Three Sisters

For North Carolinians who yearn for an immersive, truly unique outdoor experience, far from the crowds and the hum of modern life, Three Sisters offers an exceptional opportunity. Located near Windsor, NC, this isn't your typical drive-up campground. Instead, Three Sisters is a distinct camping platform, a part of the incredible network of river campsites managed by Roanoke River Partners, an organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the natural beauty of the Roanoke River Basin. It offers a remote, paddle-in experience that connects campers directly with the serene beauty of the region's expansive river system.

North Carolina's diverse landscapes offer everything from majestic mountains to sandy beaches, but the vast network of blackwater rivers and swamp forests of the Inner Banks often remains a hidden gem for many. Three Sisters exemplifies this unique ecosystem, providing a vantage point to appreciate the towering cypress trees, the quiet flow of the water, and the abundant wildlife that thrives in this rich environment. For locals seeking an adventure that combines paddling, primitive camping, and profound solitude, Three Sisters stands as an ideal destination, promising a memorable escape into the heart of Eastern North Carolina's wilderness.

In this article, we'll delve into the specifics of Three Sisters, detailing its location and how to access it, the unique services it offers (or doesn't, intentionally!), and what features make it a truly special highlight for those ready to embrace a different kind of camping. By the end, you'll understand why this platform is a perfect fit for North Carolinians eager to explore the hidden waterways and unparalleled natural beauty of their state.

Three Sisters is uniquely located where Broad Creek, an arm of the Roanoke River, branches into three small, "sister" creeks, near Windsor, NC 27983, USA. This specific address denotes the general area but is crucial to understand that Three Sisters is not a roadside campground you can drive up to. It is a remote, paddle-in/paddle-out camping platform, meaning access is exclusively by boat – typically a kayak or canoe.

To reach Three Sisters, you would typically launch your paddle craft from a nearby public access point on the Roanoke River or one of its tributaries. The website for Roanoke River Partners (who manage this site) indicates that you follow "the middle sister" creek to find the path to this tranquil spot, looking for a tall, young cypress tree standing sentinel at the dock. The precise GPS coordinates are 35°51'03.4″N 76°52'45.0″W (35.850931, -76.879176), which can be invaluable for navigation with a GPS device.

This "boat-only" accessibility is a significant part of Three Sisters' appeal, as it ensures a level of seclusion and quiet rarely found in drive-up campgrounds. It requires a bit more planning and effort but rewards campers with an unparalleled sense of wilderness. Windsor, NC, serves as the nearest town, offering limited supplies, gas stations, and local eateries for pre- or post-trip needs. For North Carolina locals looking to truly disconnect and explore the intricate waterways of the Inner Banks, Three Sisters offers a perfectly situated and exhilaratingly remote basecamp.

Given its remote, paddle-in nature, Three Sisters offers a minimalist yet comfortable camping experience focused on integrating with the natural environment. The "services" provided are geared towards supporting a primitive camping style while enhancing comfort and minimizing environmental impact. It's crucial to note that this is not a developed campground with extensive facilities; campers are expected to be self-sufficient.

• Raised Camping Platform: The primary service is the 28′ x 16′ raised wooden camping platform itself. This platform elevates campers above potential wet ground or high water levels, providing a dry and stable surface for pitching tents and enjoying the surroundings.
• Small Landing/Dock: There is a small landing at the base of the platform (measuring 70″ x 100″) for easy boat access, allowing campers to securely tie up their kayaks or canoes.
• Wooden Enclosure for Privacy: A wooden enclosure on the walkway to the platform can be used for privacy (with an entrance opening of 21 inches wide). While described as a "privacy area," it's important to understand there are no built-in facilities.
• Picnic Table: A 4-foot long picnic table has been added to the main platform, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation and dining.
• Leave No Trace Focus: While not a direct service, the management by Roanoke River Partners emphasizes "Leave No Trace" guidelines. Campers are expected to pack out everything they pack in, including waste. This ensures the pristine nature of the site is maintained for future visitors.
• No Facilities On-Site: It is explicitly stated that "there are no facilities" at Three Sisters. This means no restrooms, no potable water, and no electricity. Campers must bring their own water, and follow "pack it in, pack it out" principles for human waste (e.g., using a WAG bag system or designated portable toilet).

This intentional lack of extensive services underscores Three Sisters' appeal as a true wilderness camping experience, perfect for prepared and self-reliant outdoor enthusiasts.

