Exploring Camden County, NC:

Cruising Through Nature

A picturesque North Carolina region with links to British peerage, the Stamp Act and America’s revolt against England, Camden County is close to nature and a gateway for boaters on the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AICW). There’s also a good chance that George Washington slept there. ?Today it's farm markets, restaurants, marinas, and waterways comprise an enchanting getaway worthy of a Waterway Guide Preferred Destination.

An Alternate Route of the ICW

Decidedly rural and situated on the inland coast of the Tar Heel state, Camden County prides itself on stewardship of its portion of the Great Dismal Swamp, which young George Washington surveyed in the 1760s and 1770s and surely must have camped while slogging the wetlands.

The enchanting Dismal Swamp Canal’s southward route terminates with a lock in South Mills. The canal is maintained throughout the year and warrants exploration. Rowboats to cruising yachts are welcome. Call ahead for information and advice if you have not transited this historic channel. A meandering 13 more miles finds you in Elizabeth City where you have choices of anchoring, free docks, or a marina. 

Birding and Kayaking

With miles of secluded waterfronts along the Pasquotank and North Rivers, and the Albemarle Sound, the lifestyle and pace are perfect for boaters and outdoors adventurers. The undisturbed shorelines and deep woods of Camden County offer dividends to those who take time and binoculars to explore the array of resident and migratory birds and wildlife. Whether in a kayak or along a trail in Dismal Swamp State Park, serenity and solitude are unmatched. 

Home Cooking

One of the joys of stopping in small towns and cruising along rural routes is discovering where the locals eat, usually by counting cars in the parking lot.

You can, indeed, eat your way through Camden County and not go hungry. Sweet potato biscuits, hot and juicy burgers, or pizza like no other, there are options and new friends to make along the way. ?Find your favorites when in the county. We have ours.

Boating and Marinas

Marinas and boat landings are also easy to locate, and everyone is welcome. Plan your trip in advance, keep an eye on the weather. The rivers and open waters of Albemarle Sound are shallow but will toss up a rough ride when thunderstorms and frontal passages visit. Play it safe, have a plan, but get out there. 

Road Trips?

It’s okay to be a Sunday driver every now and then. If you are just passing through a region, sometimes blue highways are more relaxing than 8-lane superhighways. U.S. Route 17 bisects Camden County, while Routes 158, 34 and 343 complete the mix. Along them you will find restaurants, side roads, and history that exemplify America. Look for markers denoting the people, events, and places that have gone before us. 

Camden County, NC ?Then and Now

Many American cities and towns were named after Charles Pratt, 1^st Earl Camden. He championed support for American independence in Parliament of Great Britain, so in 1777 Camden County was formed and took on his moniker. Today the quiet farms, nature preserves, and waterfronts there remind us of our agrarian heritage and significant natural resources. Take time to explore and immerse yourself in this Preferred Destination.

Hope to see you there…