Boat Ramps In North Carolina: Open Or Closed?

Boating is one of North Carolina's most popular activities, with more than 300,000 registered vessels in the state. The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission provides 250 free boating access areas (BAA) to over 100 different bodies of water. However, some boat ramps in North Carolina are currently closed for various reasons, including restroom facilities closures due to COVID-19 and bridge construction work. Hurricane Helene has also impacted some areas, and caution is advised when visiting affected regions.

Boating Access Areas in North Carolina

Boating is one of the most popular activities in North Carolina, with over 300,000 registered vessels in the state. The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission provides 250 free Boating Access Areas (BAA) to over 100 different bodies of water. These areas are spread across the state, with a concentration in the coastal regions.

Some of the BAAs in North Carolina include:

• Blewett Falls Reservoir
• Cedar Cliff Reservoir
• Falls of the Neuse Reservoir
• Intracoastal Waterway
• John H. Kerr Reservoir
• Lake Glenville (Thorpe Lake)
• Lake Wylie (Catawba Reservoir)
• Little Tennessee River
• Lookout Shoals Reservoir
• Mountain Island Reservoir
• Northeast Cape Fear River
• Roanoke Rapids Reservoir
• Santeetlah Reservoir
• Shearon Harris Reservoir
• Shingle Landing Creek
• Yadkin River

In addition to the above list, there are numerous other boat ramps and launches in North Carolina that provide access to various lakes, rivers, and waterways. These include both public and private access points. It is always recommended to check ahead to find out if a location is open and accessible, especially after a hurricane or other severe weather events.

When using the boating access areas in North Carolina, it is important to follow certain guidelines to ensure safety and minimise environmental impact. These include operating at no wake near the shore or in narrow streams to avoid erosion, ensuring all passengers have proper personal floatation devices (PFDs), and being respectful of other waterway users by reducing wake and avoiding noise pollution.

Hurricane Helene Alert

Hurricane Helene made landfall in late September 2024, causing severe damage and devastation across western North Carolina, particularly in the Appalachian region. The storm resulted in at least 104 reported fatalities and significant destruction of infrastructure and residential areas. Record-breaking rainfall led to overflowing rivers, mudslides, and widespread flooding, with several towns cut off from power, transportation, and communication services.

Western North Carolina Impacted

Western North Carolina, including the mountainous regions, experienced severe flooding and landslides, leaving many communities in ruin. The storm deposited unprecedented amounts of rainfall, with some areas receiving over 30 inches, resulting in swollen rivers and inundating settlements. This exceptional moisture transport was due to the storm's inland trajectory from the East Coast and Gulf Coast.

Emergency Response and Evacuations

The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) declared that all roads in western North Carolina should be considered closed due to landslides, flooding, and destroyed bridges. Governor Roy Cooper issued a state of emergency, and several parks and roads were shut down, including the Blue Ridge Parkway and parts of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Recovery Efforts and Assistance

The impact of Hurricane Helene in North Carolina has led to a coordinated response from various organizations, including law enforcement, emergency management, fire departments, rescue squads, and charities. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has extended the deadline for disaster survivors to apply for assistance until February 6, 2025, providing financial aid to homeowners and renters in the affected counties.

Long-term Effects and Concerns

The hurricane's impact has raised concerns about the lack of strong building codes in western North Carolina counties, which may have contributed to the extensive damage. Additionally, the storm's impact on poultry facilities in the state and Georgia has led to worries about potential manure runoff into water supplies, as North Carolina is a major poultry supplier for the nation.

Ways to Help

The best way to assist in the recovery of western North Carolina is by donating to organizations providing relief efforts. Monetary donations are the most effective way to help, but those wishing to volunteer can register with accredited organizations such as NC VOAD.

Boat Ramps in North Carolina

There are a large number of boat ramps in North Carolina, with over 100 bodies of water providing access to boaters. The N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission provides 250 free boating access areas (BAA) across the state.

