Paddle back in time and experience the historically rich area along Moores Creek, a slow-moving blackwater situated along an 88-acre national park that commemorates the Revolutionary War.
Cape Fear River Watch and Moores Creek National Battlefield invite participants to join in a roughly 2.5-mile, out-and-back paddle on May 16 in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.
Supporter Spotlight
The trip will offer an experience of the creek as it was in 1776, beginning at the battlefield, passing under a historic bridge, and then into untouched cypress swamps.
Moores Creek flows into the Black River, a major tributary of the Cape Fear River.
The paddle will be followed by lunch (bring your own) in the park where, afterward, a park ranger will take participants on an exclusive history tour.
Moores Creek National Battlefield commemorates the Feb. 27, 1776 battle between Patriots and Loyalist militia. The national park in Pender County is where the Patriots won their first major victory.
Those interested in the paddle may register online.
Supporter Spotlight
Cape Fear River Watch has a limited number of boats (single kayaks) available and asks for a donation of $25 per boat, including personal flotation device and paddle. If you prefer to use one of the organization’s kayaks, indicate that when you register.
Anyone who prefers to paddle in a tandem kayak may make that request to Riverkeeper Kemp Burdette prior to registering for the paddle at kemp@cfrw.us.
Paddlers who bring their own kayaks are asked to contribute a $10 donation either online when registering or by cash or check the day of the paddle. Donations help cover the costs of Cape Fear River Watch programs, including its paddle series, water quality monitoring, and educational seminars.
Participants should meet at the Moores Creek National Battlefield Patriots Hall parking lot no later than 8:30 a.m.
Paddlers are encouraged to bring snack and lunch, sunscreen, bug spray, sunglasses, hat, and water shoes.
Those who register should check their email the night before and the morning of the paddle to make sure the event has not been canceled.
