How do I access Bells Bridge?

Bells Bridge is a public boat ramp in North Carolina. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Bells Bridge?

Bells Bridge supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Bells Bridge?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock, concessions, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Bells Bridge?

The best time to paddle at Bells Bridge is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Bells Bridge?

Water conditions at Bells Bridge include mild current.

Is Bells Bridge good for beginners?

Yes, Bells Bridge is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

a small boat sitting on top of a body of water

Photo by Wes Hicks on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParkingDockConcessionsADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Bells Bridge

Tarboro, NC · Boat Ramp · Public

Bells Bridge is a public boat ramp on Tar River near Tarboro, North Carolina. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

River

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Good

Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

About This Location

Bells Bridge offers river paddling on Tar River in North Carolina. Located near Tarboro.

Located in North Carolina, Bells Bridge puts you on Tar River with room to explore upstream or downstream from the launch.

Kayaking is the most popular activity here, with the water conditions supporting a range of skill levels. Canoeists can enjoy the calmer sections for a relaxed paddle.

You can expect mild current water when paddling here. The recommended season runs March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and dock and concessions and ada accessible.

Located about 5 min from Tarboro, Bells Bridge is a convenient option for Tarboro-area paddlers.

Paddling Tips

•Always face upstream when entering or exiting your boat at the ramp.
•River levels change with rainfall — check the USGS gauge before you go.
•Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
•Know where your take-out is and how long the run takes before launching.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Bells Bridge?: Bells Bridge is a public boat ramp in North Carolina. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Bells Bridge?: Bells Bridge supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Bells Bridge?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock, concessions, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Bells Bridge?: The best time to paddle at Bells Bridge is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Bells Bridge?: Water conditions at Bells Bridge include mild current.
Is Bells Bridge good for beginners?: Yes, Bells Bridge is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Gentle moving water with mild current. Suitable for beginners who are comfortable with basic paddle strokes and steering.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 35.9285, -77.5486