View Full Version : canoe camping
Currahee D
07-17-2011, 11:08
Does anyone know of any lakes or rivers in Western NC for canoe camping? Maybe even close to a loop hike in the Franklin/Highlands areas of NC?
Most of the rivers in Western NC that I am familiar with are white-water, but there should be some sections of those that are suitable for canoe-camping. Google "North Carolina rivers and streams". A bit further east the New River runs north out of NC into VA and WVA, that upper section is great for canoe-camping but you would have to check the water level. Google the National Committee for the New River. There is also an "Ashe County New River Canoe Trail Guide", Ashe Chamber and Vistiors Center, P.O. Box 31, West Jefferson, NC 28694 . National Geographic published the "New River Blueway" map. Hope this is sufficient to get you started.
PS -- check with the Nantahala Outdoor Center for the best info on canoe-camping in Western NC -- this is really your best source.
Currahee D
07-17-2011, 12:07
Awesome, thanks for the references. I'll definitely check them out1
Try the following web sites for info, www.zaloos.com (http://www.zaloos.com) and www.canoethenew.com (http://www.canoethenew.com). Both of these are outfitters in the Jefferson, NC area and are located on the New River. I have done a 3 day trip on the New River starting at Zaloos. Great river, easy paddling but water levels can be low in late summer.
A.T. Hiker
07-17-2011, 13:42
GSMNP has boat in only campsites on Fontana Lake you can view them at this link http://www.nps.gov/grsm/planyourvisit/upload/GSMNP%20Backcountry%20Map.pdf I have never been to any of these sites so I cannot tell you anything about them.
Jim Adams
07-18-2011, 01:42
Check with the local outfitters but I think that the French Broad River downstream of Hot Springs is a good canoe camping river. The difficult white water is just upstream of town with the Needles and Frank Bell Rapids.
geek
daddytwosticks
07-18-2011, 07:20
Just be real careful if you hear banjo music while paddling.....:)
Outdoor76
07-18-2011, 19:21
We're an outfitter in Franklin specializing in both (hiking/paddlesports) - give us a call and I'm sure we can point you in the right direction
Outdoor 76
828-349-7676
Currahee D
07-19-2011, 11:21
Outdoor 76, thanks so much for the reply, I'll be giving you guys a call soon. Thanks again!