Updates to Paddling Eastern North Carolina (second edition) January 21, 2017
Google Earth Placemarks
Google Earth Placemarks are available to show the put-ins and take-outs for all stream sections listed in the Second Edition of Paddling Eastern North Carolina. For details: http://pocosinpress.com/Maps.htm Cape Fear Basin
Black River
Section 2, page 43 The Nature Conservancy has purchased 106 acres that include the high bluff (mi 2.7) covered with mountain laurel, known as Sugarloaf Bluff. The bluff is said to be the highest on the Black River. Danny Baldwin (910-990-6234) has a campground at Mossy Log, just upstream right of the NC 41 bridge. It is about 300 feet from the Mossy Log boat ramp to the bridge. Rates are $18 for full hookup, $15 for electric and water hookup only, and $10 for a tent site. A bathroom is available. The campground is closed during January and February.
Sections 3–4, pages 43–44 Don Meece’s email has changed: [email protected] The private, gated access near Wildcat Road is no longer available. Access at Wildcat Road is difficult. Paddlers have used upstream left of the Wildcat Road for access by parking on the road shoulder before reaching the guardrail and walking to the river with the guardrail to their left to avoid avoiding trespass on the landowner’s property to the right. Paddlers have also used downstream left of the bridge, walking along the power line easement.
Section 5, page 44 The primitive campsite managed by Cape Fear River Watch is no longer available because of a land ownership change.
Section 6, pages 45–46 This section was paddled June 24, 2007 at very low water. USGS gauge Black River near Tomahawk was 30 cfs, 1.49 feet. The gauge across the river from the ramp at Henry’s Landing was 0.7 feet. There was enough water for paddling until where the Narrows goes left and the swamp forest route goes right. No water was flowing into the Narrows. The swamp forest route had enough water to paddle except for a few areas requiring walking. Total distance walked was a few hundred feet. Flagging in the swamp forest route has been removed. Alligator weed is growing in areas and can be dense in Three Sisters Swamp. It makes paddling more difficult in low water.
Sections 7–8, pages 47–48 The Borough access, near the confluence of Moores Creek and the Black River, is closed. The nearest public access is the put-in for Moores Creek Section 1 (page 116).
Page 1 of 21 Updates to Paddling Eastern North Carolina (second edition) January 21, 2017
Cape Fear River
Section 2, page 53 Cape Fear RV and Canoe Center in Lillington is closed. Cape Fear River Adventures is located in Lillington near the US 401/421 bridge. They rent canoes and kayaks and offer shuttle services. Call 919-495-5555 or see: http://www.capefearadventures.com/
Sections 3–4, pages 53–55 The new riverside park at Erwin is open and offers easy access to the river, upstream left of the NC 217 bridge.
Section 7, page 56 Paddlers can arrange to go through the locks instead of portaging during normal business hours Monday - Friday, 8am - 4pm. Reservations are required and 48 hours advance notice is appreciated. Currently, there are no lockages on weekends or Government Holidays. Please contact Lockmaster Buddy Ray at 910-874-0883 or Email: [email protected] Due to staff shortages and schedules, there may be times where lockages are not possible.
Section 10, page 58 See the Section 7 update information above for arranging to lock through Lock # 2.
Section 12, page 59 At Lock and Dam 1, rock ramps replace the previous 11.5-foot dam. Portage to the right of the lock or make arrangements to go through the lock. Paddling the whitewater through the rock ramps is not allowed. See the Section 7 update information above for arranging to lock through Lock # 1.
Section 13, pages 60–61 The boat ramp at Dram Tree Park has been renovated, and a canoe and kayak launch has been added.
Deep River
Section 3, page 71 At the take-out, park on the road shoulder, downstream right of the NC 42 bridge. The gate to the drive leading to the river is locked, but the landowner has been allowing paddlers to walk to the river.
Sections 9–10, pages 75–76 A concrete boat ramp is upstream left of the Camelback Bridge at Deep River Park.
Page 2 of 21 Updates to Paddling Eastern North Carolina (second edition) January 21, 2017
(Deep River, continued)
Section 10, page 76 Endor Iron Furnace is being restored. The base of the existing structure is cloaked by tarps and a wooden roof. Many of the furnace’s large rocks are on the ground awaiting restoration, which will not happen until $1 million is raised to complete the project.
Haw River
Sections 1–2, page 89–90
Parking was best off Running Creek Road/Grist Road, upstream right (not left) of the Troxler Mill Road bridge.
Section 2, pages 89–90 An access area has been added downstream left of the pumping station near the Brooks Bridge Road bridge.
Sections 2–3, pages 89–91 The Altamahaw Access at NC 87 has been improved. A parking area is available upstream left of the mill sluice channel. A pedestrian bridge allows crossing the sluice without having to walk the highway bridge.
Section 3, pages 90–91 The Shallow Ford Natural Area, a 200-acre river park, is now open. It is upstream left of the Gerringer Mill Road (Alamance Co. 1561) bridge (mi 2.7). A paddle access is at the bridge, and a paddle access upstream on the left bank (mi 2.1) allows access to campsites. The park also includes about 10 miles of hiking trails.
