Hindsley Platform

Hey there, North Carolina adventurers! Are you ready for a truly unique way to experience our state's beautiful waterways? If you love to paddle and enjoy a serene night under the stars, then the Hindsley Platform near Washington, NC, is a destination you absolutely need to discover. This isn't your typical roadside campground; it's a special, water-accessible camping platform, part of the extensive Tar-Pamlico River Water Trail, offering an unforgettable and peaceful escape from the everyday.

The Hindsley Platform provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to camp right on Broad Creek, a tributary of the Pamlico River. Imagine paddling through the calm waters, reaching your destination, and then settling into a screened-in platform that offers protection from insects while still immersing you in the sounds and sights of the river. It's an ideal spot for kayak and canoe enthusiasts, offering a blend of adventure and tranquility that's hard to find anywhere else. Donated by Jan Hindsley, this platform is a testament to community efforts to enhance outdoor recreation along our vital river systems.

This facility is perfect for day paddlers looking for a unique lunch spot or overnight adventurers embarking on longer journeys along the Tar-Pamlico River Water Trail. It's a testament to North Carolina's commitment to eco-tourism and providing access to our diverse natural landscapes in innovative ways.

The Hindsley Platform is uniquely located at 598 Harvey Rd, Washington, NC 27889, USA. However, it's crucial to understand that while this address points to its general vicinity in Beaufort County, the Hindsley Platform itself is accessible only by water. It is situated on the north side of the Pamlico River, about two miles upstream from the mouth of Broad Creek. This water-only accessibility is a defining characteristic of this type of "platform camping" experience along the Tar-Pamlico River Water Trail.

For North Carolinians planning a trip, the closest put-in point for your kayak or canoe is McCotter's Marina on Broad Creek. Other nearby launch sites suitable for reaching the platform include Dinah's Landing on Goose Creek State Park (which might be a longer paddle depending on your skill level and desired trip length) or Haven's Gardens on Runyan Creek. While these points are accessible by car, once you launch, your paddle becomes your mode of transportation to the platform. This makes Hindsley Platform an ideal destination for those who enjoy paddling and are comfortable with a more self-sufficient camping style.

Its location near Washington, NC, means that while you're experiencing a wild and secluded camping adventure, you're not too far from the amenities and charm of a historic waterfront town. Washington offers a variety of services, restaurants, and attractions should you need to resupply or desire a taste of local culture before or after your paddling journey. This blend of remote nature and nearby urban convenience makes the Hindsley Platform an excellent choice for a distinctive North Carolina outdoor experience.

• Screened-in Platform: The primary service is the provision of a secure, elevated platform that is screened in, offering protection from insects and a comfortable, dry place to set up your sleeping gear.
• Water-Accessible Only: This is a key service aspect – the platform is designed for paddlers and is accessible exclusively by kayak, canoe, or small boat.
• Portable Toilet Requirement: Campers are required to carry a portable toilet with detachable waste bags for their camping/paddling trip. This emphasizes responsible waste management in a sensitive natural environment.
• Online Reservations and Permits: Reservations are required and can be made conveniently online at any time, ensuring you have a confirmed spot on the platform.
• Checkout Time: Checkout time is 1:00 PM the day after your reserved night, allowing for a leisurely morning.
• Part of Tar-Pamlico River Water Trail: As a site on this water trail, it supports multi-day paddling excursions, providing a designated stopover point.
• Donated Site: The Hindsley Platform was generously donated, contributing to public access for outdoor recreation.

• Unique Camping Experience: Hindsley Platform offers a distinct camping style, providing an elevated, screened-in structure rather than traditional ground camping. This is a significant highlight for those seeking something different.
• Direct Water Access and Views: Being situated directly on Broad Creek provides immediate access to the water for paddling and offers stunning, peaceful views of the creek and surrounding natural landscape.
• Peace and Quiet: Reviewers of similar platforms on the water trail often highlight the incredible tranquility and seclusion. The water-only access means no car noise, just the sounds of nature.
• Insect Protection: The screened-in nature of the platform is a major benefit, providing a barrier against mosquitoes and other insects, allowing for a more comfortable night's sleep, especially during warmer months.
• Ideal for Paddlers: This platform is tailor-made for kayak and canoe enthusiasts, serving as a perfect overnight stop on extended paddling trips or a unique destination for a shorter outing.
• Gateway to Tar-Pamlico Water Trail: As part of the larger water trail, it encourages exploration of the extensive river system, promoting eco-tourism and appreciation for North Carolina's coastal plain rivers.
• Beautiful Sunrises/Sunsets: Elevated views over the water often provide spectacular sunrise and sunset vistas, enhancing the natural beauty of the experience.

Based on the available public information, Hindsley Platform, as a facility managed by the Tar-Pamlico River Water Trail, does not typically offer traditional "promotions" or "special offers" in the commercial sense. Its pricing structure is usually a fixed fee per night for the use of the platform, intended to help cover maintenance and operational costs of the water trail.

The core "offer" of Hindsley Platform lies in its unique and valuable service: providing a dedicated, safe, and screened overnight camping spot exclusively for paddlers on the Tar-Pamlico River Water Trail. This in itself is a significant benefit for those undertaking multi-day paddling adventures who require designated stopover points.

While there might not be discounts, the cost to reserve the Hindsley Platform is generally very reasonable, reflecting its purpose as a low-impact, environmentally conscious camping option. Currently, the Tar-Pamlico River Water Trail website indicates prices for other platforms starting "from $20," suggesting a similar affordable rate for Hindsley. It's important to check the official Tar-Pamlico Water Trail website for the most current booking fees and policies. Any "supplements" like the optional portable toilet rental would be an additional, small charge.

To learn about the exact cost per night and to make a reservation, interested North Carolinians should visit the official Tar-Pamlico River Water Trail website or contact them directly.

• Address (Approximate Location/Access Point): 598 Harvey Rd, Washington, NC 27889, USA (Note: Actual platform is water-accessible only)
• Phone: (252) 946-7211
• Mobile Phone: +1 252-946-7211
• Website: For reservations and detailed information, it is essential to visit the official Tar-Pamlico Water Trail website (tarpamlicowatertrail.org). This is where you will find the booking calendar and all necessary regulations.

For North Carolina locals, the Hindsley Platform offers an unparalleled opportunity to truly immerse yourselves in our state's rich natural waterways in a way that traditional camping often can't. If you're a paddler – whether you prefer kayaking, canoeing, or stand-up paddleboarding – this unique, water-accessible camping platform provides the perfect destination for a single-night escape or a crucial stop on a multi-day river journey.

The "peace and quiet" found on Broad Creek, far from the hustle and bustle of roads and typical campgrounds, is a significant draw. It’s an ideal setting for those who want to truly disconnect, enjoy the sounds of nature, and witness the stunning sunrises and sunsets over the water. The screened-in design is a practical advantage, offering comfort and protection from insects, allowing for a more restful night's sleep in the outdoors.

Furthermore, utilizing the Hindsley Platform supports local conservation efforts and the development of our state's water trails, directly contributing to more recreational opportunities for everyone. It’s a chance to explore a part of North Carolina that feels wild and untouched, all while being managed responsibly for public enjoyment. For the adventurous spirit among us, who cherish our rivers and seek unique outdoor experiences, the Hindsley Platform on the Tar-Pamlico Water Trail is a truly recommended and suitable destination right here in our backyard.

Hindsley Platform

598 Harvey Rd, Washington, NC 27889, USA