Kure Beach, NC – Up With the Sun

We have visited this lovely area twice before.  During those visits, the campground was known as Fort Fisher Recreation Area, but the military recently changed the names of several installations, Fort Fisher among them.  Fortunately, only the name changed; everything else remained as we remembered.

Our most recent visit was in 2017, and we were on our first RV trip in an 18-foot Coleman trailer we named Bertha. During check-in, we were assigned a campsite next to the fire hall with water and electricity but no sewer connection.  I was disappointed at first with the assignment, but the large campground was packed, and this was the only site remaining.  It turned out to be a stroke of good luck. The site had a nice view of the Cape Fear River, a stone’s throw from the swimming pool and the recreation center with large showers. When I made a reservation for this trip, I asked again for the fire hall site—we got it.

I mentioned in our last post that the weather for our trip had started with sweltering temperatures.  Those hot temps followed us to Kure Beach.  I’m not going to dwell on the weather except to say that we were forced to stay out of the heat (or in the pool) during the middle of the day. Helen and I rose early to take beach walks and avoid the worst.

Near the beach access is a prominent feature along the shore known as the Coquina Outcrop.  At first glance, it appears as nothing more than an algae-covered rock. Still, it is a complete ecosystem with many microorganisms between the cracks and crevices, offering a buffet for gulls and other shorebirds. I always took my camera with me to capture the activity.

On a few mornings, I got up extra early to capture the sunrise over the surf. It was worth the effort, and the sunrise was spectacular on those days.

We would also use the early time to let Mortimer get his first taste of beach life.  He seemed little impressed.

During the day, we spent time in Dora with both air conditioners running.  Helen worked on her puzzle, and I read books.  We used the swimming pool every day that it was open.  Helen found some fresh watermelon that was so good even Mortimer liked it. He got more than his share.

One of Helen’s co-workers from Maryville College visited while we were there. Katherine lives in Wilmington now, and living on the coast appears to agree with her.  It was good to see her, and she looks great.

Late in the afternoon, when things cooled off a bit, I ventured out long enough to capture images of the sun setting over the Cape Fear River–Mother Nature cooperated.

Before we left Blakeslee, we took the time to thank the staff at the facility. They were accommodating and friendly.  The facility is well-maintained, the pool area is immaculate, and the showers are spotless.  We will be back.

Next up, Onslow Beach, NC…we’re Easin’ Along.