South Fork River - CRF Boathouse
Gastonia, North Carolina, United States

The Boathouse (located at 115 Willow Dr, McAdenville, NC) is the center for authentic outdoor experiences on the banks of the South Fork River, the largest tributary of the Catawba River. It serves as a place for Catawba Riverkeeper to engage visitors and residents alike with their most precious natural resource and educate them on ways they can help protect it.
Kayak Rentals & Guided Tours
Rent a kayak (single or tandem), canoe, or standup paddleboard for a flatwater experience at The Boathouse. You can paddle about a mile upstream before heading back to The Boathouse where we hope you’ll stick around for a snack and a drink. Adventure seeks are invited to sign up for a guided tour of the South Fork that leads you through Class I and Class II whitewater! You won’t feel like you’re 25 minutes from Uptown Charlotte on this beautiful stretch of river.
Eat & Drink
Whether you’ve just gotten off the water, the trail, or are here for a special event, you’re welcome to stop in for a local craft beer, seltzer, or soft drink. Snacks are available for sale and food trucks are on site for special events. All draft beer on tap is made locally in the Catawba River Basin.
Shop
Check out our outdoor apparel and gear + art and handmade goods by local artisans. Our outfitter store is also a great place to find those last minute essentials like sunscreen and dry bags.
The McAdenville boat launch is located at 115 Willow Dr, McAdenville, NC.
The description above was copied from or heavily based on Swim Guide, with permission.
More Information
- Swim Guide - Weather and water quality for South Fork River - CRF Boathouse and 8,000 other beaches.