Swift Island

Swift Island provides convenient access to Lake Tillery, a major impoundment on the Pee Dee River in the Piedmont region near Mount Gilead. This well-maintained facility features a four-lane concrete boat ramp with two docks and ample paved parking for 30+ vehicles, making it suitable for kayaks, canoes, and larger motorboats. Restrooms and a picnic shelter are available on-site, and the location at the convergence of Highway 27 and Highway 73 makes it easy to find and access.

Lake Tillery offers a calm, reservoir environment ideal for paddlers of varying skill levels. The Pee Dee River system that feeds the lake is a major waterway draining over 7,300 square miles, so expect typical reservoir conditions with variable water levels depending on dam operations. The facility's combination of good infrastructure and nearby amenities—including multiple campgrounds within 10 miles in the Uwharrie National Forest area—makes Swift Island a solid base for day trips or extended paddling adventures in central North Carolina.

The off-highway vehicle (OHV) trail system in the Uwharrie offers a variety of topography and scenery. All trails are designated for all off-highway vehicles and marked with orange diamonds. Stay on the designated trail system to help prevent soil erosion and creek sedimentation, which occur as a result of illegal trail use. FS roads cannot be used as trail connectors, but all vehicles operating...

The off-highway vehicle (OHV) trail system in the Uwharrie offers a variety of topography and scenery. All trails are designated for all off-highway vehicles and marked with orange diamonds. Stay on the designated trail system to help prevent soil erosion and creek sedimentation, which occur as a result of illegal trail use. FS roads cannot be used as trail connectors, but all vehicles operating on the road system must be "street legal" meaning that the vehicles are fully licensed, inspected and registered.  Persons violating these regulations will be fined according to the law. NCDOT approved helmets and eye protection are required. The trail system is subject to a seasonal closure during the winter months (from Dec. 15 - April 1) in order to prevent unacceptable soil erosion and stream sedimentation.  Trail passes are also required for all vehicles on the OHV trails.Dispersed camping is allowed around this area. Also RV's and campers are allowed in the area, there are no hook ups or water available on site, but there is a vault toilet available.

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