Blackwater River State Forest Coldwater Creek
Z
Reviewed Jul. 24, 2020

Overnight paddle or bust

I’ve been coming here for years. I haven’t camped at the campsite but I’ve canoe camped along the river. If you do the 23 mile paddle, you will barely see anyone for the first half and you can camp on any beach you please. Awesome trip for a big group, but also amazing if you want a primitive experience by yourself or with a partner. I’ve done both. Bathing in the river after sundown with my partner was fantastic. It’s a very leisurely paddle with mostly flat water, but don’t underestimate the obstacles in the river, especially if you’re in an aluminum canoe and inexperienced at paddling. The second half of the trip is loaded with day-trippers and tube floaters so you’ll definitely want to camp before you reach the halfway mark. Overall it’s a magical place and I highly recommend it.