Pamlico Sea Base | BSA

pamlico sea base

For Scout Troops, Crews, Sea Ships, and Explorer Posts across North Carolina and beyond, Pamlico Sea Base | BSA in Blounts Creek offers an unparalleled high adventure aquatic experience. This isn't just a campground; it's a unique and dynamic program facility designed to immerse Scouts in nautical and boating adventures along the historic Pamlico River and the captivating North Carolina coastline, including the Outer Banks. It’s a place where leadership skills are honed, teamwork flourishes, and unforgettable memories are made on the water and in the rich coastal environment of Eastern North Carolina.

Pamlico Sea Base stands out as a one-of-a-kind Scouting program, providing exclusive aquatics experiences that are hard to find elsewhere. Local North Carolina Scouts have the extraordinary opportunity to explore the state's renowned waterways, from the Pamlico River to the diverse ecosystems of the Outer Banks. Reviews consistently highlight the "super fun experience" with activities like extensive kayaking, camping with wild horses, and even crabbing at night. The incredible programs for those "looking for nautical and boating experiences" make it an ideal destination for Scouts who dream of adventures on the water, fostering a deep appreciation for North Carolina's coastal treasures.

Pamlico Sea Base | BSA is located in Blounts Creek, NC 27814, USA. This strategic location places it directly on the Pamlico River, one of North Carolina's largest estuaries, which eventually flows into Pamlico Sound. The broader region is part of Eastern North Carolina, characterized by its coastal plains, wetlands, and extensive waterways.

Accessibility for North Carolina Scouts and groups is convenient. Blounts Creek is situated within reasonable driving distance from major population centers in the state. For instance, from Raleigh or Greenville, the drive would typically involve taking US-264 East towards Washington, NC, and then connecting to local roads that lead to Blounts Creek. From coastal cities like Wilmington or Fayetteville, routes might involve US-17 North or NC-24 East, followed by connections to the regional highway network. The Base's location provides excellent access to the Pamlico River and serves as a gateway to more extensive aquatic adventures, including trips to the Outer Banks. The ability for units to travel together to a single, convenient location is a significant advantage, allowing for coordinated travel plans for groups coming from various parts of North Carolina. The address, often listed as 419 Camp Bonner Boy Scout Rd, Blounts Creek, NC 27814, firmly roots it within the East Carolina Scout Reservation, ensuring a clear destination for visitors.

Pamlico Sea Base | BSA offers a robust array of services and programs, tailored specifically for Scouting units and groups seeking high-adventure aquatic experiences. These are designed to be immersive, educational, and challenging.

• Structured High Adventure Programs: The core offering includes a variety of multi-day high adventure programs, such as Sea Kayak Trek, Sailing Trek, Cycling Trek, and Scuba Camp. These programs often involve live-aboard experiences or extended treks.
• Diverse Aquatic Activities: In-camp programs and day trips offer activities like small boat sailing (e.g., Sunfish), jet skiing, wakeboarding, tubing, water skiing, knee-boarding, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and recreational kayaking.
• Fishing Expeditions: Guests can participate in various fishing opportunities, including half-day and full-day deep-sea fishing (at additional cost), shark fishing, crabbing and fishing in the evenings, and flounder gigging. Units that catch fish may have the opportunity to prepare their catch.
• Overnight Treks: Options like the Kayaking Overnight and Ocracoke Island Overnight allow for multi-day immersion in the coastal environment, including "camping on the beach by the Cape Lookout lighthouse."
• Environmental and Marine Science Education: Programs often incorporate elements of marine science, studying ecosystems, observing wildlife (like jellyfish and wild horses), and understanding the delicate balance of coastal environments.
• Off-Camp Excursions: Trips to local points of interest like Fort Macon State Park, NC Maritime Museum at Beaufort, NC Aquarium at Atlantic Beach, NC Estuarium & Historic Washington Waterfront, and Aurora Fossil Museum offer cultural and educational enrichment.
• Food Service: Meals are typically provided as part of the program, with reviews mentioning aspects like a "pig-picking, cookout, hobo night, or fish fry" for group dinners.
• Accommodation Options: While many programs involve live-aboard experiences or primitive camping, the base also offers comfortable cabins and dorms with amenities like air conditioning (though conditions can vary).
• Well-Maintained Facilities: Reviews mention "the grounds are well kept and facilities are nice" and that the "bathhouse was clean, safe and very handy," indicating a commitment to cleanliness and functionality.
• Trading Post/Gift Shop: A "trading post" or "gift shop" is available for purchasing souvenirs and essentials.

Pamlico Sea Base | BSA offers an incredible array of features and highlights that make it a truly unique and enriching experience for Scouting members in North Carolina.