• Duck Creek Marina Ramp, New Bern
• Middle Oaks Marina Owners Ramp, Wilmington
• Morehead Gulf Docks Ramp, Morehead City
• Riverfront Park on the Tar River Ramp, Tarboro
• Skipper's Marina Ramp, Troutman
• Anchorage Marina Ramp, Atlantic Beach
• Jordan Lake/ Vista Point Ramp, Pittsboro
• Inlet Watch Yacht Club Ramp, Wilmington
• Andrews Pond at Pee Dee National Wildlife Refuge Ramp, Mount Gilead
• Currituck Sound in Currituck County Ramp, Poplar Branch
• Federal Point Yacht Club Ramp, Carolina Beach
• Topsail Sound Pier Market & Marina Ramp, Topsail Beach
• Lumber River at Lumber River State Park Ramp, Maxton
• Lake Norman at Lake Norman State Park Ramp, Stanley
• Kerr Lake State Recreation Area Ramp, Troutman
• Beaufort Gulf Dock Ramp, Beaufort
• Apex Community Park Lake Ramp, Apex
• Sea Ray of Lake Norman Ramp, Cornelius
• Island Harbor Marina Ramp, Emerald Isle
• Silver Lake Marina/Ocracoke Park Docks Ramp, Ocracoke

It is important to note that some boat ramps in North Carolina may be closed due to various reasons, such as restroom closures in response to COVID-19, drawdown and dam maintenance, bridge construction work, or weather conditions caused by events like Hurricane Helene. It is recommended to check for the most up-to-date information on any closures or accessibility updates before planning a trip.

North Carolina Boat Ramp Closures

As of June 15, 2020, several boat ramps in North Carolina were listed as closed for various reasons, including COVID-19 restrictions, drawdown and dam maintenance, and bridge construction work. The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) provides updates on any closures or access restrictions on their website.

COVID-19 Related Closures

As of June 15, 2020, all restroom facilities at boat ramps were temporarily closed in response to COVID-19.

Duke Energy Drawdown and Dam Maintenance

Duke Energy's website, www.duke-energy.com/community/lakes, provides information on water access alerts and should be referred to for details on drawdown and dam maintenance closures.

Bridge Construction Work

The following boat ramps were listed as having intermittent closures and limited parking due to DOT bridge construction work:

Watermill Glen Alpine Road Boat Access, closed by Burke County until further notice as of February 18, 2020.

Hurricane Impact

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the NCWRC advised caution when visiting boating areas, as some properties and facilities may be closed, inaccessible, or unsafe.

Long-Term Park Closures

Chimney Rock, Mount Mitchell, and South Mountains parks are closed long-term until further notice. It is recommended to check the park pages for the most up-to-date status of facilities.

North Carolina State Parks

Lake James State Park

Lake James State Park, located in Burke and McDowell Counties, offers two boat ramps providing access to Lake James. The Canal Bridge Boat Ramp in Burke County is ideal for exploring the northeast side of the lake, and the Hidden Cove Boat Ramp in McDowell County is perfect for those looking to discover the southern shores. Lake James is a vast reservoir known for its excellent boating and fishing opportunities. It is home to a variety of fish species, including bass, catfish, and crappie. The park also offers a range of other activities, such as hiking, swimming, and camping.

Kerr Lake State Recreation Area

The Kerr Lake State Recreation Area, near the Virginia state line, boasts a 50,000-acre reservoir that is a boater's paradise. The park offers multiple access points for boaters, including the Nutbush Bridge Access, which provides a great starting point for exploring the lake. Ospreys are a common sight in this area, so keep your eyes peeled! The park also has several other recreational activities, such as camping, swimming, and picnicking.

Lumber River State Park

Lumber River State Park, located in Scotland and Robeson Counties, is a boater's dream. With two access points, the Chalk Banks Access and the Princess Ann Access, visitors can explore the blackwater river, admire the bald cypress trees in the swamp forest, and keep an eye out for the eastern box turtle. The Lumber River is a designated National Wild and Scenic River, known for its natural beauty and diverse wildlife. It's a great spot for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.

Lake Norman State Park

Lake Norman State Park, in Iredell County, is a boater's haven. The park boasts the largest man-made lake in North Carolina, with 520 miles of shoreline to explore. The Lake Norman Access offers a great starting point for boaters, and the park is also a fantastic spot for birdwatching, with the great blue heron calling this place home. Other activities in the park include hiking, mountain biking, and swimming.

Pettigrew State Park

Pettigrew State Park, in Washington County, is a nature lover's paradise. The park is situated 71 miles northeast of Greenville and offers a variety of attractions. During the winter months, you can spot wintering tundra swans on Lake Phelps, and history buffs can explore the Somerset Place state historic site. The Scuppernong River is also a highlight, offering a peaceful boating experience. The park has something for everyone, with activities like hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.

It's important to note that some boat ramps and facilities in North Carolina State Parks may be temporarily closed due to COVID-19 or maintenance. Always check the latest information before your visit and follow any safety guidelines in place.

Frequently asked questions