A beautiful, shallow pond surrounded by deep woods and featuring bald cypress trees and Spanish moss. There are canoe trails on the pond, hiking trails on the land and if you're brave enough, an adjacent swamp to explore. We will take a 1.25 mile canoe trail to a group camping site with pit toilet and fire ring ONLY. All food, water etc. must be brought in and taken back out.

Depart:7:00 am, Saturday, March 9, 2002, Chapel of the Cross

Arrive:Approximately 11:00. Load canoes and eat bag lunch. Canoe to campsite and set up camp.

Leave:Depart campsite Sunday, 11:00 am. Leave park between 1 and 2 pm, arriving back at church between 5 and 6 pm.

Canoes pack better with duffle type, water proofed bags that can be manipulated, as opposed to hard sided bags or backpacks with external frames. Usual camping equipment plus 1 gallon of water per person. There is no swimming in the pond, but extra clothes/shoes in case you get wet would be a good idea. Fishing is allowed under NC Fish and Wildlife rules and regulations (I am not a fisherman but I think that means you need to buy a license). Binoculars for wildlife viewing. Large plastic bags to cover everything.

Bag lunch for Saturday. Patrols should plan meals for Sat. dinner, Sunday breakfast and a parking lot lunch on Sunday before leaving for home.

Messages may be left at 967-8963. The estimated time for return will be available at 967-8963. Merchants Millpond State Park can be reached at 252-357-1191.

North on 15-501 to I-85 N. Exit I-85 at exit #220. Follow 158 through Roanoke Rapids and across I-95 to the park. Turn right on Millpond Rd. (SR 1403) and left into the park. If you reach the park entrance on 158, turn around and look for Millpond Rd on the left. There is a gas/convenience store at this intersection.