Check out my pad: After being closed for nearly 15 years, the Lake Julian Family Campground is open for business. The campground has 10 lakeside campsites, each featuring a tent pad, a picnic table, a grill and fire pit. RVs are permitted, but before you try to string those Chinese lanterns, know this: No electrical hookups are available. A bathhouse with showers and bathrooms is also provided. Sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis (no reservations) and cost $15 per day. For more information, call 684-0376.
Fish fear me, the state wants me: In order to lure newcomers to the sport of fishing, the N.C. Wildlife Resources Commission is waiving the state license requirement for one day. On July 4, from 12:01 a.m. to 11:59 p.m., anyone can fish any public, inland waterway in the state for free. No license, including a trout license, is required. The state even has a tackle loaner program if you haven’t got a rod of your own. For more information and restrictions, call the Division of Inland Fisheries at (919) 707-0220.
Come along, Opie: Remember the closing credits to The Andy Griffith Show? Age to age, one thing never changes: Kids love to fish. With that in mind, the Great Smokies Institute at Tremont is offering an adult-and-child fly-fishing “adventure” July 6-8. Instructors will teach parents and their kids (ages 12 and up) all about lines, casting, flies, basic equipment, care and safety on the stream, wading, and cold-water ecology. Equipment will be provided. Cost for the course is $315 for an adult and one child ($70 for each additional child). For more information, visit www.gsmit.org.