Sections 3–6, pages 90–94 River Run Outfitters (http://www.riverrunoutfitter.com) offers trips and rentals on river sections mainly in Alamance County.
Sections 3–4, pages 90–92 Property upstream of the gate at Glencoe Mills Dam is owned by Alamance County and is the future site for Glencoe River Park. A portage trail for the dam begins 200 feet upstream left of the dam. To end the trip after portaging, go another 200 feet to the gate. To continue downstream, cross the small steel bridge over the mill sluice and go down the bank to reenter the river. At NC 62 and River Road, upstream left of the NC 62 bridge, a small Alamance Parks & Recreation park allows for paddling access. The entry drive is 100 feet up River Road from NC 62.
Page 3 of 21 Updates to Paddling Eastern North Carolina (second edition) January 21, 2017
(Haw River, continued)
Section 4, page 92 Burlington Parks and Recreation has opened Town & Country Access (mi 3.4) on the right bank. To drive to the access from US 70, turn north onto Sellars Mill Road. Go 0.5 miles and turn right onto Hyde Street. Go 0.8 miles to the T-junction at Riverside Drive. Turn right, go about 400 feet to the end of Riverside Drive, and park in the small lot. Walk down the trail to the left about 200 yards to reach steps at the riverbank. Red Slide Park is 800 feet upstream right of the NC 49 bridge. Lang Street leads from NC 49 to the park. Steps to the river provide paddling access, about 100 feet upstream of the old, broken dam at Cone Mills.
Section 5, pages 92–93 A Burlington-Swepsonville River Park access is upstream right of the confluence with Alamance Creek (mi 2.5) off Boy Wood Road (Alamance Co. 2116). It has parking, boat ramp, and tent campsite. A walking trail connects to the Swepsonville River Park that begins about a half-mile upstream off Boy Wood Road. The parks have three tent campsites. The old dam (mi 1.9) near Swepsonville River Park has been removed. At the Swepsonville Dam (mi 3.1), a new landing dock has been built on the left by The Haw River Canoe & Kayak Co. to eliminate getting out of your boat in the mud. The landowner has erected portage signs and wire indicating the path around the dam. Please respect his property rights and do not trespass. Plans for the Puryear portage include a launching dock on the downriver side of the dam and improvements to the boat slide over the dam wing-wall. Just downstream left of the Swepsonville Dam (mi 3.1) is Spirit Island, which extends for a quarter-mile downstream. A camping platform has been built on the Island by The Haw River Canoe Company, http://www.hawrivercanoe.com/ or 336-260-6465. Here is their announcement: “Spirit Island is ready for permitted overnight camping and/or day use. Our 16’ X 20’ camping platform is the perfect place to “get away from the insanity of civilization”. A small boardwalk leading away from the platform connects to a private privy. When receiving your permit, you will be given a portable “john” containing enzymes and a gelling agent. All you need is some food, tent and a sleeping bag and pad. Spirit Island is located 4.5 miles upriver from our office in Saxapahaw, NC. The camping platform is modeled after the camping platforms in the Roanoke River swamps and is situated on the upriver end of the Island near a rapid. The sounds of falling water and secluded placement of the camping platform make an overnight experience on Spirit Island both refreshing and energizing.” The Boy Scouts access upstream of the Saxapahaw Dam has been improved and is now called Saxapahaw Lake Paddle Access. Vehicles can be driven to the dock during daylight hours. After unloading, park at one of the three gravel parking areas or in the paved parking lot next to the Mill Race Access (Section 6).
Section 6, page 94 Saxapahaw Mill Race Access is open at Saxapahaw near the Community Center building, upstream left of the Church Road (Alamance Co. 2171) bridge. Entrance to the parking lot is from Swepsonville-Saxapahaw Road. Metal steps with railings extend from the bank to the river to allow boat access.
Page 4 of 21 Updates to Paddling Eastern North Carolina (second edition) January 21, 2017
(Haw River, continued)
Sections 6–7, pages 94–95 Union Bridge Access is open at the Old Greensboro Road (Orange Co. 1105) bridge. It has a parking area, metal steps, and railings extending from the bank to the river to allow boat access.
Section 9, page 96 Instead of starting on river right, it is also possible to put in 0.2 miles downstream on river left in Bynum at the Bynum Mill Access, part of the Lower Haw State Natural Area. It has a large, paved parking lot. To drive there, take Bynum Road (Chatham Co. 1713) on the east side of the river, go west, and turn left (600 feet before reaching the pedestrian bridge) onto Bynum Church Road. Go 0.2 miles and turn right into the parking lot. A trail leads 100 feet to the bank.
Holly Shelter Creek
Section 2, page 104 Justin Cavenaugh reported (April 2015) 4-6 downed trees that may require ducking under/climbing over in the first half mile. One tree in a bend that had picked up a significant amount of debris required portage.
Little Coharie Creek
Section 1, page 107 Friends of Sampson County Waterways reports tornados downed many trees between the NC 24 and Fleet Cooper Road bridges. Consider this section unnavigable until the obstructions can be cleared.
