A great half-day Kayaking trip is to launch my boat at the Croatan National Forest Recreation area boat ramp and paddle out to Jones Island, about a mile from the boat ramp and the town of Swanboro. If you are driving over the first bridge from Swansboro toward Cedar Point, Jones Island is the tract of land in the middle of the White Oak River on your left. It is beautiful wooded island with small spots to pull up, get out, take a swim, view the town of Swansboro, or just enjoy the warmth of the sun.
Recently, I paddled to Jones Island and stayed close to the shore line moving leisurely around the island. The water was smooth and the paddle easy as I meander along the water's edge. I stopped, rested, and enjoyed a snack at one of the sandy patches of beach. Since the west side of the island is usually windy I decided to back tract by the same route. To my amazement the ride was faster and easier because this time I was paddling with the tide.
On October 29, 2007, 17 acres of the island became part of Hammocks Beach State Park. However, one tract still remains in private ownership. Jones Island was used by Native Americans for hunting and fishing. It was also used as a fishing camp and livestock grazing area during colonial times.
The White Oak River is a wonderful place to kayak as well as fish and boat. According to Richard Rogers, executive director of the Clean Water Management Trust Fund, "The White Oak River is one the Best-Kept secrets in Eastern North Carolina.
The Croatan National Forest is located on VFW Road off of Highway 58 going toward Emerald Isle, North Carolina. This is a great place because they have a boat ramp, good parking, picnic area and bathrooms. Also the camp ground is managed by a resident couple.
John & Lucille's Country Retreat is only 10 minutes from the Cedar Point Boat ramp and the National Forest. Visit www.stellacountryretreat.com for more information about the retreat.
On October 29, 2007, 17 acres of the island became part of Hammocks Beach State Park. However, one tract still remains in private ownership. Jones Island was used by Native Americans for hunting and fishing. It was also used as a fishing camp and livestock grazing area during colonial times.
The White Oak River is a wonderful place to kayak as well as fish and boat. According to Richard Rogers, executive director of the Clean Water Management Trust Fund, "The White Oak River is one the Best-Kept secrets in Eastern North Carolina.
The Croatan National Forest is located on VFW Road off of Highway 58 going toward Emerald Isle, North Carolina. This is a great place because they have a boat ramp, good parking, picnic area and bathrooms. Also the camp ground is managed by a resident couple.
John & Lucille's Country Retreat is only 10 minutes from the Cedar Point Boat ramp and the National Forest. Visit www.stellacountryretreat.com for more information about the retreat.
Come and discover the White Oak River on your next vacation.
