How do I access Lock And Dam #1?

Lock And Dam #1 is a public carry-in in North Carolina. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Lock And Dam #1?

Lock And Dam #1 supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Lock And Dam #1?

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

When is the best time to visit Lock And Dam #1?

The best time to paddle at Lock And Dam #1 is during spring and summer and fall. March through November

What are the water conditions at Lock And Dam #1?

Water conditions at Lock And Dam #1 include mild current.

Is Lock And Dam #1 good for beginners?

Yes, Lock And Dam #1 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.

Photo by Josh Duncan on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParkingFishing PierConcessionsADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Lock And Dam #1

Kelly, NC · Carry-In · Public

Lock And Dam #1 is a public carry-in on Cape Fear River near Kelly, North Carolina. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, fishing pier. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.

At a Glance

Water Body

River

Launch Type

Carry-In

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, Kayak Fishing

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

River access at Lock And Dam #1 near Kelly, North Carolina. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Lock And Dam #1 offers access to Cape Fear River in North Carolina. This stretch of river draws paddlers looking for mild current conditions.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings.

Water conditions are generally mild current. March through November is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and fishing pier and concessions and ada accessible.

Getting here from Kelly takes about 5 min, putting Lock And Dam #1 within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

Paddling Tips

•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.
•Scout downstream from the launch before committing to your paddle.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Lock And Dam #1?: Lock And Dam #1 is a public carry-in in North Carolina. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Lock And Dam #1?: Lock And Dam #1 supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Lock And Dam #1?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, fishing pier, concessions, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Lock And Dam #1?: The best time to paddle at Lock And Dam #1 is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Lock And Dam #1?: Water conditions at Lock And Dam #1 include mild current.
Is Lock And Dam #1 good for beginners?: Yes, Lock And Dam #1 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: 34.4033, -78.2934