Big Creek (Dan R. trib. [Stokes Co.])

CAUTION: I just spoke with the owners of the land at the put-in and take out referenced on this page. The land currently being used for the put in is private, and the landowner is no longer willing to permit paddlers to use his land - because people have been blocking his driveway. DO NOT USE THE RECOMMENDED PUT IN, or you may be towed or charged with trespassing. The landowner was very polite, but simply no longer wishes to provide public access on his private land due to the behavior of paddlers abusing the privilege.

That call was followed up by a call from the the landowner at the referenced take-out, who has similar concerns. He expressed his view that their is no legal way to access the river near the mentioned take out and that even paddling down the stream constituted trespassing. He was clear that he intends to call the sheriff if people access the river on his property, and maybe even if they paddle through. While it is unclear if there is an easement at the bridge sufficient to provide public access at the takeout, until this is researched by someone paddlers are encouraged not to use the take out either.

AW staff have not visited this area or researched this matter fully, but based on the calls we just recieved it appears clear that boaters should no longer use the current put in which is clearly private and should avoid using the take out as well.

It is illegal to walk over someones land to get to or from a river in NC without permission. It is totally legal to paddle down any stream capable of being paddled in NC, based on the opinion issued by the attorney general in 1998. The grey area surrounds the right to portage or scout from the stream bank.

No matter what, if you choose to paddle Big Creek, make every effort to not get out of your boat or at least out of the streambed. Do not put in on these folks land. Part of supporting the public's right to paddle downstream is supporting private landowners wishes and rights, so be considerate and respectful.

Concerned paddlers are welcome to call me at 406-543-1802 to discuss this matter.

Kevin Colburn