Cashie River in North Carolina

Trip Overview

The Cashie River is a standing blackwater river surrounded mostly by swamps. We put in at Windsor NC right off of hwy 17. There is great access and a public place to park. The trip was suppose to be around 12 miles to the lost boat platform but was right at 10 miles. The trip down was a little windy but not too hard. There were a few boats and fisherman due to the running of the shad. On the way down we encountered many birds and turtles but since it was still pretty cold wildlife and plantlife were at a minimum.

The branch to the platform was well marked and it was very remote feeling. Camping on the platforms is great. There was no dirt and no need to mess with a fire. Make sure to bring a pad of some kind to sleeping on. It was a cloudy night but the moon still kept our site well lit. Camping, cooking, loading up and everything is very easy on the platforms, they are made very well and not just thrown up in the swamp. There was water around the entire platform but I believe the flow was a little higher than usual. Sleeping was no problem I was expecting noise from the wildlife, but it was very calm.

Getting back to Windsor was easier than leaving. The wind was at our back and the temp was a little warmer. We both got a little tired about 3-4 miles away but it was the first paddle of the season. I would give this trip an A.

Accommodations:

Platform camping - Leave no trace

Outfitting:

Pungo 120

Loon 138

Etrex legend

Fees:

$20 minimum or $10 a head

Directions:

Hwy 17 Windsor, NC

Resources:

http://www.roanokeriverpartners.org/