Kayaking the Black River: Scenic Paddling in North Carolina
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–5 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required for 8-mile paddle with some maneuvering through swamp channels.
Overview
Discover the Black River’s unique blackwater swamps and peaceful sandbars on this 8-mile kayaking trip near Wilmington, NC. Spot otters, deer, and abundant birdlife on a relaxing paddle year-round.
Black River / Ivanhoe
4 to 4.5 Hour Trip • Popular Paddling Destination! • Mon - Sat
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on the Black River Kayaking Adventure, a unique journey through pristine forests and ancient blackwater swamps. Enjoy serene sandbars for relaxation and witness diverse wildlife, including otters and deer. Paddle year-round on this scenic, tea-colored river, making unforgettable memories over an 8-mile exploration of nature's beauty.
Rates
$75 Per Person
Description of Your Adventure
Explore the popular Black River Kayaking Adventure, boasting sufficient water even in droughts and surrounded by undisturbed forests. Discover numerous sandbars for a riverside rest or a leisurely lunch amid the scenic beauty. Explore blackwater swamps with some of the oldest trees in eastern North America. Designated an Outstanding Resource Water in 1994, this clean waterway is a haven for wildlife, offering the possibility of encountering turkey, deer, otters, and more. Kayak year-round, enjoying the slow-moving, tea-colored river and witnessing seasonal highlights. Book your 8-mile adventure through beautiful swamp lands now for an unforgettable experience!
Duration
4 to 5 hours depending on water levels
Adventure Tips
Check Water Levels Before Launch
Water levels fluctuate seasonally; confirm conditions to ensure safe paddling throughout the trip.
Bring Insect Repellent
Mosquitoes and other insects are common especially in warmer months—protect yourself with effective repellent.
Pack Lightweight Gear
Use waterproof bags and keep gear compact to navigate easily through braided channels and shallow spots.
Practice Leave No Trace
Carry out all trash and avoid disturbing wildlife or plant life to preserve this sensitive ecosystem.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- River otters
- White-tailed deer
History
The Black River basin has been inhabited for centuries, with Native American tribes relying on its resources long before European settlement.
Conservation
Efforts focus on protecting the blackwater ecosystem by promoting catch-and-release fishing and minimizing human impact on sensitive wetlands.
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Adventure Hotspots in Wilmington
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sit-on-top Kayak or Stable Touring Kayak
Provides stability and ease for paddling through narrow swamp waterways.
Personal Flotation Device (PFD)
A must-have for safety on all paddling trips regardless of river conditions.
Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your essentials dry during river excursions and unexpected splashes.
Insect Repellent
Protects from mosquitoes common in warmer months along the swamp.
spring specific