Lower Little River
Sections 2–3, pages 111–112 Paddlers from two different trips reported many downed trees between Manchester Road (Cumberland Co. 1451) and Elliott Bridge Road (Harnett Co. 2045).
Sections 3–4, pages 112–113 The campground, shuttle, and canoe rental service operated by Denton Ridge is no longer in business.
Page 5 of 21 Updates to Paddling Eastern North Carolina (second edition) January 21, 2017
Moores Creek
Section 1, page 116 Moores Creek National Battlefield is open from 9a.m.–5p.m. An easier put-in is available inside the park. After entering the park from NC 210, take the first right and continue to the parking lot. Moores Creek is about 50 feet from the end of the lot. This put-in is 0.8 miles upstream from the NC 210 bridge. The Borough access, near the confluence of Moores Creek and the Black River, is closed. Moores Creek must be paddled as a round trip.
Northeast Cape Fear River
Sections 3–4, pages 123–124 The drive leading to the large beach downstream right at Hallsville Road is private property has No Trespassing signs posted because of misuse. Use the upstream side of the bridge for access. Park on the road shoulder and carry to the river staying close to the road right-of-way.
Sections 4–5, page 124 A new Wildlife boating access is at Chinquapin, upstream left of the NC 41/50 bridge.
Rocky River
Sections 1–4, pages 139–142 A new USGS gauge, Rocky River at US 64 near Siler City, is available. Water from the gauge takes about 2 hours to reach the Section 2 put-in. For Section 4 (if rain is widespread), there will be two peaks: one about 3–4 hours after the new gauge peaks, and one about 7–10 after the gauge peaks. The first peak is from tributaries close to Section 4, and the second peak is from the upper Rocky River.
Town Creek
Sections 2–3, pages 158–159 Brunswick Nature Park, 911 acres, offers a floating dock for paddlers. To reach the park traveling north on NC 133 from the Town Creek bridge, go 0.3 miles and turn left into the park. Follow signs to the dock, about a mile. Using this dock shortens Section 2 by 2.8 miles and lengthens Section 3 by 2.8 miles.
Upper Little River
Section 1, page 161 Paddlers reported on a trip during December 2010 that beaver dams made paddling difficult.
Page 6 of 21 Updates to Paddling Eastern North Carolina (second edition) January 21, 2017
Chowan Basin
Bennetts Creek
Section 1, page 166 New paddle-in campsites are managed by Merchants Mill State Park. They are about a mile before reaching the NC 37 bridge at the end of Section 1. Three primitive sites, called High-Ground Campsites, are off the right bank (mi 4.4) [GPS: 36° 24.331’ N, 76° 44.210’ W]. Three primitive sites, called Campsites on Platforms, are off the right bank (mi 4.7) about 200 feet up a dead channel and to the paddler’s left [GPS: 36° 24.237’ N, 76° 44.283’ W]. Each site is limited to 6 people. See the Bennetts Creek Canoe-In Campground Map http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/memi/directions.php). Reservations are required (http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/memi/reserve.php).
Chowan River
Section 1, pages 169–170 Dockside Restaurant is closed. The ramp is open and the fee is now $5. A free public ramp is 2.2 miles upstream, downstream right of the US 258 bridge over the Nottoway River.
Meherrin River
Sections 1–3, pages 177–178 A paddler reported being disappointed by the amount of noise heard for over 24 hours during a canoe camping trip. The noise included a few probable chip mills (near Branchs Bridge Road and about 10 miles downstream) and noise from farm machinery and trains.
Warwick & Catherine Creeks
Section 1, page 191 The ground along the creeks is swampy. There are no places to get out of your boat unless you continue to Holiday Island downstream on the Chowan.
Page 7 of 21 Updates to Paddling Eastern North Carolina (second edition) January 21, 2017
Lumber Basin
Drowning Creek
Section 1, page 200 The US 1 bridge has been replaced, and access is more difficult now. Unload on the downstream right side and place boats and equipment over the guardrail. The road shoulder is very narrow. Drive over the bridge, make a U-turn, and park a few hundred feet from the bridge, where there is more room to park. Carry over riprap to launch under the bridge.
Section 2, page 201 A paddler reported on two trips in 2013. One trip paddling solo at 150 cfs (3.5 ft) had 10 downed trees to pull over. Paddling tandem at 250 cfs (4.6 ft), there were only 2 trees to pull over. These readings are from the USGS Drowning Creek near Hoffman gauge. Cynthia Grover reported measuring this section as 9.5 miles on a GPS rather than 7.6 miles listed in the book.
Lockwoods Folly River
Section 1, pages 208–209 Emma Thomas and some of her staff at The Adventure Kayak Company in Southport tried to paddle (Jan 2015) downstream from Gilbert Road, but within a quarter mile two large, downed trees blocked the river. Even with high water from a recent rain and high tide they could not find a way around the trees.
Lumber River
Section 1, page 208 This section has been paddled at 1.7 feet (50 cfs) on the USGS Drowning Creek near Hoffman gauge. Newly fallen trees are likely.
