we’d be happy to meet you. Just give us a shout at [email protected] and we can set it up.
