The South Fork Catawba River - Lincolnton section begins at the Ramsour's Mill Trail which is on Clark Creek. Clark Creek connects to the South Fork Catawba River then travels down to the Betty Ross Park launch at approximately 2-miles. Please be respectful of adjoining private property along the river and limit use to public launches.
The South Fork River is a narrow, free-flowing river so water levels throughout the year are highly variable due to local rainfall as well as rainfall upstream. Check the water levels before heading out to the river, and be aware that river levels can change quickly over a short period of time. Average flow rates for the South Fork Catawba River in summer are between 400 to 500 CFS (cubic feet per second) and the river is relatively shallow and rocky with no whitewater. However, Class I and II rapids will develop at higher flow rates, and previous experience paddling in whitewater is recommended if you choose to run the river when flow rates are above 1000 CFS.
Launch 1: Ramsour's Mill Trail Launch
Address: 402 Jeb Seagle Drive, Lincolnton, NC 28082 MAP
Canoe/Kayak Launch: MAP
Operated by Lincoln County Historical Association
Launch 2: Betty Ross Park Launch
Address: 800 S Madison St., Lincolnton, NC 28092 MAP
Canoe/Kayak Launch: MAP
Operated by Lincolnton Parks and Recreation Department
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