The Top 20 Lakes in Wake County
Looking to visit the best lakes in Wake County? After all, there’s nothing better than the serenity of the lakeshore — or a quick dip when the weather’s warm. So, browse our list of Wake County’s top lakes below as recommended by the komoot community, and experience more on your next adventure!
Last updated: December 9, 2025
Lake Crabtree on the Crabtree Creek Greenway
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
The Crabtree Creek Greenway Trail stretches over 19 miles, connecting Morrisville, Cary, and Raleigh. This asphalt trail runs through forested greenways, city parks, residential areas, and business districts. It offers …
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Fred G. Bond Metro Park
Highlight • Rest Area
Also accessible for wheelchairs.
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Reedy Creek Trailhead at Lake Crabtree
Highlight • Trail
This trailhead sits along Lake Crabtree at the north end of Black Creek Greenway. There is ample parking, restrooms, water, and a bike station, making it an ideal spot to …
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Reedy Creek Lake Trail
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
It's a multi use trail, crossing Crabtree Creek and passing by Reedy Creek Lake. Wide and open, goes between vibrant green trees, with a good view to the lake.
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Shelley Lake
Highlight • Lake
Shelley Lake is a common swimming and fishing hole. The lake was named after John Francis Shelly, who received the lake and the land around it as a payment for his service in the Civil War.
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Lake Raleigh
Highlight • Lake
This lake is a pleasant spot for fishing, but it's crucial to stay within the designated area. Additionally, you have the option to canoe or kayak on the lake, but …
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Crabtree Park
Highlight • Natural
With over 520 acres of land, Crabtree Park is a pleasant park in Raleigh with a lake, gardens, and self-named trail.
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Fishing Dock at Apex Community Lake
Highlight • Lake
One of the many offerings at Apex Community Park is this fishing dock. The lake is stocked with channel catfish and this makes for a great spot to spend the …
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Small natural Bridge
Highlight • Trail
An area of raised ground that bypasses an optional loop addition to the trail and allows for views of bodies of water on each side for a short distance.
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Big Lake
Highlight • Lake
Nice place to take a break and enjoy this beautiful lake surrounded by trees, it's also a good place for bird watching.
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