Kerr Lake Area 3

For North Carolinians seeking the ultimate waterfront escape, Kerr Lake Area 3 provides a scenic and convenient base camp on the massive John H. Kerr Reservoir. Part of the sprawling Kerr Lake State Recreation Area—a collection of eight access areas surrounding the 50,000-acre lake—Area 3 offers dozens of highly sought-after campsites right on the shoreline. This area is particularly attractive to campers who enjoy a beautiful lake view and appreciate the comfort of electric and water hookups at their site.

This Campground is primarily a seasonal spot, typically opening in the late spring and closing after Labor Day, though the full Kerr Lake park system ensures some areas remain open year-round for the dedicated camper. Guests consistently praise the nice view of the lake and the pretty shaded setting. As with all popular recreation areas, there are minor trade-offs, such as some sites being close together and the dump station sometimes requiring a wait. However, the overall friendly atmosphere, beautiful weather, and access to one of the East Coast's premier fishing and boating lakes make Kerr Lake Area 3 a top choice for a family-friendly (it's rated good for kids) camping trip in the North Carolina piedmont.

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### Introduction / Overview

Kerr Lake Area 3 is a dedicated camping section within one of the seven official campgrounds managed by the Kerr Lake State Recreation Area, North Carolina State Parks system. The exact location is often associated with the Hibernia Access Area or Satterwhite Point, though the specific 'Area 3' designation can vary based on the specific campground (e.g., Nutbush or Hibernia). It generally includes a specific sequence of numbered sites, for instance, sites 113-152 at Hibernia or sites 51-61, 83-109 at Nutbush, depending on the map.

The sites are designed for both RVs and tents and often feature electric hookups (usually 30 amp or more) and water hookups. Sites are mostly "back-in" style, as noted by a customer review, which is important for RV owners to consider when planning their lake view. The terrain is usually wooded, offering substantial shade—a welcome feature during hot North Carolina summers. The recreation area operates on a fee system, and reservations are highly recommended, especially for weekend stays and during the peak season when Area 3 is fully open.

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### Location and Accessibility

Kerr Lake Area 3 is located near Henderson, NC 27537, USA, and the provided geographic marker is CJ43+P3. This places it firmly in Vance County, North Carolina, just south of the Virginia border. The Kerr Lake State Recreation Area is easily accessed via Interstate 85.

Accessibility features for campers include:

• Electric/Water Sites: Most sites in Area 3 are equipped with electric and water hookups, accommodating various trailer and RV sizes (often up to 50 feet or more in length).
• On-site Parking: Each site features on-site parking for the primary camping unit and sometimes a second vehicle. Campers should be mindful of fire pit access and neighbor's space, as sites can sometimes be close.
• Lake Proximity: Many sites are situated very close to the lake shoreline, offering direct access for fishing or just enjoying the view.
• Dump Station: A centrally located dump station is available for RVs and trailers, though it is important to budget time for departure, especially on busy weekend mornings, as the process is one camper at a time.

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### Services Offered

The services offered in Kerr Lake Area 3 are designed to provide essential comfort while retaining a close-to-nature state park experience.

• Campsite Utilities: Includes electric hookups (30/50 amp) and water hookups at many of the sites. Note that sewer hookups are generally not provided in the Kerr Lake State Recreation Area campgrounds.
• Sanitation: Access to a bath house with flush toilets and hot showers is provided. While guests note cleanliness, they suggest waiting a few minutes after the daily cleaning due to heavy chlorine use. Privacy in the women's shower stalls may be limited.
• Recreation: The area supports Hiking with easy access to the park's network of trails, including gentle, kid-friendly paths through the woods.
• Family Amenities: The area is certified as "Good for kids" and has access to a nearby playground, common in the main access areas of Kerr Lake SRA.
• Water Access: Campers have convenient access to the lake for fishing, swimming, and boating, with multiple boat ramps available across the Kerr Lake SRA property.

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### Features / Highlights

The core highlights of Kerr Lake Area 3 are its stunning location on the reservoir and the balance it strikes between nature and necessary amenities.

• Prime Lakefront Location: The most significant feature is the high concentration of lakefront sites with beautiful views and immediate access to the 50,000-acre reservoir for all water sports.
• Shaded Sites: The wooded setting ensures most sites are well-shaded by towering pines and hardwoods, providing a cool retreat during the humid North Carolina summer.
• Reliable Utilities: The availability of electric and water hookups at most sites makes for a comfortable and easy RV or trailer camping experience.
• Multi-Season Use: While Area 3 is seasonal, the overall Kerr Lake SRA system offers year-round camping in other nearby areas (like Nutbush and J.C. Cooper), making it a reliable destination throughout the year.
• Water Sports Haven: Kerr Lake is nationally recognized for fishing (especially bass and crappie) and is ideal for boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

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### Contact Information

For reservations, current seasonal hours (especially in the shoulder season of early November), and specific information about site dimensions and bathhouse status, North Carolina campers should contact the main Kerr Lake State Recreation Area office.

Address (Approximate): CJ43+P3, Henderson, NC 27537, USA (Within Kerr Lake SRA)

Park Office Phone: (252) 438-7791

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### What is Worth Choosing

Kerr Lake Area 3 is definitively worth choosing for any North Carolina family or RV traveler whose priority is lakefront access, reliable hookups, and a heavily shaded site. You should choose Area 3 if you plan on spending most of your time on the water or need the convenience of a quick lake entry and exit.

While the sites are noted to be back-in and potentially close to neighbors, the trade-off is often a stunning lake view and the chance to enjoy a quiet, shaded setting on weekdays and in the shoulder season. The combination of easy hiking access and being good for kids ensures a classic, action-packed state park vacation. For a comfortable, scenic, and well-supported stay on one of North Carolina's largest reservoirs, Kerr Lake Area 3 is an outstanding choice.

Kerr Lake Area 3

CJ43+P3, Henderson, NC 27537, USA