Section 2, page 209 Cypress Bend Vineyards (mi 4.7) is 0.4 miles off the right bank. It is 0.2 miles past powerlines. (http://www.cypressbendvineyards.com/cypress_bend_story.html) Where Riverton Road swings close to the river (mi 6.9) can no longer be used for access. The road shoulders have No Parking – Towing Enforced signs.
Section 5, page 210 An alternative access is The Wire Pasture (mi 5.1) on the right bank. The 90-acre Lumber River State Park tract amenities include picnic sites with mounted grills, bathrooms and a swimming area. It is at 11765 US 74 Hwy W Maxton, NC 28364. To reach it from White Hill Church off US 74, take the dirt drive going northwest a half mile to the river.
Page 8 of 21 Updates to Paddling Eastern North Carolina (second edition) January 21, 2017
(Lumber River, continued)
Sections 5–6, page 210 At the Recreation Center Road (Robeson Co. 1354) bridge, No Parking signs extend for several hundred feet on all sides of the road. It is possible to unload near the bridge and park beyond the signs. For an easier access, use Harpers Ferry Church, where NC 710 crosses 2.9 miles downstream from the Recreation Center Road bridge.
Section 7, pages 210–211 The John Culbreth Memorial paddle-in campsite is at mile 8.0 on the left bank. It has two fire-rings and picnic tables. The site is owned by Lumber River State Park.
Section 10, pages 212–213 Noise from the coal-burning Weatherspoon Plant is no longer heard. The plant has been retired and is being removed.
Section 14, page 215 Cutoffs now bypass several of the meanders, and the meanders are not navigable at low water. The total distance is 10.5 miles. River Bend Outfitters in Fair Bluff is closed. The ramp has been taken over by NC Wildlife Resources and is closed while improvements are being made. Paddlers can use upstream right of the bridge. Parking is possible on the NC 904 road shoulder. Al Pittman, south of Lumberton off Willoughby Road, arranges shuttles and rents canoes. Telephone: 910-738-4936 or email: [email protected] KC Bullard, owner/operator of Lumber River Canoe Rental, has canoes and kayaks for rent on Friday through Sunday. For more info, contact KC at 910-641-7139 or email: [email protected]
Section 15, page 215 At the NC/SC boundary line (mi 3.7), a concrete post is 3-4 feet high with an orange pipe next to it on the left bank.
Waccamaw River
Sections 3-4, page 225 Sarah Slover reported at Reeves Ferry Road (Columbus Co. 1943) “there are enough No Trespassing signs to scare off most anyone. These are not passive signs nailed to trees but rather signs on chains and ropes that block off where the ferry used to be.”
Section 5, page 225 Chris Anderson Landing, managed by South Carolina, is 300 feet downstream right of the SC 9 bridge. Estimated minimum is 200 cfs (3.1 ft) at the Waccamaw River near Longs, SC gauge.
Page 9 of 21 Updates to Paddling Eastern North Carolina (second edition) January 21, 2017
Neuse Basin
Contentnea Creek
Sections 8–9, pages 241–242 A new access with parking and ramp is upstream right of the NC 123 bridge at Hookerton.
Sections 10–11, page 242–243 South Street is now Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.
Eno River
Sections 3–4, pages 257–258 The old Duke Power dam just upstream of Pleasant Green Road has been removed.
Flat River
Sections 2–3, pages 264–265 The State Forest Road low water bridge has been replaced.
Little River (near Goldsboro) A new USGS gauge is available: Little River near Zebulon.
Section 5, page 278 The county park, where Lowell Mill Dam was removed, is finished and provides easy access. The Wildlife boating access downstream of Weaver Road (Johnson Co. 2144) is closed. Access is possible from the Weaver Road bridge.
Neuse River
Section 1, pages 285–286 Paddle Creek no longer has a retail shop, but they still offer rentals and shuttles on the Neuse River. http://www.paddlecreeknc.com/
Sections 2–5, pages 286–289 Raleigh Greenway’s Neuse River Trail now runs into Johnston County. It can be used to paddle these sections and use a bicycle for a shuttle.
Page 10 of 21 Updates to Paddling Eastern North Carolina (second edition) January 21, 2017
(Neuse River, continued)
Section 2, pages 286–287 River access at US 1 is possible. Paddle Creek leases and controls the access. It is no longer locked. They use a parking pass system, and parking passes can be purchased through their website at www.paddlecreeknc.com under the "extras" tab. The fees are $10 for one time or $20 for the rest of the year and go toward the upkeep and maintenance of the area. If the website does not answer your questions, call Paddle Creek at 919-866-1954.
Section 4, page 288 To reach the canoe access at Anderson Point Park: from New Bern Avenue, go south on North Rogers Lane, turn left on Neuse View Drive, turn right on Anderson Point Drive, and go 250 feet to the parking lot on the left.
Sections 5–6, pages 288–289 To reach the river from Mial Plantation Road bridge, use the downstream left side. Go down just to the side of the concrete bridge apron. The ground between the apron and riverbank had been mowed when checked April 2008. The wooden steps previously found at the riverbank were gone. The bank is 10–15 feet above water, steep, and very slippery when wet.
