Ocoee River Corridor
History of the Ocoee River
History of America's Favorite Whitewater
The Early History of the Ocoee River
Long before thrill-seekers and outdoor enthusiasts flocked to the Ocoee River, this pristine waterway significantly shaped the region’s history. The river was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, who recognized its abundant resources and bountiful wildlife. They revered the Ocoee as a sacred place, honoring its power and bounty through rituals and ceremonies. The name “Ocoee” comes from the Cherokee word “Uwagohi”, referring to the perennial bloom of Passiflora incarnata (also known as the Wild Apricot or Passion Flower).
1911
Eastern Tennessee Power Company began construction on Dam #1 (leading to Parksville (Ocoee) Lake as part of a hydroelectric project. This altered not only the landscape but also profoundly impacted the flow of water within the river itself. The historic wooden flume diverted the waters of the upper river into the elevated water path. This concentrated the water pressure for the hydroelectric powerhouses.
1913
Eastern Tennessee Power Company constructed Dam #2, which would later become the start of the Middle Ocoee rafting trip.
Photo Courtesy of Industry History
1942
Dam #3 construction is finished, which will become the location of the Upper Ocoee.
Photo Courtesy of Tennessee Valley Authority
The Birth of Ocoee River Whitewater Rafting
1976
The wooden flume was shut down for reconstruction after a rockslide damaged the flume, and the Ocoee River flowed. Rafters started showing up with army surplus rafts to take on the exhilarating rapids.
1977
First commercial rafting companies start operating on the Ocoee River
2025
In 2025, the park split into the Hiwassee Scenic River State Park and the Ocoee River State Park to provide more dedicated resources to each area.
