Tulls Creek Boat Ramp

Tulls Creek Boat Ramp provides access to Tull Bay Creek, a sheltered arm of the Northwest River system that offers some of the most beginner-friendly paddling in the North Carolina coastal region. This tidal creek winds through salt marshes and wooded shorelines, creating a protected environment where new paddlers can build confidence without dealing with open water conditions. The creek connects to the larger Northwest River system, giving you options to extend your paddle if conditions allow. What sets this spot apart is its reliable shelter from prevailing winds and the fascinating mix of freshwater influence upstream and saltwater tidal action closer to the main river.

The paddling conditions here are about as forgiving as you'll find in coastal North Carolina. Tidal influence is gentle but noticeable, creating mild currents that rarely exceed what a beginner can handle comfortably. The creek averages 50 to 100 yards wide in most sections, with deeper water in the main channel and shallower areas near the marsh edges. Wind is rarely a major factor since the surrounding trees and marsh grass provide natural windbreaks. During incoming tides, you can paddle upstream quite easily, while outgoing tides give you a gentle assist back toward the launch. The water stays relatively calm even when the main Northwest River might be choppy.

Kayakers will find this an ideal spot for practicing basic strokes and learning to read water, with plenty of quiet coves and side channels to explore. The stable conditions make it perfect for recreational kayaks and longer touring boats alike. SUP paddlers particularly enjoy the calm water and the ability to stand and observe wildlife in the marshes. The protected nature of the creek means you can focus on balance and paddle technique without worrying about boat wakes or wind chop. Canoeists will appreciate the lack of significant current or wind that can make solo paddling challenging elsewhere. The creek's layout naturally guides you along defined routes, making navigation straightforward for all paddle craft types.

March through November offers the most comfortable paddling weather, with spring and fall providing the best combination of mild temperatures and active wildlife. Summer can get quite warm and humid, but early morning or evening paddles are excellent during these months. The tidal marshes come alive in spring with migrating birds, while fall brings comfortable temperatures and fewer bugs. Winter paddling is possible during mild spells, but you'll want to check wind conditions on the main river system as cold fronts can create challenging conditions even in sheltered areas. Mosquitoes can be intense from late spring through summer, so plan accordingly with repellent and long sleeves for dawn or dusk paddles.

The boat ramp is located off Tulls Creek Road, about 1.8 miles from Moyock, and is easily accessible from US Route 168. The concrete ramp is in good condition and suitable for launching any type of paddle craft, though you'll be sharing it with motor boats during busy periods. Parking is adequate but can fill up on nice weekend days, especially during fishing season. The ramp has a gradual slope that makes launching kayaks and SUPs straightforward. There are no restroom facilities at the launch, so plan accordingly. The area is generally well-maintained, and the parking area is level and suitable for cars and small trailers. Getting to the water is simple, with just a short carry from the parking area to the ramp.