Whitewater Rafting in Georgia

Whitewater Rafting Near Georgia

Situated near Atlanta and other nearby cities, Nantahala Outdoor Center provides whitewater rafting excursions. Since 1974, the Wild & Scenic Rivers Act has provided federal protection for the The Chattooga River, which forms part of the border between Georgia and South Carolina, thereby maintaining its rough river gorge for all time. On a trip from NOC, you may take in the unparalleled wilderness location, renowned whitewater, and stunning scenery!

Two thrilling Chattooga River tours are available from NOC, both of which leave from our outpost in Clayton, Georgia. Families and groups at all skill levels can enjoy the exciting Class II–III rapids in Section III. Expert NOC guides give swimming breaks and lunch by the river while they expertly maneuver your raft through thrilling drops and rapids. The Class IV Bull Sluice rapid is the journey’s spectacular finale, giving a lasting experience. Visit Section IV for the Southeast’s greatest whitewater experience. It is home to well-known rapids like Raven’s Chute Rapid, Seven-Foot Falls, and the fabled Five Falls. This third-half-a-mile stretch of five Class IV–V rapids promises an amazing experience.

Southern Living called rafting the Chattooga “The #1 Thing Every Southerner Ought to Do.”

Just a brief journey outside of Georgia, NOC’s 500-acre main campus on the Nantahala River near Bryson City awaits with rafting, aerial adventures, dining, shopping, and lodging. Additional nearby rivers include:

• French Broad, NC – Offering scenic beauty and enjoyable rapids, these trips are the perfect complement to any Asheville vacation.
• Ocoee River, TN – Experience fast-paced, splashy whitewater rafting adventures.
• Pigeon River, TN – Enjoy scenic mountain vistas and family-friendly rafting suitable for ages 3 and up, located outside Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.

For a local river excursion just north of Atlanta, join NOC on the Chattahoochee River for a tube float, or rent a raft, kayak, canoe, or paddleboard for your adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much is whitewater rafting in Georgia?
A: That depends on the trip section and day/time of year. NOC offers multiple weekday and weekend trips on both Section III and Section IV of the Chattooga. Section IV is a longer and more exciting river trip so it would be considered a premium experience. Check out our trip pages for more up to date information and pricing.

Q: What class rapids are on the Chattooga?
A: The Chattooga River offers two sections. Section III is ideal for beginners, groups or families with children eight years old and up with a variety of Class I, II and III rapids with the option of taking on the grand finale Bull Sluice. Chattooga Section IV is an exciting trip for any skill level, but a higher level of adventure, offering more technical whitewater including the infamous Five Falls, a 1/3 mile of Class IV-V rapids.

Q: What is the best time to go white water rafting in Georgia?
A: NOC offers trips on the Chattooga River from early Spring into the Fall, closing for winter. The summers offer warm weather and water, fully bloomed flora and fauna. Fall trips put the beautiful fall colors on display in this wild and scenic adventure.