Since Florida is the flattest state in the nation, whitewater rafting is obviously not one of its major attractions. However, just because whitewater rafting in Florida is scarce, that doesn’t mean there isn’t good whitewater rafting near Florida. Just a few hours north of the border, Floridians can raft on Tennessee’s famous Ocoee River, the most popular rafting destination in the entire country.
Read on to find out why so many rafters choose the Ocoee River, the many rafting deals offered and the incredible array of other activities you can enjoy during your stay.
Reasons to Choose the Ocoee for Group Rafting Trips Near Florida
One of the reasons Florida residents love the Ocoee is its proximity, being only a six-hour drive from Tallahassee, a seven-hour drive from Jacksonville and an eight-hour drive from Orlando. But this river attracts Florida residents for many other reasons as well, including the following.
1. Breathtaking Scenery
Whitewater rafting on the Ocoee doesn’t only offer excitement — it also offers stunning natural beauty and landscapes very different from those found in Florida. While on the river, you’ll pass through the Cherokee National Forest, where you can admire the lush canopy and majestic peaks in the distance.
2. A River Fit for Olympians
We mean this literally, as the Ocoee River was the site of the whitewater, canoe and kayak competitions for the 1996 Olympic Games. Typically, the Olympic Games have to create a purpose-built area for these types of contests, but the Ocoee River was so perfect for these sports that it is the only natural river to ever host Olympic kayak and canoe events.
3. No Experience Necessary
If you live in Florida, there’s a good chance you’ve never been whitewater rafting before, and you may wonder whether you can handle a river that once played a role in the Olympic Games. However, the Ocoee has sections that range from Class I — easy — to IV — highly challenging — so whether you’re a first-timer or a longtime rafting fanatic, there is a section of the Ocoee that’s perfect for your skill level. The only requirement for the best Florida river rafting experience is that you’re at least 12 years old.
4. Reliable Water Flow
Many rivers around the world, including ones ideal for whitewater rafting, run dry during droughts or less rainy seasons. However, with the Ocoee, this is never a concern — in 1983, the U.S. government agreed to release water from the dams along the Ocoee for the sake of whitewater recreation on the river.
That means you can always rely on the middle section of the Ocoee for the more challenging Class III and IV rapids and the Upper Ocoee for over 20 Class IV rapids. During the summer, the dam releases 1,250 cubic feet of water per second, which makes for a thrilling rafting experience.
5. Popularity
The Ocoee doesn’t just attract visitors from Florida, but from all over. The Ocoee’s middle section draws over a quarter of a million visitors every year. Come and see for yourself why so many rafters choose the Ocoee for their rafting adventure.
6. Affordability
Unlike many other top tourist destinations, you won’t have to break the bank for a trip on the Ocoee. Raft1 offers affordable Florida group rafting trip costs, including ones for corporate teambuilding, family vacations and solo adventures.
7. Access to Amenities
Because the Ocoee attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year, there are many amenities available in the area, all of which exist without compromising the scenic beauty. Whether it’s a hotel, restaurant, campground, or another type of lodging, you can easily find anything you need.
8. Proximity to Other Fun Activities
The Ocoee River and surrounding Cherokee National Forest offer a variety of outdoor adventures, some of which you cannot experience in Florida.
- Canoeing, kayaking and tubing: Gentler sections of the Ocoee are great for canoeing, kayaking, boating and other activities. When the Ocoee crosses over into nearby Georgia, where it changes names to the Toccoa River, the waters are perfect for tubing.
- Hiking: The Appalachians have no shortage of natural beauty, and there are countless hiking trails you can take to experience its beauty up close.
- Mountain biking: Raft1 offers visitors the opportunity to go mountain biking on the hundreds of miles of trails in the nearby national forest.
- Zip line canopy tours: If you’d like to enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, you can join one of Raft1’s zip line canopy tours, which feature zip lines, suspension bridges, treetop sky towers and a cargo net at the peak of Southern Pine Forest.
- Horseback riding: Explore the beautiful Tennessee and Georgia mountains in an equestrian fashion by taking one of Raft1’s horseback riding adventures.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the country’s most visited national park, and its eastern entrance is just a two-hour drive from the Ocoee.
Although beautiful natural scenery surrounds the Ocoee River, that doesn’t mean it’s in the middle of nowhere. It’s just over an hour’s drive from the city of Chattanooga, where you can check out the following attractions.