Section 8, page 290 Two camping platforms (12 ft x 12 ft covered and 30 ft x 30 ft uncovered) are at mile 16.3 off the right bank, 40–50 feet up Gar Gut Slough [GPS: 35° 24.148’ N, 78° 16.992’ W]. Howell Woods Environmental Learning Center (http://www.johnstoncc.edu/howellwoods/) manages the platforms. Campfires are not allowed, and camping is not permitted during special hunt days. Reservations are required at a cost of $5 per tent. Contact: James Sasser at 919-938-0115 or [email protected]
Section 11, pages 291–292 Waynesborough State Park is now operated as Waynesborough Historical Village. (http://www.waynesboroughhistoricalvillage.com)
Section 14, page 293 A private access is available at Daly Campground (http://www.dalyrv.com/) on the right bank, 3.9 miles downstream from the NC 111 bridge. They charge $5 per boat. To reach the campground traveling south on NC 111, cross the Neuse River, go 100 yards, and turn left onto River Road SE (Wayne Co. 1741). Go to the end of the road and take the gravel drive to the campground.
Page 11 of 21 Updates to Paddling Eastern North Carolina (second edition) January 21, 2017
(Neuse River, continued)
Sections 18–19, pages 295–296 A Wildlife boating access is 400 feet upstream right of the Maple Cypress Road (Craven Co. 1470) bridge. The access drive connects to Maple Cypress Road a quarter mile from the bridge.
Section 20, pages 296–297 The public access at mile 2.2 is named Spring Garden Landing.
Trent River
Sections 1–2, pages 305–306 Paddlers and fishermen are now using River Road (Jones Co. 1169) to access the river at Comfort. River Road is a dirt road off NC 41, 0.1 miles east of the post office.
Sections 3–4, page 306 A new access, managed by Jones County, is 200 feet upstream left of the Chinquapin Chapel Road bridge. It is reached from Plantation Road (Jones Co. 1131), which joins Chinquapin Chapel Road 50 feet from the bridge.
Section 8, page 308 Evening Breeze Outfitters is closed.
Pasquotank Basin
Alligator River
Section 3, page 318 A paddler reported (March 2010) being able to paddle about 6 miles up the Northwest and Southwest Forks without being hindered by alligator weed.
Jean Guite Creek
Section 1, page 332 Kitty Hawk Kayaks Paddling Center (252-261-0145) charges $5 to use their access.
Perquimans River
Section 1, page 341 Teachers Park is at the NC 37 bridge, downstream right. It has gravel parking area, picnic area, and concrete ramp.
Page 12 of 21 Updates to Paddling Eastern North Carolina (second edition) January 21, 2017
Roanoke Basin
Cashie River
Section 1, pages 357–358 A small campground is next to the Wildlife boating access (mi 0.7) mentioned as an alternative put-in. RVs are on the outside of the loop. There are a few tables and grills on the inside of the loop. Tent camping is $2 per day, paid to an honor box.
Section 3, pages 359–360 The take-out at the end of Shipyard Landing Road on Cashoke Creek is owned by Ricky Hughes (252-217-9322). He charges $3 per boat for launching and parking. Plans include rental cabins, tent camping, and shuttle service.
Dan River
Section 1, pages 369–370 Scheduled water releases from the Pinnacles Hydroelectric Plant are listed at: http://www.danvilleutilities.com/
Section 2, page 371 The old bridge (mi. 9.5) at Joyce Mill Road has been removed.
Section 4, page 372 Hanging Rock Outdoor Center has closed. Big Creek joins the Dan at mi 6.6 of Section 4. Some paddlers put in or take out on Big Creek, upstream left of the NC 268 (Lynchburg Road) bridge. It is 500 feet downstream on Big Creek to reach the Dan River. There is little parking at NC 268. Park on the shoulder of NC 89. The Dan River Company leases a private access near the NC 268 bridge over Big Creek. The shuttle fee from their shop near the Section 6 put-in is $12 for the first boat and $5 each for the next three. See: http://www.danrivercompany.com/
Sections 4-5, pages 372-373 Moore’s Springs Campground has reopened. Camping is $10 per person, which includes use of river access. Non-campers may use the land for paddle access for $5 per person. They do not have full-time staff at the campground. NC leases the land to the company managing the campground. Call: 336-830-5070 or visit: http://mooresspringscampground.blogspot.com/
Section 7, page 374 At the mouth of Snow Creek (mi 3.8), an alternative access is up Snow Creek, downstream left of the Pitzer Road bridge. Using it requires paddling or walking 300 feet up Snow Creek. The alternative access at Dodgetown Road is on the Dan River, 500 feet downstream left from the Snow Creek mouth.
Sections 7-8, pages 374–375 Access at Power House Road adjacent to Hemlock Golf Course has been restored.
Page 13 of 21 Updates to Paddling Eastern North Carolina (second edition) January 21, 2017
(Dan River, continued)
Sections 8-9, pages 374–375 A new bridge is at Pine Hall Road. Bushwhacking to the river is no longer required, but there is a steep hill.
