***This is a review STRICTLY for the 2023 Season*** PLEASE read - wish we knew what it was going to be like. This is NOT a typical year here and come prepared!!!
RIVER CONDITIONS (July 21-23):
This is my 5th year here. The first three were typical of one another. While last year was bone-dry and the river was barely floatable, this years rain has brought a totally overly flooded river. The waters are much deeper than you can stand, the current is a lot stronger than a typical person could swim against, and the water feels much colder than typical.
CAMP EXPERIENCE:
We were suppose to be at Bottom of the Island/The Cove. Due to flooding we could not access this area. Upon arrival they notified us and told us we would be moved to “Wilson 1” which was more than enough room for us all. I appreciate that they relocated us and although it was not where we wanted to be, it was nice to not be turned away.
DO NOT UNDERESTIMATE THE LEVEL OF MOSQUITOES!!!! I wouldn’t wish this upon my worst enemy. It got so bad it made it impossible to even cook and eat meals. You could not sit still without being swarmed in your ears, eyes, face, all over. BRING long garments. No amount of tiki torches, fire, or spray can keep this many away. Walking to tube you’d be chased by easily 30 looking over your shoulder. The only time it was semi manageable was past 9pm with a HUGE fire.
COME PREPARED IF YOU DARE TO GO!!!
GOUND CONDITIONS:
Beach 2 was flooded before we arrived, and recently receded slightly but still half covered. Mid Beach is itself a river, making any campsites between 1 & 2 in the woods inaccessible unless by by boat. There is a pond of water in the middle of Beach 2. Beach 1 looked ok, but smaller. Most if not all side beaches past 2 are underwater.
This is an odd year for sure. This is NOT typical of Fiddlehead. If you still decide to go this year PLEASE go prepared for the mosquitos. Any exposed skin will be attacked at any and all times.