Jordan Lake State Recreation Area is in Chatham County, about 30 miles west of downtown Raleigh. Its seven access areas offer camping, boating and swimming. More than 1,000 campsites at five accesses accommodate tents, trailers, RVs and groups. The lake is one of the largest summer homes of the bald eagle, and an observation platform helps with viewing. It is one of the state's busiest recreation areas.