Section 10, page 376 Eagle Falls Outfitters is now Dan River Adventures, located at the Dan River Campground. See: http://www.danriveradventures.com/
Section 12, page 377 The Duke Energy Dan River Steam Station downstream of NC 14/87/770 was the site of the massive coal ash spill in February 2014. Cleanup operations are ongoing. A new access, Draper Landing, is downstream right of the NC 700 bridge at Eden
Section 13, page 378 Dan River Park, off Memorial Drive in Danville, has been reopened and renamed Abreu-Grogan Park. A boat ramp is available.
Section 14, page 380 The Brantley Steam Plant Dam has been removed.
Roanoke River
Sections 2–3, pages 400–401 Halifax platform is now called Tusca Landing platform.
Sections 5–6, pages 402–403 The Bluffs platform is now called The Bluff platform.
Sections 8–9, pages 404–405 River Landing platform is now available. It is only about a 100-foot walk from the US 13/17 Wildlife boating access. It is connected to the River Landing Boardwalk and features a screened and covered facility with restrooms and showers nearby and two bicycles, which can be used for a short ride on the connecting Skewarkee Trail to downtown.
To Albemarle Sound Spruill Farm Landing is a new campsite at Albemarle Sound. http://roanokeriverpartners.org/
Page 14 of 21 Updates to Paddling Eastern North Carolina (second edition) January 21, 2017
Smith River
Section 1, page 411 An access with parking and ramp is upstream left of the Mitchell Road bridge.
Section 2, pages 412–413 Island Ford Landing is a new boating access (mi 5.5) located downstream left of the NC 700/770 (Meadow Road) bridge. It is at the trailhead for the Smith River Greenway. An island divides the river downstream of the 700/770 bridge. Stay to the left to reach the access. To drive to it, take River Drive off 700/770.
Snow Creek
Section 1, page 415 A new access is available at the Pitzer Road bridge (mi 4.5) downstream left.
Tar-Pamlico Basin
Fishing Creek
Section 1, page 427 Tar River Land Conservancy reports 5.5 continuous miles of Fishing Creek protected in Halifax County. Land is on the north bank from NC 561 to NC 43.
Tar River
Section 1, page 448 The 4-foot dam reported at mile 3.2 was concrete on the left side of an island and stacks of boulders on the right side of the island. Justin Cavenaugh reported the boulders to the right of the island are no longer there. He was able to paddle the right side channel without portaging. Watch for strainers in this area.
Section 7, pages 451–452 The John Vollmer Memorial Platform campsite is on the right bank (mi 5.3). The platform is 16' by 32' with half enclosed by screening and a roof. Permits are required. For more information: http://www.tarpamlicowatertrail.org/
Section 9, page 452 Rocky Mount Parks & Recreation has improved access at the Old Bailey Highway (Nash Co. 1001) bridge on upstream right. Several vehicles can be parked behind the guardrail, where wooden steps lead down the first level of embankment.
Page 15 of 21 Updates to Paddling Eastern North Carolina (second edition) January 21, 2017
(Tar River, continued)
Section 10, pages 452–453 Rocky Mount Parks & Recreation has improved access at NC 58 on downstream left. A rough drive leads 100 feet to a small beach on the reservoir. Park on the road shoulder and portage gear along the drive. Rocky Mount Parks & Recreation provides a camping platform on an island in an arm of the Tar River Reservoir. A roof covers half the platform, and a fire-ring is provided. A permit is required (252-972-1151). The fee is $10 per night per person. To paddle to the platform from the boat ramp off Bend In The River Road (Nash Co. 1745), paddle under the bridge, go 500 feet, and bear left into an arm of the reservoir. Continue a mile to the Old Carriage Road (Nash Co. 1603) bridge. A boat ramp is left just past the bridge. Continue 0.4 miles through a left bend, where an island can be seen a half-mile ahead. Pass just to the right of the island and look to the left for a small dock [GPS: 35° 52.948’ N, 77° 55.156’ W]. The platform is just behind the dock but difficult to see through trees.
Section 11, pages 453–454 Rocky Mount Parks & Recreation provides a new access just upstream right of the Nashville Road bridge. The access is a quarter-mile downstream from the Griffin Street access. Parking and river access are better at the new Nashville access, where wooden steps and a boat slide are close to parking spaces. Traveling north on Nashville Road, turn left into a parking area before crossing the bridge. Hammond Street makes a T-junction with Nashville Road on the right.
Section 12, pages 454–455 Rocky Mount Parks & Recreation provides a camping platform on an island about a quarter-mile downstream of Rocky Mount Mills Dam. Permits are required (252-972- 1151), and the fee is $10 per night per person. To reach the platform without having to portage around the dam, put in at the concrete boat ramp in Battle Park. The platform is a quarter-mile upstream from the ramp. Paddling upstream will require some effort at normal water flow. If water is flowing over the dam, it may not be possible to paddle against the current. The platform [GPS: 35° 57.631’ N, 77° 47.928’ W] is about 15 feet above the river. A wooden ladder extends from the riverbed to the platform. The platform does not have a roof, and posts are not high enough to support a tarp. A fire-ring is provided.
