Deep River - Carbonton Dam to Camelback Bridge (Deep River Park)

Trip Overview

We put in at the old Carbonton Dam where Hwy 42 crosses the Deep River and the water was pretty low (2.6' according to the Moncure Gauge). Having made this trip several times we decided to include our kids with tandem kayaks and singles. As soon as we passed the Plank Road bridge near the McIver launch there were some rapids and a new tree down in the river (that was not there 3 weeks ago). One kayak got pulled over and wedged against the tree and as we worked to free people and get back under-way another kayak flipped and we ended up with 3 people (2 adults 1 teenager) wedged against the tree unable to get out. Fire and rescue really saved the day but people were in the chilly water for an hour and I can only imagine how long they would have been in there on some of the more remote sections of this trip.

Would truly recommend not taking this route if the water is low. Check the USGS Moncure gauge, anything below 2.5' will have a lot of rock just below the surface. The deeper the water is the less opportunities you have to get out and stretch or take breaks easily but the water flows smoothly and there are not a lot of obstructions other than trees. Also check the 421 bridge to make sure there are not trees blocking the way, there is an access on the west-bound lane on the east side of the river to pull down and check it out or to launch from. Higher water and strong discharge will have the water flowing around 3-4 mph and will make Carbonton to Camelback about a 4-5 hour trip just running with the flow.

Beautiful, easy, and peaceful trip under the right circumstances.