Adventure Collective
Explore North Carolina’s Black River on a Guided Kayak Adventure Through Ancient Cypress Swamps - Kelly

Explore North Carolina’s Black River on a Guided Kayak Adventure Through Ancient Cypress Swamps

Kellymoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

3 hours

Fitness Level

Participants should be in moderate physical shape able to paddle continuously for several hours but no expert skills required.

Overview

Paddle through North Carolina’s ancient Three Sisters cypress swamp on a guided 3-hour kayak tour. Immerse yourself in unique wildlife sightings and timeless landscapes just outside Kelly. Discover why this serene river journey is a must-do adventure for nature lovers and paddlers alike.

Kelly, North Carolina

Black River Kayak Tour

2.5-3 Hour • Experience nature's mysterious beauty on the Black River!

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About This Adventure

Embark on a captivating kayak adventure through North Carolina's enchanting Black River and Three Sisters cypress swamp. Paddle among ancient cypress trees draped in Spanish moss, spot diverse wildlife, and explore hidden gems. With experienced guides ensuring a safe journey, this unique experience promises unforgettable moments in nature's serene beauty.

Experience nature's mysterious beauty on the Black River and Three Sisters cypress swamp

Duration

2.5 - 3 Hours

Prices

$75 per person

Group Rates (automatically calculates upon booking)

  • 10-14pp $68pp
  • 15-19pp $65pp
  • 20-24pp $62pp
  • 25-29pp $60pp
  • 30-34pp $58pp

About

Experience the beauty of North Carolina’s Black River with our guided kayak tours or rentals! While paddling along the tranquil waters of the Black River, you will be immersed in the stunning beauty of nature. Come and witness ancient cypress trees draped in Spanish moss, spot wildlife like river otters and herons, and discover hidden gems along the way. Whether you're a seasoned paddler or a first-time explorer, our experienced guides will ensure a safe and memorable journey.

Weather, 100% Guarantee

Go ahead and sign up for your desired tour and time with the assurance that if there is questionable weather that would make it not safe or enjoyable, we will reschedule you to a day or time that is convenient for you, sometimes its just a brief rain delay. We are in North Carolina where the weather (and the weather forecast) can change often. The summer weather forecast will always include a chance of thunderstorms to encompass the summer weather pattern that quite often is over quickly or may be in one spot and not the other. We watch the live radar and wind along with several other sites starting early in the morning to insure the safest on water experience. Have additional time or days available when possible just in case for weather. If the weather does not allow for rescheduling to occur, 100% of your tour cost is refunded.

Experience Level/Difficulty

This is a great tour for kayakers at all levels of experience. You can usually expect smooth, calm waters during this time, with often low tides. Paddling in these waters at this time usually doesn’t require as much exertion as other times. We’ll also take stopping and exploration breaks, allowing you ample time for rest and to walk around various islands.

What to Bring/Expect

On this tour, you're provided a kayak, a paddle, and a life jacket for each paid seat. Each person in a tandem kayak will also receive a paddle and life jacket each.

  • Phones are welcome, please secure them in a Ziploc freezer or dry bag as we cannot be responsible for lost items.
  • Sunscreen and bug spray is recommended.
  • We recommend avoiding flip flops. Please wear shoes that are secured to your feet. Wear shoes and clothes that can get wet, sandy or muddy.
  • Water levels on this tour tend to vary from 6 inches to 4 feet deep, deeper in a few areas.
  • This is a guided tour that will include several stops where you can rest, sightsee and explore on foot.
  • Bring bottled water and snacks in a soft cooler that can be tucked away within your kayak.
  • Towels, bring towels to keep in your vehicle for when you get back. Bringing towels is not needed on the tour.

Nature Experiences

Our tours are focused on the beautiful nature and wildlife that surrounds ud. We call the Black River, the "Enchanted Forest". The cypress trees themselves are a majestic experience. We often see diverse plantlife including resurrection fern, duckweed, then turtles, frogs, can see many different bird species including blue heron, woodpeckers, warblers, kites, owls, hawks and more. We also have seen deer watching, otter playing and raccoons foraging. We never know what we'll see and every tour is different.

Location

Kayak Launch at Newby's landing, 85 Longview Road, Kelly, NC 28448. You can type the address into your navigation/phone. Just north of Wilmington, up highway 421, an easy to get to, small, private boat ramp.

Adventure Tips

Wear waterproof shoes

Expect to get your feet wet when launching and docking—waterproof footwear will keep you comfortable.

Bring insect repellent

Swamp environments attract mosquitoes, especially in summer; repellent ensures a more enjoyable trip.

Use layered clothing

Morning paddles can be cool; dress in layers you can peel off as temperatures rise.

Protect your gear from water

Use waterproof dry bags to keep phones, cameras, and medications safe during your paddle.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bald cypress turtles
  • Barred owl

History

The Black River corridor includes some of North Carolina’s oldest remaining old-growth cypress trees, some dating back over 500 years, representing an enduring natural heritage.

Conservation

Operators emphasize low-impact paddling techniques and adhere to strict guidelines to protect the swamp’s fragile ecosystem and minimize human disturbance.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Personal flotation device (PFD)

Essential

Safety gear required for all participants on the water.

Waterproof dry bag

Essential

Protects belongings from splashes and potential capsizing.

Lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing

Essential

spring specific

Sun hat and sunscreen

Essential

Essential for sun protection in exposed river sections.

summer specific