Section 13, page 455 The Bourne Farm Platform on the right bank (mi 7.1) is managed by Sound Rivers. The platform is 16' by 32' with half enclosed by screening and a roof. A permit is required, and the fee is $20 per night. For more information: http://www.tarpamlicowatertrail.org/
Section 15, page 456 The Panola Camping Platform on the right bank (mi 6.4) is managed by Sound Rivers. The platform is 16' by 32' with half enclosed by screening and a roof. It is on a steep bank with stairs leading from the river to near the platform. A permit is required, and the fee is $20 per night. More information: http://www.tarpamlicowatertrail.org/
Page 16 of 21 Updates to Paddling Eastern North Carolina (second edition) January 21, 2017
(Tar River, continued)
Section 16, page 456 The WRC Gamelands Platform on the left bank (mi 1.4) is managed by Sound Rivers. The platform is 16' by 32' with half enclosed by screening and a roof. A permit is required, and the fee is $20 per night. More information: http://www.tarpamlicowatertrail.org/
Section 18, pages 457–458 River Park North in Greenville has 3 primitive campsites on the left bank (mi 11.6). At Parker Creek’s mouth [GPS: 35° 36.988’ N, 77° 21.490’ W], paddle up the creek for about 100 feet to a pullout on the left side (as viewed paddling up the creek) near a small bridge. From here walk over the bridge on a trail leading (in the Tar River downstream direction) about 500 feet to the campsite on a high bank on the Tar River, downstream of Parker Creek’s mouth. A permit is required, and the fee is $10 per night. To avoid having to carry gear 500 feet, paddlers may want to walk the trail to the closest campsite to the river to note its location and then paddle downriver to the bank near the campsite. In late 2016, a platform (16' by 32' with half enclosed by screening and a roof) will replace the campsite closest to the river. Call Greenville Recreation and Parks: 252-329-4560 or see: http://www.greenvillenc.gov/government/recreation-parks/river-park-north
Section 21, page 459 The Cypress Hideaway Platform near the left bank (mi 3.3) is managed by Sound Rivers. The platform is 16' by 32' with half enclosed by screening and a roof. A permit is required, and the fee is $20 per night. More information: http://www.tarpamlicowatertrail.org/
White Oak Basin
Newport River
Pages 483–485 The Northwest Prong, Southwest Prong, and mainstem of the Newport River were cleared of downed trees in March 2008. The clearing crew reports that the primitive low bridge across the Northwest Prong, Section 1 (mi 0.5) was not seen.
White Oak River
Section 3, pages 491–493 The quarry lakes can no longer be used as an alternative access.
Sections 4–5, pages 493–495 Boon Docks, at the Stella bridge, charges $5 per boat to use their ramp. Pay at the honor box. Camping is available at Boon Docks for a fee. Boat access at White Oak Shores Camping & RV Resort is only allowed for paddlers camping there.
Page 17 of 21 Updates to Paddling Eastern North Carolina (second edition) January 21, 2017
Yadkin-Pee Dee Basin
Ararat River
Section 1, pages 501–502 Mount Airy has developed a greenway system along a stretch of the Ararat River. It includes 3 new paddling access areas: Riverside Park is upstream right of NC 103 (East Pine Street), and the park has a ramp to the river. It is 1 mile upstream of where Section 1 begins at Hamburg Street. No paddling reports have yet been received from this stretch. H.B. Rowe Park paddling access is 0.3 miles upstream right from Hamburg Street. From the Hamburg Street bridge, drive 300 yards west and turn right. Continue 300 yards to the loop near the greenway. Tharrington Park is 1 mile downstream of the Hamburg Street bridge on the right bank. To drive to it from the Hamburg Street bridge, go 0.4 miles west to South Main Street. Continue straight as Hamburg Street becomes Worth Street. Go 0.2 miles and turn left onto Spring Street, and continue 0.2 miles to just before where Spring Street will turn left to become Bluff Street. Turn right off Spring Street onto the drive leading 0.3 miles to the loop.
Section 2, page 501 An alternative access is available upstream right of the NC 268 bridge. A dirt drive leads to a steep bank.
Fisher River
Section 2, pages 509–510 The Bray Ford Public Fishing Area (mi 0.5) is downstream left of the bridge on Bray Ford Road (Surry Co. 2221). It provides easy boat access. The road is named Rockford Road on the right (west) side of the bridge.
Section 3, page 510 The Rockford bridge access is private. See the update for Yadkin River, Sections 11– 12. Paddling Fisher River Section 3 requires continuing on to the take-out for Yadkin River Section 12, requiring an 18.3-mile trip.
Page 18 of 21 Updates to Paddling Eastern North Carolina (second edition) January 21, 2017
Mitchell River
Section 2, page 520 An easier take-out is 0.2 miles downstream of the NC 268 bridge. It is downstream left of the railroad bridge across the Mitchell River at the confluence with the Yadkin River. To reach the access from Burch (aka Burch Station), take Greenwood Circle off NC 268 for 200 feet south, cross the railroad tracks, turn right, and go 800 feet to the parking lot.