- Chickamauga & Chattanooga National Military Park: Chattanooga is well-known for the battles that took place here during the Civil War, and is home to the country’s oldest and largest Civil War park.
- Tennessee Aquarium: As one of the largest freshwater aquariums in the world, this famous attraction features a vast array of animals that live both above and below the ocean.
- The Creative Discovery Museum: If you’re traveling with kids, you can’t miss out on this fascinating children’s museum, which features exhibits and activities for all ages.
Ocoee River Florida Rafting Trip Prices
Rafting on the Ocoee is thrilling no matter how large your party is. However, we believe there’s something special about paddling down rapids with your family, friends and teammates from work, which is why we’ve made it easy for groups to raft together by offering discounted rates.
The price for a rafting trip on the Ocoee depends on the size of your party and the day of the week. For instance, if you travel with a group of 11 people or fewer and go on a Saturday, the per-person rate is $43. If you visit with a group of 40+ people on a weekday, however, the per-person cost drops to $32.
The above rates apply to both Upper Ocoee and Middle Ocoee. If you’d like to do both sections in one day, we offer combo trips, including lunch, that start at $80.
Rafting, Zip Line and Mountain Biking Combos
As we mentioned before, there’s a lot more to do on the Ocoee, including zip lining canopy tours. If you’re interested in both rafting and zip lining, we offer the following combo packages.
- Zip Line + Half Ocoee River Rafting Trip ($95): With this package, you can raft either the Upper or Middle Ocoee and then take our Ocoee Zip Line and Canopy Tour.
- Zip Line + Full Ocoee River Rafting Trip ($165): As the most popular combo we offer, this package is like the one above, except you get to raft the entire river and enjoy a lunch break between the two sections.
- Raft1 Mini-Ironman: Zip Line + Middle Ocoee River Trip + Three-Hour Mountain Biking ($120): This package is an introduction to our full Ironman trip that allows you to enjoy the excitement and beauty of the Ocoee River gorge, but is not as long as the full Ironman.
- Raft1 Ironman: Full River Rafting + Zip Line + Mountain Biking ($195): This package truly separates the hobbyists from the dedicated athletes. On this trip, we start by guiding you down the rapids on both sections of the river, with a lunch break between. You will then zip line along a mile of cable while taking in views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Cherokee Forest. Finally, you’ll go mountain biking along the trails of the national forest.
Rafting, Zip Line and Horseback Riding Combos
Raft1 also offers packages that combine rafting, zip lining and horseback riding. If you choose this package, you will start the day by rafting, then enjoy a two-hour zip line canopy tour and end the day with a horseback ride through the mountains of Tennessee and Georgia. You can book this adventure here.
Lodging Packages
Are you looking for overnight whitewater rafting trips near Florida? Raft1 also offers great lodging rates for large groups, which include the following.
1. The Big Lodge
This two-story, log cabin-style bunkhouse has 44 single-person beds divided among four rooms. Mattresses come included, but you will need to bring along a sleeping bag, pillow and towels. There is also a kitchen with a microwave and refrigerator.
If you’re coming during the summertime, you won’t have to worry about getting hot, as the Big Lodge is air-conditioned. There are also two small bathrooms, and you can shower in the main bathhouse located just down the hill.
There is also a large deck and common room that are great for hanging out, meeting up or playing games. The deck also includes grills and picnic tables, and in the woods nearby, there is also a fire ring.
The rate for the Big Lodge is $15 per person per night. We require a minimum of $250 for a reservation.
2. The Small Lodge
This smaller, rustic lodge has 16 single-person beds divided among two bunk-style rooms. As is the case with Big Lodge, we provide mattresses, but you will need to bring a sleeping bag, pillow and towels. There is a small kitchen in the lodge equipped with a sink, refrigerator and microwave.
The Small Lodge also has air conditioning, which makes the lodge a welcome refuge during the hottest days of summer. There are also two small bathrooms, and showers just down the hill in the main bathhouse. The lodge also features a spacious screened-in porch on the side, which is great for playing games and hanging out.
The rate for the Small Lodge is $15 per person per night, and you must pay a minimum of $75 to reserve it.
3. Ocoee Camping on the Raft1 Outpost
If you and your group are interested in a more adventurous lodging arrangement, consider roughing it one of our campsites. We have two sites, each of which can accommodate three or four small tents.
