Situated along Fish Factory Road just minutes from downtown Southport and Oak Island, the Bill Smith Park and NC Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) boat ramp complex serves as one of Brunswick County’s most versatile launch sites. Offering an accessible kayak dock alongside a sandy shoreline margin, this location provides paddle access to protected salt marshes, Dutchman Creek, and the Intracoastal Waterway (ICW).
Smith Park & Wildlife Ramp Specs
Recommended Kayak Routes
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Dutchman Creek Inland Marsh (Beginner): Paddle north into the winding upper reaches of Dutchman Creek. Leaving powerboat traffic behind, this sheltered creek features calm brackish water, tall Spartina grass, and frequent sightings of blue herons, snowy egrets, and leaping mullet.
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Elizabeth River Backwaters (Intermediate): Navigate west through the marsh tributaries connecting Dutchman Creek to the Elizabeth River. These intricate, maze-like tidal sloughs behind Oak Island offer miles of wind-protected exploring away from open-water chop.
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Oak Island Marsh & Lighthouse Vista: Route south along the tidal flats bordering the ICW. On clear days, this open marsh trail delivers sweeping views of the coastal skyline and the distant top of the Oak Island Lighthouse.
Local Tidal & Safety Tips
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True All-Tide Launching: Unlike shallow creek access points that turn to impassable mud at low tide, the Fish Factory Road launch retains sufficient water depth during all tide phases.
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Manage Channel Currents: Water moves quickly where Dutchman Creek opens into the ICW. Time your trip to paddle against the tide on your way out so the returning flow carries you back effortlessly.
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Use Designated Kayak Areas: The state boat ramp sees heavy powerboat trailer traffic on weekends. Launch from the dedicated kayak dock at Bill Smith Park or the sandy shore margin south of the main ramps to avoid motorized vessel congestion.
Recommended Gear for Coastal NC Waterways
Crossing mud flats and oyster-lined creek beds requires dependable gear. Stop by Yakworks Kayak of Southport before hitting the water:
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Traction & Foot Protection: Shield your feet from oyster shells with sticky-soled water shoes like the Astral Loyak, Astral Crewer, or NRS paddling boots.
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PFDs & Sun Coverage: Stay safe in tidal currents with non-toxic, PFAS-free Astral life jackets, and shield yourself from coastal UV exposure with wide-brim sun hats and breathable UPF apparel.