Black River Kayaking

This river’s blackwater swamps contain some of the oldest known living Bald Cypress trees in in the world.  Bald Cypress, water oaks, river birch and other species of trees form a canopy of dense thickets along the banks of the river. Elsewhere along the river, variations in elevation allow for changes in the forest from black gum and tupelo gum in lower areas, to water hickory, American elm, and some oak species on the ridges. In a few places, dry upland bluffs along the river support longleaf pines and turkey oaks.

In 1994, the river was recognized as one of the cleanest, high-quality waterways in North Carolina when the state designated the river an Outstanding Resource Water. Many wildlife species inhabit the river’s floodplain, including turkey, deer, bobcat, river otter, black bear, and more. Although we can never guarantee that you will see lots wildlife on this river, the possibility is always there.

The Black River is perfect to kayak throughout the year. You will enjoy drifting down the slow-moving tea-colored river lined by its large variety of old growth trees. The river is also a great place to view the fall foliage change in eastern North Carolina. In the spring, you can see migratory songbirds nesting.

Two possible full day adventures including possible overnight adventure

Black River / Ivanhoe

(Ivanhoe Road to Beattys Bridge Road)
Three Quarter Day / 7.6 mile float (most popular). 
Cost per person: $70

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Black River / Three Sisters Adventure

(Beattys Bridge Road to Hunts Bluff)
Full Day /12 mile float to see 2500+ years old bald cypress trees.
(a fun challange when water is low). 
Cost per person: $125 / Plus $8 Launch fee

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3 Sisters Swamp

Black River Ivanhoe


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