Boaters can definitely have a fun time in and around Wilson, and even more opportunities to get wet are a short drive away.

Buckhorn Lake is Wilson’s gem, more than 2,100 acres of water and land. The reservoir holds more than 7 billion gallons of water. It is open to power boats, personal watercraft, water skis, canoes and kayaks. The lake’s docks are open to fishermen seeking largemouth and smallmouth bass, crappie, walleye and more.

• Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset
• GPS Directions: 8177 Rock Ridge School Road, Sims
• Ramp Fees: $5 Wilson resident; $10 non-resident

Lake Wilson is a great spot for kayakers, canoers and windsurfers, as well as small powerboats. The lake is around 90 acres so it’s a wonderful space to spend a few hours. Boaters can use a ramp, but there is also a canoe and kayak launch. The lake is surrounded by a 18-hole disc golf course, playground equipment, and a 2-mile walking trail that encircles the lake.

• Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset
• GPS Directions: 4621 Lake Wilson Road N
• Ramp Fees: None

Wiggins Mill Reservoir is a wonderland for small boats to explore. It has 285 acres of water, much of it in alcoves that can be explored by kayaks, canoes or boats powered by electric motors. There are also areas for ramp or shore fishing.

• Hours: Open daily, sunrise to sunset
• GPS Directions: 3010 U.S. Highway 301 S
• Ramp Fees: None

People looking for more adventures on the water nearby can plan a trip on the nearby Tar or Neuse rivers. Visit the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission for more ramp sites.

Kayaks, Boating and Fishing from City of Wilson, NC on Vimeo.