Neuse River in North Carolina

Trip Overview

Neuse River from Hwy. 117 boat ramp @ Whiskey Dick's to Hwy. 581 boat ramp @ Sam Casey Bridge

This stretch of the Neuse River is perfect for a short afternoon trip. The total distance is 6.8 miles. After leaving the 117 boat ramp you quickly leave the highways and sounds of civilization. You pass under a railroad trestle that was the object of a civil war battle (Battle of Goldsborough Bridge).

This section also goes by Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, if you are lucky you can sit in your boat and watch F-15s taking off. The runway is right on the river.

This section has very little development.

Both boat ramps are easily accessible.

Accommodations:

State maintained boat ramps at put in and take out. Easy access.

Fees:

None

Directions:

The 117 boat ramp is directly off Highway 117 south at Whiskey Dick's Bar. Look for the State Wildlife Boat Ramp sign just past Wayne Salvage junkyard and EZ mart.

Resources:

"Paddling Eastern North Carolina" with Paul Ferguson