5. Lake Crabtree County Park

Lake Crabtree is another hidden gem within easy driving distance of Raleigh, Cary, and Morrisville. There are plenty of picnic and open areas to play with the kids and the best feature has to be the 520 acre lake. Resonable boat rental rates and sailing lessons are available. A two lane launch ramp is great for trailer boats (sail or electric, no gas please). There is also a separate area for car top launching of canoes/kyaks/etc. They are not kidding about a few shallow spots (about 3') in the lake. I have dragged the bottom with my centerboard a few times (3' 6" draft, board down). If you've ever wanted to learn how to sail, this lake, Lake Wheeler, or Lake Johnson are three great locations in the area to do it. No swimming is permitted in the lake.