Kayaking the Black River Swamp with Mahanaim Adventures
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness and comfort paddling over extended periods.
Overview
Paddle through centuries-old trees and sandy riverbanks on a private kayaking journey with Mahanaim Adventures. Discover the Black River’s unique blackwater swamp and its ancient ecosystem up close.
Private Black River / 3 Sisters Swamp Kayaking Adventure
7 Hour Trip • Private Tour for 4 / Additional Persons Upon Request
Select participants and date
Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a private kayaking adventure through the enchanting 3 Sisters Swamp, home to the 5th oldest trees in the world. Paddle along the Black River, where sandy banks invite you to relax and enjoy the stunning natural beauty. Experience a unique wilderness filled with diverse flora and serene landscapes.
Rates:
Flat Rate: $650 / $100 per additional person above 5
Description of Adventure
Explore the 3 Sisters Swamp is our most popular paddling destinations. Your private kayaking adventure will take you to explore this unique one of a kind wilderness. This swamp contains the 5th oldest known stand of trees in the world. The Black River is also popular because of its numerous sandbars that line its banks and sandy bottoms. These sandbars are a wonderful location to pull over for a quick rest or even for a relaxing lunch on the beautiful river.
This river’s blackwater swamps contain some of the oldest known living trees in eastern North America. Water ash and cat-briar 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.
NOTE: If you have more than 4 person in your group, we can accommodate you. Simply give us a call an we can set this up for you.
Duration
7 hours
Adventure Tips
Bring Water and Snacks
This 7-hour trip involves extended paddling time; pack enough hydration and light food.
Dress for Mosquitoes
Swamp areas can have mosquitoes especially in warmer months, so wear insect repellent and light long sleeves.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect your skin and the sensitive aquatic environment with eco-friendly sunscreen.
Limit Group Size
These are private tours capped at small groups to preserve the area’s tranquility and reduce impact.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great blue heron
- River otter
History
The Black River basin has remained largely undisturbed, preserving one of the oldest living forests in the Eastern U.S.
Conservation
Mahanaim Adventures promotes low-impact paddling and supports ongoing conservation efforts to protect this delicate swamp ecosystem.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Wilmington
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Lightweight Long-Sleeve Shirt
Protects against sun and insects while staying breathable.
summer specific
Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps electronics and valuables dry during paddling.
Insect Repellent
Required to minimize bites during warmer months.
spring specific
Reusable Water Bottle
Critical for staying hydrated on this lengthy trip.