One of North Carolina’s rarest ecological communities, is a unique mingling of coastal pond and southern swamp forest. A wide variety of plant and animal life offer an excellent natural experience.

Merchants Millpond State Park. Towering bald cypress with massive trunks, tupelo gum trees draped in luxuriant Spanish moss, and Resurrection ferns dominate the 760 acre millpond. At its upper end lies Lassiter Swamp, an ecological wonderland containing remnants of an ancient bald cypress swamp, and the eerie “enchanted forest” of tupelo gum whose trunks and branches have been distorted into fantastic shapes by mistletoe.

Location

The park is located in northeastern North Carolina near the community of Gatesville. It may be reached from US Hwy 158, NC Hwy 32 and NC Hwy 37. It is approximately 30 miles from the cities of Ahoskie, Elizabeth City, and Edenton, NC, and from Suffolk, VA.

Camping

A variety of settings offer camping experiences for groups large and small. Some may prefer the conveniences of drive-to sites, while those who like to rough it will relish the canoe and backpack camping areas. A modest fee is charged for all types of camping. Facilities may be limited in winter months.

Canoeing

Escape the hectic pace of life and find sanctuary in a canoe. Drift idly along the smooth, dark surface of the millpond and savor the many sights and sounds that come alive in the stillness of the forest. journey into remote and undisturbed Lassiter Swamp, a place that embodies the spirit of adventure.

Fishing

Cast your line from the bank or journey into the millpond to fish in a pastoral setting. Small fishing craft (with trolling motors only) may be launched at the boat ramp. Largemouth bass, bluegill, chain pickerel and black crappie are just waiting to bite the hook. The Wildlife Resources Commission (WRC) manages the fisheries of the millpond. All boating and fishing regulations of the WRC apply. Early-rising fishermen will appreciate the convenience of a campsite exclusively for the use of anglers with small boats. Located near the walk-in group sites, this campsite offers fishermen the opportunity to launch boats from a nearby area in the early hours before the park opens. Facilities include a fire circle, pit toilets and a small washhouse with cold showers. Sites are available on a first-come basis.

Picnicking – A. B. Coleman Picnic Area

The shade of large trees offers a place to picnic within view of the millpond. Located on Millpond Road, the picnic area has 28 tables and grills. Drinking water and restrooms are nearby. Picnic sites are available on a first-come basis, free of charge. There is a picnic shelter that can be reserved.

Hiking

Views of the “enchanted forest” and Lassiter Swamp await those who travel the park on foot. Ten miles of trails offer a place to stretch out muscles left still by hours spent crouched in “canoe-position.” Caution, Merchants Millpond is heavily infested with ticks during warm weather months. Insect repellent may help prevent a tick bite and the possibility of disease.

Birding

Over 200 species of birds have been recorded in the park, ranging from graceful egrets to turkeys and owls. Spring and fall bring migrations of swamp warblers, most notably throngs or parulas, prothonotaries and yellow-throated warblers. In winter, a variety of waterfowl stop by on their journey south. Lucky visitors may catch a glimpse of the beautiful hooded merganser, a small fish-eating duck whose males flaunt a magnificent black-bordered white crest. Pileated woodpeckers, barred owls, and red-shouldered hawks also enjoy the swamplands.

Nature Study

A variety of reptiles, amphibians, and mammals such as beaver, mink and river otter make their homes here. Other activities include hiking, photography, picnicking and nature study. Interpretive programs on the park’s cultural and natural history are conducted throughout the year. Contact the park office to schedule an exploration for your group or class.