Falls Lake Dam Recreation Area — Attraction in Wake Forest

Falls Lake Dam was constructed by the Army Corps of Engineers for flood control and a reservoir for drinking water. There are also a number of trails and recreation opportunities at the dam. The trailrace area is right below the dam and is very scenic. It provides access to the Neuse River Trail heading downstream on the river and the 60-mile Falls Lake Trail that runs along the south shore of the lake. Additional short hike options are found around the dam area. The visitor center has more information for those interested in learning about engineering and construction of the lake. There are many spots for beautiful views of the lake, especially in the fall. I visit here regularly to...

One of my family’s favorite places in Raleigh/Wake Forest to hang out on the weekends. The dam access road is closed on the weekends so it’s easy to stroll in along the road. The trails are great too and I can get “lost” for hours hiking or running. We love to paddle board on the lake side which is typically very quiet. Tubing on the river side can be fun when the Neuse is high enough. Fishing and picnicking seem to be the most popular activities on top of the dam. Great spot for watching both sunrises...

Very nice park/wildlife area. Beautiful views of the lake and the river. Good fishing along the dam. There is plenty of area to hike and a good deal of it is paved. There is a playground and a few areas with picnic tables. There is parking on top of the dam certain times of the day and parking just off Fall of Neuse with longer hours. You can also bike here and there is an education center as well. Very nice park area for the kids. You can also walk down under the dam to the...