Wilmington/Saturday night

Date: Sep 13, 2005

Wilmington/Saturday night

Date: Sep 14, 2005

I'm in the same boat as you and I'm sure others are as well. Last year Bubba offered an "optional" stayover in Oriental, but that's not to be this year.

I'm holding a bus ticket that I'd like to sell so I can take advantage of a ride that's been offered me back to Asheville. If I end up staying Saturday night, it may be "under the stars" ...a term I haven't used since I was a Boy Scout! <g>

Tad-

Brevard, NC

Date: Sep 15, 2005

Tad,

Where is camping available?

Marcia

Date: Sep 15, 2005

The itinerary doesn't say, specifically:
"Our ride will conclude at the Wilmington Battleship North Carolina. You can stroll along the decks of the USS North Carolina, a permanently moored World War II Battleship on the Cape Fear River. Our traditional End-of-the-Ride Party will take place at the Battleship site, and is sure to be a memorable moment for all. Outdoor camping is available on Saturday night in Wilmington."

But I think I remember a couple of past CNC riders and one of the organizers saying at our bike club meeting a couple of months ago that we'll be camping near the battleship (depending on what Ophelia leaves behind, I presume).

Date: Sep 15, 2005

Marcia,

The CNC folks posted this info a few days back on the msg board:

"Unfortunately, the Battleship will not allow us to camp the Friday before the ride (9/30). Below is a list of campgrounds, if you are interested.

Please note that it’s at least a 20-30 minute drive to the New Hanover Parking Deck:

Carolina Beach State Park: 910-458-8206 or http://ils.unc.edu/parkproject/visit/cabe/do.html#c

Wilmington KOA Kampground: www.wilmingtonkoa.com

Carolina Beach Family Campground: www.carolinabeachfamilycamprgound.com

Fort Fisher Air Force Recreation Area (please note that this campground is available only to Dept of Defense employees): www.ftfishermilrec.com

If you would rather stay in a hotel we have a list posted on our website. "

There are some B&B's across the river from the battleship, but it's perhaps 3 or 4 mi to the less expensive motels along the US highway towards Wrightsville Beach. Not sure how to get bike nd gear there unless you have a SAG or get a taxi.

Good luck.

Jack

Date: Sep 15, 2005

That was in reference to the Friday -before- the ride (9/30). Do you know if that also applies to Saturday night -after- the ride (10/8)?

Date: Sep 16, 2005

Is CNC going to provide a group camping spot next to the battleship for Sat. night Oct. 8 after the ride, or do we have to find a camping ground on our own?

Date: Sep 19, 2005

This is a reply to a question posted on June 13th, it says campiing will be allowed on Saturday nite after the ride at Battleship North Carolina Park:

RE: Oct 9th Bus Schedule

For the last couple of years, the long bus ride from finish, back to start, has been on the morning following the end of CNC. Camping is allowed at the end-of-ride location. (IN this case, that is at the Battleship North Carolina Park which is REALLY nice with deep grass--at least it had beautiful grass and a beautiful over-water view a couple years ago.) No food, after the end-of-ride meal is provided, so you are on your own for any dinner you want, and breakfast Sunday morning. (There may be some apples and bananas left for the evening at camp but no guarantee.) In the past, the bus left around 9 AM Sunday but that could change. (You will get plenty of notice.)

As far as arrival back in Asheville, I am less certain. The trip is about 425 Interstate miles if they follow Hwy 40. Depending on the bus company used, and the driver, there MAY be an hour meal stop, or may be just a couple of quick snack and bathroom stops. (May want to plan some snacks for the bus just to be prepared.)

These are all guesses based on history so don't hold me too tightly to them. (-:

Date: Sep 22, 2005

I live in wilm and will do the last 2 days of the ride. Maybe I can help with somewhere to stay on Sat night.