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Hotels Overview

In the Raleigh-Durham/Chapel Hill area, also known as the "Triangle," you'll find everything from economy motels to convention hotels to bed-and-breakfasts in lovely historic districts. Most major chains are represented, and some hotels offer great weekend packages.

Be aware that May is graduation time for all of the Triangle's colleges and universities, so hotels and restaurants are booked solidly, often years in advance. Chapel Hill, in particular, has far fewer hotel rooms than either Durham or Raleigh, and finding a vacancy anytime other than summer can be tricky depending on what's happening in town on any given week. School-related events such as homecoming celebrations in the fall or a home basketball or football games can affect availability drastically, so book as far in advance as possible.

When you're planning your trip, always ask about special packages and possible off-season rates.

Clemmons State Forest (2411 Old Garner Rd., West Clayton. 919/553-5651), near Clayton, has campsites. You can camp at Jordan Lake (280 State Park Rd., Apex. 919/362-0586), which is between Apex and Pittsboro. The North Carolina State Fairgrounds (1025 Blue Ridge Rd. 919/821-7400) allow RV camping only. The 5,439-acre William B. Umstead State Park (8801 Glenwood Ave. 919/571-4170), between Raleigh and Durham, has campsites.