How do I access Tory Hole?

Tory Hole is a public carry-in in North Carolina. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Tory Hole?

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

What amenities are at Tory Hole?

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

When is the best time to visit Tory Hole?

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

What are the water conditions at Tory Hole?

Water conditions at Tory Hole include mild current.

Is Tory Hole good for beginners?

Yes, Tory Hole 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.

person riding blue kayak on lake during daytime

Photo by Gene Gallin on Unsplash

Activity

KayakingCanoeingBeginner

Conditions

RiverMild Current

Amenities

Boat RampParkingDockConcessionsLightingADA Accessible

Best Time to Visit

Spring Summer Fall

Tory Hole

Elizabethtown, NC · Carry-In · Public

Tory Hole is a public carry-in on Cape Fear River near Elizabethtown, 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

Carry-In

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

River access at Tory Hole near Elizabethtown, North Carolina. Good for kayaking and canoeing.

Tory Hole offers access to Cape Fear River in North Carolina. This stretch of river draws paddlers looking for mild current conditions.

This is a solid spot for kayaking, with enough room to settle into a comfortable paddling rhythm. Canoeing works well here, especially for those looking for a peaceful day on the water.

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

Getting here from Elizabethtown takes about 5 min, putting Tory Hole within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

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 Tory Hole?: Tory Hole is a public carry-in in North Carolina. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Tory Hole?: Tory Hole supports kayaking, canoeing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Tory Hole?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock, concessions, lighting, ada accessible. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Tory Hole?: The best time to paddle at Tory Hole is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
What are the water conditions at Tory Hole?: Water conditions at Tory Hole include mild current.
Is Tory Hole good for beginners?: Yes, Tory Hole 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: 34.6326, -78.6038