Ocoee River Corridor

Plan Your Trip

Discover the Ocoee River Corridor

Plan Your Ocoee River Rafting Trip

The Ocoee River is famous as the site of the 1996 Olympic Whitewater Kayak and Canoe Slalom events. It is also the only natural river Olympic course in the world! Come experience why the friendly, rollercoaster Ocoee River is known as America’s favorite whitewater. The river has two sections – Olympic Upper and Middle, both packed with Class III-IV rapids. No prior rafting experience is needed, and both sections are fully-guided adventures. The Ocoee River is open for rafting all summer long, and weekends in the spring and fall. See the Ocoee River release schedules.

There are plenty of other activities besides rafting! The Ocoee River Corridor is located at the edge of the Blue Ridge Mountains and deep in the Cherokee National Forest. Biking and hiking trails, world-class fly fishing on area rivers and streams, lake recreation, campgrounds, and leisurely float trips for ages 3+ are also available to first time travelers and avid outdoor enthusiasts. This remarkable area entices visitors with its awe-inspiring beauty, varied adventure experiences, and welcome affordability. Note that Ocoee River rafting never runs on Tuesdays or Wednesdays, so these are perfect days to plan to do other activities in the area.

Want more planning resources? Explore our Ocoee River Corridor Partners.

America's Favorite Whitewater is Calling You

Quick Facts

Where is the Ocoee River Corridor?

Outdoor Recreation Hub of Southeastern TN

The Ocoee River flows southeast to northwest from Copperhill, TN, to Benton, TN, and then merges into the Hiwassee River. It’s an easy half-day drive or less from these southeastern metro areas: Atlanta, Nashville, Birmingham, Asheville, Chattanooga, and Knoxville. The Ocoee River Corridor is an exceptional outdoor recreation area including the Ocoee River, Cherokee National Forest, Hiwassee River, and Chilhowee Recreation Area. Authentic, small Tennessee towns like Ducktown, Benton, Ocoee, Cleveland, Reliance, and Copperhill – and Copperhill’s sister town McCaysville in Georgia – offer visitors a welcome slower pace and time for deep connections.

Distances

Atlanta, GA
2 hrs - 115 miles
Knoxville, TN
2 hrs - 80 miles
Chattanooga, TN
1 hr - 45 miles
Asheville, NC
2.5 hrs - 170 miles
Nashville, TN
3.2 hrs - 175 miles
Birmingham, AL
3.5 hrs - 190 miles

Top 10 Reasons to Choose an Ocoee Adventure Getaway

Sample Ocoee River Getaways

Find inspiration and insider tips for where to go and what to do in our all new sample itineraries. Plan your adventure with confidence today! Choose from 1-Day, 2-Day, and 3-Day Getaways.

Stay and Recharge: Unique Ocoee Options

Places To Stay

The Ocoee River has many lodging options. Choose between rustic log cabins nestled in the Cherokee National Forest, campgrounds near the soothing sounds of the river, RV parks, and unique B&Bs, hotels, & motels.

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Food & Drink

Authentic, casual, and fresh describes your culinary journey through charming towns in the Ocoee River Corridor, where local eateries tantalize taste buds with their unique flavors.

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