Yadkin Riverkeeper has launched a new online tool that is designed to showcase unique experiences and river access points to encourage greater use of North Carolina’s longest and most important river.

The new online tool, created with a grant from the Chatham Foundation, maps locations of interest along the river basin. Yadkin Valley tourism alone brings in $240 million annually and supports 1,890 jobs as of 2011 figures.

There are more than 60 destination points from as far west as Blowing Rock and the start of the river at W. Kerr Scott Reservoir through the valley to the Pee Dee National Wildlife Refuge.

Travelers looking for the best points of interest will find some of the country’s most scenic mountain overlooks at Kerr Scott Lake and Morrow Mountain. The best campgrounds and canoe/boat rentals dot the valley. Bed and breakfast establishments, wineries and local restaurants also are featured.

“The Yadkin River is one of our state’s richest resources, but it’s also one of the most under-utilized recreational experiences,” said Dean Naujoks, the Yadkin Riverkeeper. “Every June, we host the Tour De Yadkin where we paddle all 185 miles to see its scenic beauty and educate people on the importance of preserving the unique resource. We realized that people need to know about the great experiences they can have along the river. We hope this new tool will bring more people out onto the water.”