Ocoee River Rafting Season

The Ocoee River rafting season typically runs from March through October, with the best time to go being during the spring and fall when the water levels are higher and the weather is more moderate. However, rafting is possible year-round, depending on the weather conditions.

When to Go

The Ocoee River rafting season typically runs from March through October, with the best time to go being during the spring (March-May) and fall (September-October) when the water levels are higher and the weather is more moderate; During these months, you can expect warmer temperatures and less rainfall, making for a more enjoyable rafting experience.

However, rafting is possible year-round, depending on the weather conditions. In the summer (June-August), the water levels are typically lower, but the weather is warmer and sunnier. This can be a great time to go rafting if you’re looking for a more relaxed and scenic float. In the winter (November-February), the water levels are typically higher and the weather is colder. This can be a more challenging time to go rafting, but it can also be a more rewarding experience.

Here is a breakdown of what to expect during each season⁚

• Spring (March-May)⁚ Higher water levels, moderate temperatures, less rainfall
• Summer (June-August)⁚ Lower water levels, warmer temperatures, more sunshine
• Fall (September-October)⁚ Higher water levels, moderate temperatures, less rainfall
• Winter (November-February)⁚ Higher water levels, colder temperatures

Ultimately, the best time to go rafting on the Ocoee River depends on your preferences and what you’re looking for in a rafting experience. If you’re looking for a more challenging and adrenaline-pumping experience, then spring or fall is a good time to go. If you’re looking for a more relaxed and scenic float, then summer is a good time to go. And if you’re looking for a truly unique and unforgettable experience, then winter rafting is a great option.

What to Expect

When you go rafting on the Ocoee River, you can expect a thrilling and unforgettable experience. The river is known for its Class III and IV rapids, which provide a challenging and exciting ride. However, there are also calmer sections of the river where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.

The Ocoee River is also known for its beautiful scenery. You’ll raft through a gorge with towering cliffs and lush vegetation. You may even see some wildlife along the way, such as deer, turkeys, and eagles.

Here is a breakdown of what you can expect during your rafting trip⁚

• Check-in⁚ When you arrive at the rafting company, you will need to check in and sign a waiver. You will also be fitted for a life jacket and helmet.
• Safety briefing⁚ Before you get on the river, your guide will give you a safety briefing. This will cover the basics of rafting, such as how to paddle and how to stay safe in the water.
• The rafting trip⁚ The rafting trip typically lasts for 2-3 hours. During this time, you will raft through a variety of rapids and calm sections of the river. Your guide will help you navigate the rapids safely and will provide you with interesting information about the river and the surrounding area.
• The takeout⁚ Once you reach the end of the rafting trip, you will need to get out of the raft and walk back to the rafting company. This is a short walk, and you will have the opportunity to change into dry clothes before you leave.

Overall, you can expect a fun and exciting rafting experience on the Ocoee River. The river is challenging but manageable, and the scenery is beautiful. With a little bit of preparation, you can have a safe and enjoyable day on the river.

What to Bring

When you go rafting on the Ocoee River, it is important to bring the following items⁚

• Swimsuit or water-resistant clothing⁚ You will get wet while rafting, so it is important to wear clothing that you can swim in or that will dry quickly.
• Water shoes or sandals with a strap⁚ You will need to wear shoes that can get wet and that will stay on your feet. Avoid wearing flip-flops or other shoes that could easily come off.
• Sunscreen⁚ The sun can be strong on the river, so it is important to wear sunscreen to protect your skin.
• Sunglasses⁚ Sunglasses will help to protect your eyes from the sun and from the glare off the water.
• Hat⁚ A hat will help to protect your head from the sun and from the cold.
• Towel⁚ You will want to have a towel to dry off with after your rafting trip.
• Change of clothes⁚ It is a good idea to bring a change of clothes to wear after your rafting trip.
• Money⁚ You may want to bring some money to purchase snacks or souvenirs at the rafting company.

You may also want to consider bringing the following items⁚

• Waterproof camera⁚ If you want to take pictures of your rafting trip, be sure to bring a waterproof camera.
• GoPro⁚ If you want to capture POV footage of your rafting trip, be sure to bring a GoPro.
• Snacks⁚ You may want to bring some snacks to eat during your rafting trip.
• Water bottle⁚ You may want to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated during your rafting trip.

By bringing the appropriate items, you can help to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable rafting experience on the Ocoee River.

Where to Stay

There are a number of different places to stay near the Ocoee River, depending on your budget and preferences. Here are a few of the most popular options⁚

• Camping⁚ There are several campgrounds located near the Ocoee River, including the Ocoee Whitewater Center Campground and the Big Frog Mountain Campground. Camping is a great option for those who want to save money and be close to the river.
• Motels⁚ There are a number of motels located in the towns of Ducktown and Copperhill, which are both located near the Ocoee River. Motels are a good option for those who want a more comfortable place to stay.
• Cabins⁚ There are a number of cabins available for rent near the Ocoee River. Cabins are a good option for those who want a more private and secluded place to stay.
• Vacation rentals⁚ There are a number of vacation rentals available for rent near the Ocoee River. Vacation rentals are a good option for those who want a more spacious and home-like place to stay.

When choosing a place to stay, it is important to consider the following factors⁚

• Budget⁚ Camping is the most affordable option, while vacation rentals are the most expensive.
• Location⁚ Consider how close you want to be to the river and to other amenities.
• Amenities⁚ Some campgrounds and motels offer amenities such as swimming pools, hot tubs, and laundry facilities.
• Privacy⁚ Cabins and vacation rentals offer more privacy than campgrounds and motels.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best place to stay for your Ocoee River rafting trip.

What to Do

In addition to rafting, there are a number of other activities you can enjoy in the Ocoee River area, including⁚

• Hiking⁚ There are several hiking trails located near the Ocoee River, including the Benton MacKaye Trail and the Ocoee River Trail. Hiking is a great way to explore the area’s natural beauty.
• Fishing⁚ The Ocoee River is home to a variety of fish, including trout, bass, and catfish. Fishing is a great way to relax and enjoy the scenery.
• Swimming⁚ There are several swimming holes located along the Ocoee River. Swimming is a great way to cool off on a hot day.
• Picnicking⁚ There are several picnic areas located near the Ocoee River. Picnicking is a great way to enjoy a meal outdoors.
• Camping⁚ There are several campgrounds located near the Ocoee River. Camping is a great way to spend a night under the stars.

No matter what your interests are, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in the Ocoee River area. So come on down and experience all that this beautiful region has to offer!