Three Sisters, while minimalist in services, offers a wealth of unique features and highlights that make it a truly memorable camping destination for North Carolinians:

• Exclusive Paddle-In Access: The most defining feature is that the site is only accessible by boat. This ensures unparalleled seclusion and tranquility, providing a true escape from roads, cars, and typical campground noise. It's a key draw for those seeking a more adventurous and private experience.
• Raised Camping Platform: The sturdy wooden platform elevates campers above the natural terrain, offering a dry, level, and comfortable surface for tents and gear, especially valuable in swampy or flood-prone river environments. It also provides a unique vantage point for observing the surrounding nature.
• Immersive Roanoke River Basin Experience: Located where Broad Creek branches into three smaller waterways, the site provides a deep immersion into the unique blackwater river ecosystem. Campers are surrounded by towering cypress and tupelo trees, experiencing the sounds and sights of the swamp forest up close.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The remote, natural setting is ideal for spotting local wildlife. The Roanoke River Basin is rich in biodiversity, offering chances to see various bird species, river otters, turtles, and other native creatures in their natural habitat.
• Tranquil and Secluded: Reviews and descriptions consistently emphasize the peace and quiet of the location. It's the perfect spot for deep relaxation, stargazing without light pollution, and truly unwinding.
• Managed by Roanoke River Partners: Being part of the Roanoke River Paddle Trail network, the site benefits from the ongoing conservation efforts of Roanoke River Partners, ensuring the area's ecological health and continued accessibility for recreation.
• Unique Aesthetic: The description mentions following "the middle sister" creek and looking for a "tall, young cypress standing sentinel at the dock," painting a picture of a picturesque and distinctive natural landmark that guides you to your campsite.
• Ideal for Self-Reliant Campers: This site is a highlight for experienced and prepared campers who enjoy primitive camping. It encourages self-sufficiency and adherence to "Leave No Trace" principles, fostering a deeper connection with nature.

As a unique, conservation-focused camping platform managed by Roanoke River Partners, Three Sisters does not typically offer commercial promotions, discounts, or special packages in the way a private resort might. Its appeal lies in its inherent value: providing access to a unique, remote, and ecologically significant camping experience at a very reasonable rate.

The standard nightly rate for the Three Sisters camping platform is generally set and published by Roanoke River Partners, often around $25 per night. This fee contributes directly to the maintenance of the platform itself, the broader river trail system, and the conservation efforts of the organization. Given the uniqueness of the experience and the environmental stewardship it supports, this price is considered highly valuable by those who seek this type of remote adventure.

For the most current pricing, booking availability, and any specific policies regarding reservations, it is always recommended to visit the official Roanoke River Partners website directly or contact them via their provided contact information. They are the authoritative source for all details related to Three Sisters and their other river camping platforms.

For inquiries, reservations, or to learn more about the Three Sisters camping platform and other Roanoke River campsites, it is best to contact Roanoke River Partners directly. They are the managing organization for this unique network of river access points and camping platforms.

Address: Roanoke River Partners, Inc. Post Office Box 488, Windsor, North Carolina 27983-0488

Phone: For reservations/info, call (252) 792-3790

Email: contact@roanokeriverpartners.org

You can also find extensive information and often make reservations directly through their official website, which is typically well-maintained with details on each platform and the overall Roanoke River Paddle Trail.

For North Carolina residents, Three Sisters offers a profoundly suitable and uniquely compelling camping experience, especially for those seeking an authentic immersion into the state's lesser-known, yet incredibly rich, blackwater river ecosystems. It’s an ideal destination for locals who have already explored the mountains and beaches and are now looking for a different kind of outdoor adventure – one that emphasizes quiet, self-reliance, and a deep connection with nature.

The paddle-in accessibility ensures a level of seclusion that is increasingly rare in popular camping areas, allowing North Carolinians to truly disconnect from the everyday and fully embrace the tranquility of the Roanoke River Basin. This remoteness, coupled with the unique comfort of a raised platform, offers a blend of primitive adventure and practical shelter that appeals to experienced kayakers, canoeists, and those eager to expand their outdoor skills. The opportunity to camp directly over the water, surrounded by ancient cypress trees and the subtle sounds of the swamp, provides an unforgettable experience that highlights a distinct facet of North Carolina's natural beauty.

Moreover, supporting Three Sisters means supporting Roanoke River Partners, a local organization dedicated to conserving these precious riverine habitats and promoting responsible outdoor recreation. For North Carolinians who value conservation and seek unique, meaningful encounters with their state's diverse landscapes, Three Sisters offers an unparalleled and truly "wild" camping adventure right in their own backyard.

Three Sisters

Windsor, NC 27983, USA