Jordan Lake Educational State Forest

Nice trails, not crowded at all. Many opportunities to check out the lakeshore. Definitely pay attention to the hours on the website - google currently displays the winter hours

I visited Jordan Lake Educational State Forest for a hike in summer. It was hot, but the forest canopy provided shade for much of the hike. There are a couple miles of trails in the forest, the longest is two miles and then three short half-mile loops. The trails are blazed and signed and very easy to follow. There are spur paths that lead out to the lake and a good number of wildflowers blooming along the trail. I also saw a pair of nesting osprey on the lake that were collected sticks for their nest. The hours are more limited compared to state parks, but also a lot less crowded.

Beautiful mostly flat hiking area. It can flood so be careful after big rains. The longest trail is only 2 miles but you can add on to enjoy the beautiful views

Nice trails to walk on very beautiful along the lake. No beach is there however.