Ocoee River FAQ

Whitewater rafting enthusiasts will be thrilled to discover the exhilarating rapids that grace the stunning Ocoee River. Nestled in southeastern Tennessee, this iconic river boasts some of the most renowned and thrilling whitewater rapids in the United States. The Ocoee River Corridor has become a mecca for adventure seekers seeking an adrenaline-pumping experience amidst breathtaking natural beauty.

The Ocoee River offers two separate sections for whitewater rafting: the Upper Ocoee and Middle Ocoee, each presenting their own unique challenges and thrills. The Upper Ocoee is famous as the site of the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Whitewater Canoe & Kayak Slalom events. It's the only natural river in the world that has hosted the Olympic whitewater races! 

The Middle Ocoee section has equally exciting Class III - IV rapids with favorites like "Table Saw", "Diamond Splitter," "Double Trouble", and "Hell's Hole." This stretch guarantees an adrenaline rush with a rollercoaster of exciting, almost non-stop rapids.

Whether you are an experienced rafter or new to this heart-racing sport, embarking on a whitewater rafting journey down the thrilling Ocoee River promises an unforgettable adventure packed with excitement and natural wonders at every twist and turn of its roaring waters.

No experience is needed to raft the Ocoee River, as all trips are fully guided with a trained guide. Only ages 12 and up can raft the Upper and Middle Ocoee River sections. Younger kids can float the Lower Ocoee River, with its class 1-2 rapids. 

The Ocoee River has Class III - IV rapids on the Upper Ocoee and the Middle Ocoee River sections. This is the white water rafting trip sections, and has an age limit 12+ years old to participate in these trips. The Lower Ocoee River section is Class 1 and 2, and welcomes younger kids to do guided float trips on this section with their families. 

The Ocoee River is "open" for white water rafting and paddling based on TVA water release schedules. The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) controls three dams that release water into the 3 sections of the Ocoee River that are available for paddlesports.  These three sections are the Middle Ocoee, Upper Ocoee, and Lower Ocoee.

The Middle Ocoee River: has releases 5 days a week from Memorial Day through Labor Day. The river does NOT run on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. It runs on weekends April-May, and September-October. See the Middle Ocoee Release Schedule.

The Upper Ocoee River: has limited releases on weekends only, May through Labor Day. Both Upper Ocoee only and Full Combo (Upper plus Middle) Ocoee Rafting trips are only available on the weekends. See the Upper Ocoee Release Schedule.

Lower Ocoee River: runs daily and is calmer moving water for float trips.

Note that the TVA Release Schedules can change without notice due to unanticipated weather changes or power system requirements.

Yes! To whitewater raft on the Upper or Middle Ocoee River sections, you must be age 12 or older. There is no maximum age for white water rafting on the Ocoee River, and we know whitewater kayakers who are paddling with style into their 80s! For more specific questions, be sure to check with your rafting outfitter.

Yes! Lots of us raft and paddle with style, grace AND glasses! Just make sure you have an eyeglasses retainer strap before you get on the river. It will keep your glasses on you if you get splashed with big waves or take a swim. Outfitters all sell them at their outposts if you forget one or don’t have one. Chums and Croakies are popular brands and very inexpensive insurance to protect your glasses!

Yes, many paddlers and rafting guests wear contacts on the river people and have no problems at all. This is because your natural reaction when you get splashed or go for a swim is to close your eyes upon impact with the water. So, most of us don’t need to worry about losing a contact in regular circumstances.  If you are concerned about possibly losing a contact and need them to see well enough to raft, then wear your glasses instead and make sure you have an eyeglasses retainer strap!

Summer rafting requires no special paddling clothing. Wear shorts and a top that are ideally quick dry (you will get splashed!).  Footwear is required and must have straps to stay on your feet. Examples are river sandals, water shoes or sneakers you don't mind getting wet. Flip flops and crocs are not allowed. Most outfitters sell water shoes at their outposts if you forget yours or don't have any. Remember your sunscreen! Additionally, be sure to bring a complete change of clothes, shoes and a towel for changing into dry clothes after your trip.

Spring and fall rafting can have cooler weather, and you'll want to have an extra layer handy. Outfitters often rent wetsuits, splash jackets and neoprene booties for rafting guests.  In general, wear quick drying tops and bottoms, and add a wool or synthetic long sleeved top or bottom.  Avoid cotton clothing as it will stay wet and cold on the river. As a majority of heat loss comes through the head, if its really cool or you know you get cold easily, bring or wear a wool cap to stay warm. Additionally, wool socks work great under river sandals or sneakers if you don’t have neoprene booties.