East Lake Ferry

The East Lake Ferry boat ramp provides access to the Alligator River and surrounding waterways in Dare County, North Carolina. Located along the shores of East Lake, this NCWRC-maintained ramp is suitable for launching smaller boats, kayaks, and canoes.

The Alligator River is a headwater stream that flows approximately 28 miles to the ocean. With an average depth of just 0.2 meters and a gentle current around 1 foot per second, the river offers calm, serene paddling conditions well-suited for kayakers and canoers. The river's broad, shallow profile and low gradient make it navigable for small motorized boats as well.

In addition to the boat ramp, the nearby Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge and Fort Raleigh National Historic Site provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, hiking, and exploring the unique habitats of the Outer Banks region. Paddlers can access the refuge's interior waterways from the East Lake Ferry ramp, immersing themselves in the area's rich natural and cultural history.