McMullen Platform

For those of us who call North Carolina home, the allure of the outdoors is undeniable. From the majestic mountains to the serene coast, our state offers a diverse range of natural beauty. But for a truly unique and immersive outdoor experience, especially for paddlers, the McMullen Platform in Washington, NC, stands out as a hidden gem. This isn't your typical drive-up campground; it’s a specially designed, water-accessible camping platform that serves as a vital resting point along the scenic Tar-Pamlico River Water Trail. It offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with the river environment, providing a peaceful and memorable overnight stay for those exploring our state’s beautiful waterways.

Imagine paddling along the historic Tar River, the sun setting over the water, and then arriving at your elevated, screened-in sanctuary nestled right on the riverbank. That's the experience the McMullen Platform offers. It’s part of a larger network of platforms managed by Sound Rivers, an organization dedicated to protecting our local waterways, and it exemplifies a thoughtful approach to eco-tourism. This platform caters specifically to kayak, canoe, and stand-up paddleboard enthusiasts, creating a unique niche in North Carolina's camping scene. For locals in Eastern NC, it provides an accessible and distinct adventure right in our own backyard, perfect for a day paddle with an overnight twist or as a stop on a longer river journey.

While its primary purpose is to support paddlers on the Tar-Pamlico River Water Trail, the McMullen Platform embodies a simpler, more connected way of experiencing nature. It's about minimal impact and maximum enjoyment of the river's tranquility. If you're someone who appreciates the quiet hum of the river, the rustling of leaves, and the starry night sky unobstructed by city lights, then this unique camping opportunity near Washington is definitely worth exploring. It's a testament to the diverse outdoor experiences available right here in North Carolina, encouraging us to get out on the water and appreciate the natural wonders that flow through our communities.

The McMullen Platform is strategically located in Beaufort County, near the charming city of Washington, North Carolina. Its exact geographical coordinates are GWRH+9Q, Washington, NC 27817, USA. However, it's crucial to understand that this is not a roadside campground accessible by car. The McMullen Platform is exclusively a water-access-only site. This means that to reach it, you must arrive by personal watercraft, such as a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard. This feature is what makes the McMullen Platform so unique and appealing to those seeking a true paddling adventure.

The platform is situated just upstream from the Bridge Street bridge in downtown Washington, offering a wonderful view of the Washington Waterfront and the transition point where the Tar River officially becomes the Pamlico River. This prime location provides a sense of being both immersed in nature and yet conveniently close to urban amenities if needed. For day or overnight paddlers, common put-in points include Mason's Landing on Tranters Creek or Havens Gardens. These launch sites allow for a pleasant day paddle, with the McMullen Platform serving as an ideal mid-point or overnight destination. Its proximity to downtown Washington means that before or after your paddle, you can easily access local restaurants, shops, and attractions, making it a fantastic blend of wilderness and town convenience. This accessibility for paddlers, coupled with its serene location, truly highlights the platform as a significant asset for North Carolina's outdoor enthusiasts.

Given its nature as a water-access-only camping platform, the services offered at McMullen Platform are designed to be rustic and complement a minimalist paddling experience.

• Screened-in Shelter: Half of the 16’ by 32’ platform is enclosed with a roof and screened-in area, providing protection from insects and rain, ensuring a more comfortable overnight stay.

• Flat Sleeping Surface: The platform offers a solid, elevated surface for sleeping, a welcome alternative to pitching a tent directly on the ground.

• Water Access: Direct access to the Tar-Pamlico River for paddling and enjoying the water trail.

• Reservation System: Camping platform reservations are managed through Sound Rivers, ensuring a designated spot for your overnight stay. Reservations and permits can be made online.

• Portable Toilet Requirement: All campers using the platform are required to carry a portable toilet with detachable waste bags, emphasizing a Leave No Trace ethic and responsible waste management.

• Paddlers Notes Blog: While not a direct service at the platform, Sound Rivers maintains a "Paddlers Notes" blog with updates on Tar-Pamlico events and river conditions, a valuable resource for planning your trip.

• Volunteer and Donor Opportunities: Sound Rivers, the managing organization, relies on volunteers and donors, offering ways for visitors to contribute to the preservation of the rivers.

The McMullen Platform offers several distinct features that make it a standout choice for adventurous campers in North Carolina:

• Water-Access Only: This is its most defining feature, ensuring a unique and secluded experience accessible only to those traveling by paddle craft. It guarantees a truly immersive river camping adventure.

