The Yadkin River begins in western North Carolina near Blowing Rock, and it flows in a southeasterly direction towards South Carolina. After the Yadkin is joined by the Uwharrie River, it becomes the Pee Dee River.
The Yadkin was an important avenue of commerce for both Indians and white settlers during the early 18th century. Daniel Boone hunted along its upper reaches, and Tom Dooley was buried near the river after his notorious hanging in 1868.
Several dams cross the Yadkin as it flows through North Carolina. These structures are used for flood control, and some dams generate electrical power. The dams also create Badin Lake, High Rock Lake and the W. Kerr Scott Reservoir. Fishing enthusiasts come to these areas to try and catch sunfish, catfish, largemouth bass and white bass.
Much of the Yadkin flows quietly through moderate terrain, though a few stretches of whitewater are found at the western end of the river. These places provide recreational opportunities for kayakers, canoeists and whitewater rafters. Overnight campers have several opportunities to pitch a tent alongside the Yadkin. Canoeists can camp along the river in two sections of Pilot Mountain State Park, while improved campsites can be found on Badin Lake in the Uwharrie National Forest and Morrow Mountain State Park.