Roaring River
Section 2, page 526 The easiest take-out is to continue 1.9 miles downstream on the Yadkin River and take out at the “Roaring River Public Fishing Access.” See the update for the Yadkin River Section 7 for details of this access. Using it adds 1.7 miles to the section distance.
Rocky River
Sections 2–3, pages 529–530 A new access is upstream right of the NC 205 bridge. Land for a nature park has been donated by Brooks Barnhardt. There is a locked gate at the driveway into the park. Paddlers are welcome to park on the road shoulder and carry past the gate to the river. To arrange to have the gate opened or to camp on at the park, call Brooks at 704-485-8795.
Section 5, page 530 Anson County built a canoe/kayak access (mi 4.0) downstream left of the Plank Road (Anson Co. 1621) bridge. The gate to the site will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. from March 1 to October 1, and from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. from October 1 to March 1. The trailhead address is 5347 Plank Road, Wadesboro.
Uwharrie River
Section 1, pages 546–5478 The Lassiter Mill Dam (mi 9.9) has been removed.
Sections 2–3, pages 547–548 The Low Water Bridge Fishing Access Area, located on Low Water Bridge Road, is a new Wildlife Resources small boat access area. It has two ramps, one upstream of the bridge and another downstream, and a parking lot with space for nine vehicles and one designated handicapped parking space.
Sections 3–4, pages 548–549 A Wildlife Resources boat ramp with parking area is at the NC 109 bridge, downstream right. It has paved parking, steps to the river, and a canoe/kayak slide.
Page 19 of 21 Updates to Paddling Eastern North Carolina (second edition) January 21, 2017
Yadkin River
Sections 4–5, pages 553–554 W, Kerr Scott Reservoir has a canoe access off Marley Ford Road (Wilkes Co. 1137). It can be used instead of Warrior Creek Park campground. From NC 268, take Marley Ford Road 0.8 miles to where it swings right toward reservoir campgrounds. Go straight ahead through gates to the canoe access. The access is free. Using it reduces Section 4 by a half-mile and adds a half-mile to Section 5.
Section 7, page 555 The Roaring River Road (Wilkes Co. 2327) bridge was the take-out for this section, but an easier to use access is 1.7 miles downstream, called “Roaring River Public Fishing Access” on the left bank. To drive to it from the NC 268 bridge over the Roaring River, take NC 268 east 1.3 miles to where a landfill is on the left. Turn right and follow the drive across railroad tracks. Go 75 feet, bear left, and continue 0.2 miles to the access on the right. Using this take-out adds 1.7 miles to this section.
Section 8, page 556 Put in at the “Roaring River Public Fishing Access” described in the Section 7 update. Using it subtracts 1.7 miles from the section distance.
Section 10, page 556 This access has been renovated and is maintained by the Yadkin County Recreation Department (336-679-4228). Water is available and tent camping is permitted for paddlers on through trips.
Sections 11–12, page 557 The low bridge at the Rockford is no longer a hazard. A high bridge replaced it, but tracts on all sides of the bridge are privately owned. Access requires permission of an owner. Yadkin River Adventures (www.yadkinriveradventures.com) offers canoe/kayak rentals and shuttle service for self-guide trips in the area. For trips using their services, access at the Rockford bridge is possible. Without permission to access at the Rockford bridge, Sections 11–12 must be paddled together, making a 16.9-mile trip.
Page 20 of 21 Updates to Paddling Eastern North Carolina (second edition) January 21, 2017
Appendix B: Camping Platforms Pages 569–570 For platform reservations by telephone, the number has changed. Call Ann at 252- 792-3790 or 252-724-0352, or call Lucia at 252-792-0070. The $50 maximum per platform no longer applies. Portable toilets are no longer available at Roberson’s Marina. Campers should bring a portable toilet or a 5-gallon bucket with lid and disposable bags. On Sections 2-3 of the Roanoke River, Halifax platform is now called Tusca Landing platform River Landing platform is now available. It is only about a 100-foot walk from the US 13/17 Wildlife boating access. It is connected to the River Landing Boardwalk and features a screened and covered facility with restrooms and showers nearby and two bicycles, which can be used for a short ride on the connecting Skewarkee Trail to downtown.
Appendix D Other Map Sources
Pages 579–580 The Web address given to view topo and aerial maps has changed to: http://msrmaps.com/Default.aspx An easy way to locate an area of interest is to enter the name of a nearby town and state under “Search MSR Maps” in the upper left. For example, enter “Williamston” in the “City” box and “NC” in the “State” box. Click “GO”. Under “Available Image”, click “Topo Map”. Navigate by clicking on the map or use arrows on the map sides. To see a latitude/longitude grid, click “Info” at the top, right side of the window. This is useful to obtain coordinates to use as waypoints for a GPS. To switch to an aerial map view, click the “Aerial Photo” tab on upper right of the map. North Carolina Department of Transportation County Maintenance Maps can be downloaded as PDF files from: http://www.ncdot.gov/travel/statemapping/
Page 21 of 21