.png?crop=yes&k=c&w=1440&h=450&itok=1l1y6431)
When it comes to planning a family vacation, finding a something-for-everyone destination can seem like a high bar. But the Ocoee River Corridor clears it – and makes a splash doing it.
This Southeast Tennessee area is best known for its world-class Ocoee River whitewater rafting, drawing thrill-seekers and fun hogs from across the country. But the fun doesn’t stop at the river’s edge – with hiking, camping and scenic drives, it’s an outdoor haven for hard-core adventurers, families and everyone in between. Thanks to expert outfitters, planning the perfect nature-filled fun vacation is as easy as packing your bags.
Less than four hours from Birmingham, Nashville, Asheville, Knoxville and Chattanooga, the Ocoee River Corridor is the perfect weekend escape for anyone ready to raft, roam and relax in one of Tennessee’s most exciting natural playgrounds.
All of this comes together to make an exciting weekend getaway that is easy to reach, convenient, affordable and customizable to your group. Let’s plan your trip on America’s Best Whitewater – the Ocoee River!
The River
Make a Splash
The primary reason people come to the region is for the whitewater thrills on Class III and Class IV rapids of the Ocoee River. People enjoy over 10 miles of rafting on the Olympic Upper and Middle Ocoee River sections.
Why is the Ocoee So Popular for Whitewater Rafting?
While locals have long known and loved their little piece of paradise, when the Ocoee River became the 1996 Olympic Site for Kayak and Canoe Slalom events, the only natural river that has been used in Olympic whitewater events, the secret was out. People all over the world saw the beauty of these waters.
The Ocoee is sometimes called “America’s Favorite Whitewater,” an honorific bestowed because of its popularity as a as a world-class, friendly white water rafting river and some of the many unusual features of this natural resource. The river flow is natural and managed, meaning the Tennessee Valley Authority releases water on a schedule that is available to the public.
The Ocoee River is fed by dam releases from the top of the lake, making for much warmer water temperatures than other mountain rivers. In addition, the river runs through wide open areas with tons of sunshine, a boon to rafters. In the summer, a swim will be refreshing, but you won’t need a wet suit to take a dip (whether that’s an intentional swim or an accidental one).
How Can You Raft The Ocoee River?
All commercial trips are led by expert guides from the river’s many outfitters – people who know its every rapid and calm stretch by heart. That makes for a fun and enjoyable experience whether it’s your first or hundredth time whitewater rafting.
The river is divided into two sections: the Upper (where the Olympic events took place) and the Middle (the most popular whitewater in the region). Both sections are open to first-time rafters. Half-day trips on either section make a great introduction, while full-day trips on the combined Upper and Middle sections satisfy experienced paddlers and adventure enthusiasts alike.
Who Can Raft The Ocoee?
Children must be ages 12 and older to join an outfitter on an Ocoee River rafting trip, but there are other ways for younger kids to get in on the fun. The calmer Lower Ocoee and nearby Hiwassee have easier sections to raft or float, and those are open to younger children. Lake Ocoee, also known as Parksville Lake, between the Middle Ocoee and the Lower Ocoee River sections, is a wonderful lake for paddleboarding, sit-on-top kayaking, and offers delightful swimming and picnic areas at several lakeside locations.
THE ACTIVITIES
Find Adventure
.jpg?crop=yes&k=c&w=610&h=523&itok=PkS7qFUi)
The Ocoee River Corridor is inside the Cherokee National Forest, giving visitors access to pristine outdoor recreation, and is managed by the newly formed Ocoee River State Park (formerly combined Hiwasee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park).
The Ocoee River State Park is a great addition to any trip to the corridor, whether you plan to raft or not. The Ocoee River State Park is a great base camp for exploring the area. There are many lodging and campground options in the area, including Chilhowie Recreation Area, Thunder Rock campground on the Ocoee River, and area camping and lodging with Ocoee outfitters and other local provider.
Hiking and Biking
There are numerous area trails for hiking and biking, including the Tanasi Trail System and the John Muir trail, which winds along the river banks along the gorge, the Bartram Trail and Appalachian Trail, which also cross the Ocoee River. You can even plan a Ranger-guided hike full of lessons on the local flora and fauna.
Fishing and Floating
Enjoy a calmer river experience with some of the best fishing in the area with lots of opportunity to spot wildlife. You may even see a bald eagle flying overhead as you cast your line.
Young kids and anyone looking for a refreshing dip will also love a lazy river float.
Fun on the Water
The nearby Parksville Lake is the perfect spot for kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, boating and enjoying a sunny lakeside picnic.
On weekdays when the river is not releasing, visitors can enjoy picnicking and swimming in the Upper Ocoee’s swimming holes.
.jpg?crop=yes&k=c&w=610&h=523&itok=ZZYUNFkX)
Plan Your Trip
Take in Nature – Your Ocoee Way
No matter what kind of outdoor experiences you crave, you can find them here! From exciting ziplining courses to stargazing with dark skies, there is so much to experience in the Ocoee River Corridor.
When Should You Visit The Ocoee River?
The corridor is most popular in the summer, when the river is running at full schedule for rafting. However, spring and fall are also great times to visit. Rafting runs on the weekends during these seasons, and the spring wildflowers and fall colors are beautiful additions to your experience. How Can I Plan My Trip to the Ocoee?
.jpg?crop=yes&k=c&w=610&h=523&itok=YQerxvbt)
How Can I Plan My Trip to the Ocoee?
The Ocoee River Corridor website has ready-made itineraries to help you plan your trip! Whether you’re visiting with family, seeking adventure and have just one day – or a full three – to explore, these itineraries will help you make the most of your Ocoee River getaway.
The Ocoee River outfitters are another great resource, offering expert knowledge of the area along with guided rafting trips, other outdoor adventures, and lodging. You can browse their offerings online before you go.
And don’t forget the Ocoee River State Park rangers – they’re an exceptional source of local insight and tips for making the most of your visit.
What are you waiting for? Plan your trip to the Ocoee River, America’s Favorite Whitewater, at theocoeeriver.com.
