Guide- Sally Siko

Birdwatchers and photographers of all skill levels are encouraged to join me as we spot the interesting birds over the course of this 2-hour walking trip where we will explore the wooded trails, fields, and shorelines of Carvers Creek State Park in Spring Lake, NC

In the spring and summer, we’ll watching for various species of Warblers, Hawks, Flycatchers, Phoebes, Vireos, Loggerhead Shrikes, Towhees, Great Blue Herons, Green Herons, Summer Tanagers, Sparrows, Indigo Buntings, Grosbeaks, Flycatchers, Bluebirds and Nuthatches.

During the autumn and winter months, we’ll be on the lookout for all kinds of cold weather species such as Warblers, Hawks, Bluebirds, Sparrows, Brown Thrashers, Wrens, Towhees, Herons, Ducks, and Woodpeckers.

Viewing Recommendations: A zoom/telephoto lens (200 mm or more), spotting scope, or binoculars are recommended for this trip.

Physical Difficulty: easy to moderate (walking on wooded paths) 1 – 2 miles possible)

Lodging: NOT included, there are multiple lodging accommodations available nearby in Spring Lake and Fayetteville NC.

Transportation: NOT included, during duration of the tour.

BOOK YOUR SELECTED TOUR BY CLICKING ON THE TRIP DATE SHOWN IN THE GREEN BLOCK ON THE CALENDAR BELOW

Don’t see a location or date you’re interested in?

 Call or text me (Sally Siko) to set up a tour that suits your needs best.

(919) 449-7331

 sallysiko@birdwatchingnc.com

Travel Guide: Carvers Creek State Park, North Carolina

Welcome to Carvers Creek State Park, a pristine natural oasis located in Cumberland County, North Carolina. Spanning over 4,000 acres of woodlands, wetlands, and historic sites, Carvers Creek State Park offers visitors the opportunity to explore diverse ecosystems, learn about local history, and enjoy outdoor recreational activities in a serene setting. Whether you’re hiking, birdwatching, or exploring the remains of an early 20th-century estate, Carvers Creek State Park has something for everyone to enjoy.

**Things to Do:**

1. **Hiking:** Explore the park’s network of scenic hiking trails, which wind through pine forests, along the shores of the park’s namesake creek, and past historic landmarks. Keep an eye out for native wildlife, including deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species.

2. **Canoeing and Kayaking:** Paddle along the calm waters of Carvers Creek and Lake Phelps on a canoeing or kayaking adventure. Enjoy the tranquility of the waterways and take in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape.

3. **Fishing:** Cast your line into Carvers Creek or Lake Phelps and try your luck at catching bass, bream, and other freshwater fish. Fishing is permitted in designated areas of the park with a valid North Carolina fishing license.

4. **Picnicking:** Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a leisurely meal at one of the park’s picnic areas. Relax in the shade of towering pine trees, listen to the sounds of nature, and soak in the peaceful ambiance of Carvers Creek State Park.

**Places to See:**

1. **Long Valley Farm:** Explore the historic Long Valley Farm, once the winter estate of James Stillman Rockefeller, a prominent financier and conservationist. Take a guided tour of the estate’s restored buildings, including the Rockefeller House and Dairy Barn, and learn about the property’s rich history and cultural significance.

2. **Millpond:** Visit the park’s scenic millpond, a picturesque body of water surrounded by cypress trees and wetland vegetation. Keep an eye out for turtles, frogs, and other aquatic wildlife as you stroll along the pond’s edge.

**Hotels to Stay In:**

While there are no hotels located within Carvers Creek State Park, visitors can find accommodations in nearby Fayetteville or Spring Lake. Here are a few options:

1. **Hampton Inn Spring Lake-Ft. Bragg:** Enjoy comfortable rooms, complimentary breakfast, and convenient access to Carvers Creek State Park at this well-appointed hotel located just a short drive away.

2. **Hilton Garden Inn Fayetteville/Fort Bragg:** Stay in modern accommodations with upscale amenities, including a fitness center, outdoor pool, and on-site dining options. This hotel offers easy access to Fort Bragg and other area attractions.

3. **Holiday Inn Express Fayetteville-Fort Bragg:** Relax in spacious rooms equipped with plush bedding, flat-screen TVs, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a fitness center, outdoor pool, and complimentary breakfast buffet.

**Restaurants to Eat At:**

1. **Luigi’s Italian Restaurant:** Savor authentic Italian cuisine at Luigi’s Italian Restaurant, offering a menu of pasta dishes, pizzas, and seafood specialties. Don’t miss the house-made marinara sauce and garlic knots for a delicious dining experience.

2. **Huske Hardware House Restaurant & Brewery:** Dine in a historic setting at Huske Hardware House Restaurant & Brewery, located in a restored hardware store dating back to 1903. Enjoy classic American fare, craft beers, and live music in this unique downtown Fayetteville establishment.

3. **Circa 1800:** Indulge in upscale Southern cuisine at Circa 1800, featuring locally sourced ingredients and creative dishes inspired by regional flavors. Enjoy farm-to-table dining in a charming historic building in downtown Fayetteville.

**Conclusion:**

Carvers Creek State Park offers visitors a peaceful retreat in the heart of North Carolina’s scenic countryside. Whether you’re hiking through pine forests, exploring historic landmarks, or paddling along tranquil waterways, this hidden gem provides a serene escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Plan your visit today and discover the natural beauty and rich history of Carvers Creek State Park in Cumberland County, North Carolina.

NEED A LONG LENS OR CAMERA FOR THE TRIP?

A set of binoculars or camera lens of at 200mm or more is recommended for each guest during my birding tours. If you don’t own a zoom lens, you can rent one at Lensrentals for your Canon, Nikon or Sony camera below. Renting is surprisingly affordable and easy and they’ll ship the lens to your door within a couple of days!

Use code BWNC15 at checkout to save 15% on your camera or lens rental when visiting the Lensrentals website below!