Data Disclaimer: Water level data is provided by USGS and NOAA for informational purposes only. Verify conditions on-site before any water activities.
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Located on Cedar Island in Carteret County, NC, this public boat ramp provides access to Thorofare Bay and Core Sound along the lower Neuse River. The facility features ample trailer parking, a concrete launching lane, and a boat dock, making it well-suited for kayakers, canoeists, and larger vessels. The ramp is situated within Cedar Island National Wildlife Refuge, offering paddlers direct access to protected waters and excellent opportunities for wildlife observation and photography.
The Neuse River is a major waterway (Stream Order 8) with an average flow of 6,394 cubic feet per second and a gentle gradient of approximately 1 foot per mile at this lower reach. These characteristics make it relatively stable and manageable for paddlers of varying skill levels, though conditions can vary with tidal influence near the sound. From this launch point, boaters can explore Thorofare Bay and nearby Core Sound, with Cape Lookout National Seashore accessible approximately three miles offshore for shelling, birding, and fishing.
Nearby camping options include North Core Banks for beach camping and Long Point Cabin Camp (reservable), making this an excellent base for multi-day paddling trips. The ramp is located off NC Highway 12 on Cedar Island Road, approximately three-quarters mile north from the intersection with Old Cedar Island Road in Atlantic, NC.