Hindsley Platform

For those of us in North Carolina who seek a truly unique and serene escape into nature, one that combines the joy of paddling with the tranquility of a secluded camping spot, the Hindsley Platform offers an exceptional experience. This isn't your typical bustling campground; instead, it's a thoughtfully designed platform campsite that promises an immersive connection with the natural beauty of our state's waterways. Nestled along Broad Creek, a picturesque tributary of the Tar River, the Hindsley Platform invites you to leave the everyday behind and embrace the peace and quiet that only a remote, water-accessible site can provide.

As a proud part of the extensive Tar-Pamlico River Water Trail, the Hindsley Platform embodies an innovative approach to outdoor recreation. It provides a stable, elevated, and often screened-in area for camping, ensuring comfort and protection while allowing you to fully appreciate the unique wetland environment. This particular platform is celebrated for its peaceful ambiance and its location, which is ideal for both short paddles and longer excursions along the water trail. Whether you're a seasoned kayaker or canoeist looking for a new adventure, or simply a North Carolina local yearning for a distinctive overnight stay in a pristine natural setting, the Hindsley Platform offers an engaging and memorable experience that will undoubtedly leave you feeling refreshed and connected to our beautiful outdoors.

The Hindsley Platform is located in Beaufort County, North Carolina, at 598 Harvey Rd, Washington, NC 27889, USA. More specifically, it is situated on the North side of the Tar River, approximately two miles upstream from the mouth of Broad Creek. This placement on Broad Creek offers a particularly tranquil setting, away from the main river traffic, ensuring a peaceful and quiet camping experience.

Accessibility to the Hindsley Platform is exclusively by water, which is a key aspect of its remote and unique appeal. This means campers will need to arrive by kayak, canoe, or a similar small watercraft. For those looking for convenient put-in points, several options are available. McCotter's Marina on Broad Creek is cited as the closest put-in for day or overnight paddlers, offering a direct route to the platform. Other possible launch points include Dinah's Landing on Goose Creek State Park or Haven's Gardens on Runyan Creek, allowing for a longer, scenic paddle before reaching the platform. This water-only access enhances the sense of adventure and seclusion, creating an authentic wilderness experience. For North Carolina locals, it provides an excellent opportunity to explore the lesser-known, yet incredibly beautiful, tributaries of our coastal rivers. The journey to the platform becomes an integral part of the adventure, offering stunning views and a chance to observe the local wildlife along the way.

As a dedicated platform campsite designed for remote, water-accessible camping, the Hindsley Platform offers services focused on facilitating a responsible and enjoyable experience in a natural setting. These provisions ensure that campers can make the most of their stay while adhering to environmental best practices.

• Online Reservation System: To ensure availability and proper management of the site, reservations for the Hindsley Platform must be made online through the Tar-Pamlico River Water Trail's booking system. This process is straightforward and allows campers to plan their trip efficiently.
• Required Portable Toilet Usage: A crucial service requirement for all campers utilizing the platform is the mandatory use of a portable toilet with detachable waste bags. This policy is in strict adherence to "Leave No Trace" principles, ensuring that human waste is properly contained and removed from the site, thereby preserving the pristine nature of Broad Creek and its surrounding environment. An optional portable toilet rental may be available for an additional fee if needed.
• Comprehensive Camping Regulations: Prior to their visit, campers are required to review detailed regulations and policies, which are accessible through the "Camping Downloads" section on the Tar-Pamlico River Water Trail website. This ensures that all visitors are well-informed about responsible camping practices, safety guidelines, and environmental stewardship specific to platform camping in this unique ecosystem.

The Hindsley Platform is celebrated for a variety of features and highlights that contribute to its appeal as a distinctive camping destination in North Carolina. These elements combine to offer a truly memorable outdoor experience.

• Peaceful and Quiet Getaway: The platform is specifically noted for providing a "wonderful getaway with peace and quiet." Its location on Broad Creek, slightly removed from the main Tar River, contributes significantly to this tranquil atmosphere, making it ideal for those seeking solitude and relaxation.
• Screened-In Platform: A key comfort feature is the screened-in area on the platform. This design element offers crucial protection from insects and provides shelter during inclement weather, allowing campers to enjoy their surroundings comfortably without being bothered by bugs or rain.
• Strategic Location on Broad Creek: The platform's placement on Broad Creek, about two miles upstream from its mouth, offers a unique vantage point for observing the creek's ecology and enjoying its calm waters. It’s an ideal spot for exploring this beautiful tributary.
• Donated by Jan Hindsley: The site was generously "donated by Jan Hindsley," highlighting a local commitment to preserving and promoting outdoor recreation opportunities in the region. This act of community support adds to the unique story and charm of the platform.
• Part of the Tar-Pamlico River Water Trail: As an official camping site along this extensive water trail, the Hindsley Platform serves as an excellent overnight stop for paddlers embarking on multi-day river trips, offering a designated and safe resting point.
• Accessibility from Various Put-Ins: Campers have the flexibility to choose from multiple nearby put-in points, such as McCotter's Marina, Dinah's Landing at Goose Creek State Park, or Haven's Gardens. This allows for customized paddling routes and distances to reach the platform.
• Beautiful Views for Through Paddlers: For those on longer paddling journeys, the platform offers "beautiful views of Broad Creek," providing a scenic reward and a serene backdrop for an overnight stay.
• Immersive Nature Experience: The water-only access and remote setting ensure a deep immersion in nature, offering ample opportunities for birdwatching, observing aquatic life, and appreciating the unspoiled beauty of the Eastern North Carolina wetlands.

For those interested in experiencing the tranquility of the Hindsley Platform, here is the essential contact and location information:

Address: 598 Harvey Rd, Washington, NC 27889, USA

Phone: (252) 946-7211

Mobile Phone: +1 252-946-7211

Please note: While a phone number for general inquiries related to the Tar-Pamlico River Water Trail might be available, reservations for the Hindsley Platform itself are typically made online through the official Tar-Pamlico River Water Trail website. It is highly recommended to visit their website for the most current booking information, availability, detailed regulations (including the mandatory portable toilet policy), and any updates on river conditions or access points.

For North Carolina locals, the Hindsley Platform presents an exceptionally suitable and rewarding option for their next outdoor adventure. Its unique water-only accessibility offers a distinct challenge and reward, transforming a simple camping trip into a true paddling expedition that allows for a deeper appreciation of our state's beautiful waterways. The peaceful and quiet setting on Broad Creek is a significant draw, providing a genuine escape from the noise and demands of daily life, something many of us in North Carolina truly value in our outdoor pursuits.

The practical benefit of a screened-in platform cannot be overstated, particularly in the warmer months when North Carolina's insect population can be quite active. This feature ensures a comfortable and protected night's sleep, allowing you to fully relax and enjoy the sounds of nature without unwelcome interruptions. Furthermore, the commitment to "Leave No Trace" principles, underscored by the mandatory portable toilet policy, resonates deeply with environmentally conscious North Carolinians who prioritize the preservation of our natural heritage. By choosing to camp at the Hindsley Platform, locals are not just finding a place to stay; they are actively participating in a sustainable form of recreation that helps keep our rivers and creeks pristine. It’s an ideal way to explore the hidden gems of Eastern North Carolina, paddle through serene waters, and truly connect with the unparalleled beauty of our home state.