• OBX and IBX Adventures: The "OBX" (Outer Banks) and "IBX" (Inner Banks) programs are central to the Sea Base experience, offering distinct sets of adventures from deep-sea fishing to exploring historic Blount's Bay and the iconic Outer Banks.
• Unique Wildlife Encounters: Reviewers highlight the excitement of being able to "see horses and camp with them" (referring to wild horses on Shackleford Banks or similar areas) and "catch lots of crabs at night!" as well as "see a lot of jellyfish," providing memorable wildlife interactions.
• Hands-On Nautical Skill Development: Programs like Sailing Trek and Sea Kayak Trek provide practical, hands-on learning in seamanship, navigation, and paddling techniques, fostering valuable outdoor skills.
• Flexible Program Building: Units can often "build the schedule together" with the staff, allowing for customization of activities to meet the group's specific interests and needs.
• Experienced and Supportive Staff: Reviewers praise the "unbelievably accommodating" staff who "let the kids lead and provided all support necessary," and were "educational when he could be about the areas we camped and the history of each location." This high level of staff support enhances the learning and safety aspects of the adventures.
• Historic and Scenic Location: Situated on the Pamlico River, an area rich in history (e.g., Blackbeard lore) and natural beauty, the location itself is a significant highlight for exploration.
• Emphasis on Personal Growth: The challenging nature of some treks, like the kayaking trip where "female scouts" had to "work a little harder to keep up with the boys," but "built character" and showed them "they could overcome adversity," highlights the personal development aspect of the programs.
• Community and Inter-Unit Interaction: Opportunities to "work with other units" and see groups "mesh well with each other" foster a sense of broader Scouting community.
• High-Quality Equipment and Vessels: The use of "large sailing vessel over 40 feet long" and other appropriate equipment facilitates the high adventure activities safely and effectively.

As a specialized high adventure base for the Boy Scouts of America, Pamlico Sea Base | BSA operates differently from public campgrounds regarding promotions. Its programs are typically offered to registered Scouting units and members, with fees structured around the adventure programs themselves.

While direct "promotions" in the commercial sense may not be widely advertised, groups should:

• Inquire about Group Rates: As one review suggests, "ask for group rates." BSA programs often have tiered pricing or special considerations for larger units or councils.
• Check for Specific Program Costs: Certain activities, particularly deep-sea fishing or specialized excursions, may have additional costs. It's crucial for unit leaders to review program packets thoroughly for these details.
• Look for Early Bird Registration: BSA camps sometimes offer discounts for early registration for their summer or high adventure programs.
• Explore Council Resources: The East Carolina Council (which operates Pamlico Sea Base) or your local BSA council may have scholarships, grants, or fundraising opportunities to help offset program costs for Scouts.
• Weekend Programs: Pamlico Sea Base offers "Year-round weekend programs" which might be more accessible or differently priced than the longer summer high adventure sessions.

For detailed information on programs, eligibility, pricing, and to book an adventure for your Scouting unit, please use the following contact information for Pamlico Sea Base | BSA:

Address: Blounts Creek, NC 27814, USA (often specified as 419 Camp Bonner Boy Scout Rd, Blounts Creek, NC 27814, which is part of the larger East Carolina Scout Reservation)

Phone: (252) 522-1521 (Main line for East Carolina Council, often directs to Sea Base staff)

Primary Contact for Pamlico Sea Base: Matthew Banaszewski - (907) 987-4206 (as per one source, though general council number may be more consistent). Another source provides email as Matthew.compton@scouting.org.

It is highly recommended for unit leaders to contact the Pamlico Sea Base staff or the East Carolina Council directly. This will ensure you receive the most accurate and up-to-date information on program availability, prerequisites (like swimming tests and medical forms), costs, and scheduling. Given the specialized nature of the high adventure programs, direct communication is key to a successful planning process.

For North Carolina locals involved in Scouting, Pamlico Sea Base | BSA is an absolutely essential destination. Its suitability lies in its unique and comprehensive focus on aquatic high adventure, offering experiences that are simply unmatched by traditional campgrounds. From kayaking the scenic Pamlico River and catching crabs at night to embarking on sailing treks and exploring the Outer Banks, it provides unparalleled opportunities for skill development, environmental education, and personal growth. The program's design, which allows units to customize their schedule and benefit from highly supportive staff, ensures a tailored and impactful experience. Beyond the thrilling activities, the chance to interact with local wildlife and camp in beautiful coastal settings creates lasting memories. For any North Carolina Scout unit looking to fulfill the promise of adventure and push their boundaries in a safe, structured, and incredibly fun environment, Pamlico Sea Base is the ultimate choice, turning scouting dreams into reality on the water.

Pamlico Sea Base | BSA

Blounts Creek, NC 27814, USA