• Elevated Platform Design: The 16’ by 32’ platform lifts campers above the ground, providing a dry and level sleeping area, and offering panoramic views of the river.

• Screened-in Area: A significant portion of the platform is covered by a roof and surrounded by screens, offering crucial protection from bugs and inclement weather, which is especially valuable in Eastern North Carolina.

• Proximity to Downtown Washington: Despite its natural setting, the platform is remarkably close to downtown Washington, allowing paddlers to enjoy a quiet night in nature with the option of easily accessing city amenities before or after their stay.

• Part of the Tar-Pamlico River Water Trail: The McMullen Platform is a key component of this extensive water trail, making it an ideal stop for multi-day paddling excursions and exploration of the river system.

• Scenic River Views: Campers can enjoy beautiful vistas of the Tar River as it transitions into the Pamlico River, including views of the Washington Waterfront.

• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The river environment is rich with wildlife, offering chances to observe birds, fish, and other local fauna.

• Eco-Friendly Approach: The requirement for portable toilets and the overall design encourages a low-impact camping style, aligning with conservation efforts.

As the McMullen Platform is managed by Sound Rivers, a non-profit organization focused on river conservation, its pricing and any potential "promotions" are typically structured around supporting their mission and encouraging responsible river use. Direct discounts in the commercial sense are not usually offered. However, the value provided comes from the unique experience and the contribution to maintaining such vital outdoor resources.

• Affordable Pricing: The rental fee for the platform is generally quite affordable, often around $20 per night, which makes a unique overnight experience highly accessible to a broad range of paddlers.

• Optional Portable Toilet Rental: For those who do not own a portable toilet, Sound Rivers may offer an optional rental for a small additional fee (e.g., $10 per trip). This service ensures compliance with regulations and promotes environmental responsibility.

• Supporting a Cause: By reserving and using the McMullen Platform, campers directly support Sound Rivers' ongoing efforts in river conservation, advocacy, and education across the Tar-Pamlico and Neuse River Basins. This can be seen as a form of "promotion" for those who value environmental stewardship.

• Membership Benefits: While not specifically a discount on the platform, becoming a member of Sound Rivers could provide other benefits related to their programs, events, and a deeper connection to river conservation efforts in North Carolina.

It's always best to check the official Sound Rivers website (tarpamlicowatertrail.org) or contact them directly for the most current pricing and any specific offerings they might have, as these details can sometimes change.

To learn more about the McMullen Platform or to make a reservation, you can contact Sound Rivers, the managing organization.

Address: GWRH+9Q, Washington, NC 27817, USA (Note: This is a general geographical marker for the platform's location. Actual access is by water.)

For reservations and inquiries, it is recommended to visit their official website or contact them directly:

Website: tarpamlicowatertrail.org

Phone: (252) 946-7211

Email: admin@soundrivers.org

It is important to note that direct phone numbers for the platform itself are not provided as it is an unmanned, self-service site. All bookings and queries should go through Sound Rivers.

For North Carolina locals, the McMullen Platform offers a truly unique and enriching outdoor experience that stands apart from conventional camping. Its water-access-only nature means it's primarily suited for those who already enjoy or are looking to get into paddling, offering a compelling reason to explore our state's beautiful river systems. This isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural flow of the Tar-Pamlico River, gaining a perspective of our local landscape that's simply not possible from the roadside.

The platform’s location near Washington, NC, is a significant draw. It means you can embark on a peaceful paddling journey, spend a night under the stars in a screened-in, elevated shelter, and then easily return to a charming downtown area for a meal or to explore local shops and attractions. This blend of remote tranquility and urban convenience is a perfect fit for many North Carolinians who appreciate both nature and the comforts of small-town life. Furthermore, by utilizing the McMullen Platform, you're directly supporting Sound Rivers, a dedicated organization working to protect and preserve our precious waterways. For environmentally conscious locals, this adds an extra layer of meaning to their outdoor adventure. It’s an accessible way to engage with conservation efforts right here in our own communities.

Whether you're an experienced kayaker seeking a new challenge, a family looking for an unforgettable and slightly adventurous overnight trip, or simply someone yearning to disconnect and experience the river in a profound way, the McMullen Platform delivers. It encourages us to appreciate the lesser-seen aspects of our state's natural beauty and reminds us of the incredible outdoor recreation opportunities available right on our doorsteps. For those in Eastern North Carolina, it's not just a campground; it’s an invitation to paddle, explore, and connect with the heart of our region's waterways.

McMullen Platform

GWRH+9Q, Washington, NC 27817, USA