Okefenokee Swamp
August 8th, 2007 by Sally
The number of alligators you will see and the number of water trails available to you will vary depending on the time of year you visit. It goes without saying that the first time you visit, you will probably want to go with an experienced guide. Both trips I took were with the Okefenokee Refuge Park staff–they are exceptional guides and extremely knowledgeable about the area. They also do a terrific job of making the many alligators around seem like “just another day in the boat”, a must for first-timers.
After half a day of kayaking the river canals, you’ll wish you had booked an entire day. Seriously, you will.
Contact the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge for information about paddling trips.
Tewksbury Pond
August 8th, 2007 by SallyTewksbury Pond is right on the Canaan/Grafton town line. It’s a very small pond, so don’t expect to spend a great deal of time here, unless you are planning to spend the afternoon floating. Tewksbury has several summer camps on the end closest to the put-in which are often quite busy. It’s also pretty close to Route 4, so it can be very noisy from cars passing. Very popular local fishing spot.
This isn’t one of my favorite spots, but if I don’t have time to go very far or spend a lot of time out on the water it’s sufficient for a quick fix. Occasionally, you will spot a Loon pair at the furthest end from the put-in.
Put-in
Cement boat ramp with ample depth for launch. You will usually be sharing the put-in with several fishing boats, so sometimes you’ll have to get creative about getting your boat in the water.
How to get there
Take Rte 4 east through Canaan Village. About 3 miles past Canaan Village you will come to Derry Point Landing on your right (look for state boat ramp sign). Up very steep and extremely narrow dirt road to ramp (and just hope you don’t meet another car).