If you choose to stay in our campground, remember to bring along some firewood, which you can buy locally, as well as garbage bags, water containers, grills, flashlights, matches, ground cloths, towels, sleeping bags, tents and chairs. For grilling, we recommend portable propane grills.
If your party needs more room than is available at our campground, you can stay at the nearby Thunder Rock Campground, only a five-minute drive away. The sites there are spacious and include a fire pit and picnic table. The rate is $12 per site per night.
For an Even Wilder Experience, Check out Rafting on the Chattooga River
If you’re interested in delving deeper into nature and experiencing an even wilder river, you can look into rafting tours on the nearby Chattooga River. This river, which features breathtaking waterfalls and abundant wildlife, is in South Carolina and Northeast Georgia and is an excellent rafting destination for those seeking adventure and thrills. Southeastern Expeditions, the river’s premier outfitter, offers rafting, canoeing and kayaking tours. The Chattooga features rapids ranging from Class II up to Class V, making it a great choice for both timid first-timers and experienced risk-takers.
Consider Joining an Outdoor Social Club
If you would like to take advantage of Raft1’s group rates for Florida whitewater rafting trips, but cannot find enough people to join your party, think about joining an outdoor social club in your area that plans whitewater rafting tours for Florida residents to experience the Ocoee.
The Adventure Club of Gainesville arranges some of the best whitewater rafting trips for Floridians, taking care of all the logistics of planning whitewater rafting for groups from Florida. To become a member, you must pay the minimal monthly fees, which cover the costs of administration. This Florida adventure club has planned rafting trips to both the Ocoee and Chattooga rivers.
Raft1 Offers the Best River Rafting Near Florida
Choosing Ocoee River rafting for Florida residents and Raft1 to guide you down it is, we believe, the perfect combination for an unforgettable rafting experience. After all, the Ocoee River is the most popular rafting destination in the country, and Raft1 is the highest independently rated rafting tour company on the Ocoee River.
Our expert guides are passionate about providing the safest, most memorable experience for all rafters aged 12 or older. Book a tour with us today and find out why Raft1 has received more five-star TripAdvisor ratings than any other rafting company on the Ocoee River.
When you’re looking for whitewater rafting near Orlando, Jacksonville, Tallahassee or anywhere else in Florida, feel free to call us at 423-799-2354 and we’ll be glad to help you plan your trip, including when to raft, where to stay and the best places to eat. After all, we like to think of ourselves as not just raft guides — but tour guides!
FAQs
Florida Whitewater Rafting Tours | Raft One Ocoee River Rafting? ›
The Ocoee is a quick-moving, fun and splashy river that contains mostly Class III and IV rapids. It consists of two sections: the Upper Ocoee, which has Class II-IV rapids and includes the 1996 Olympic slalom course, and the Middle Ocoee, which has four miles of Class III and IV rapids.
What level of rafting is the Ocoee? ›The Ocoee is a quick-moving, fun and splashy river that contains mostly Class III and IV rapids. It consists of two sections: the Upper Ocoee, which has Class II-IV rapids and includes the 1996 Olympic slalom course, and the Middle Ocoee, which has four miles of Class III and IV rapids.
Does Ocoee have Class 5 rapids? ›No, the Ocoee does not have any Class 5 rapids. The typical water levels rafted are between 1,200 to 1,600 cfs.
What is the difficulty scale for rafting? ›Class 3 is a typical beginner level for rafting. Class 4 is intermediate to advanced and good for adventure rafters. Class 5 is advanced and recommended only for experienced rafters. Class 6 is unrunnable by most people and presents an extreme level of danger.
How many people raft the Ocoee? ›How many people to a raft? We accommodate 4-6 guests per boat. Occasionally we can accommodate groups of 7, depending on a variety of factors that influence a “game-time” decision.
Where is the best part of the Ocoee to raft? ›The Upper Ocoee which starts upstream of the Middle is in a remote and beautiful canyon. The first mile of the Upper is considerable “tamer” than the remainder of the Ocoee and allows you to acclimate to rafting at a slower pace.
What are Class 6 rapids? ›Class VI: Extreme and Exploratory Rapids
If a river is classified as Class VI it is extremely dangerous. These runs have almost never been attempted and often exemplify the extremes of difficulty, unpredictability and danger. The consequences of errors are very severe and rescue may be impossible.
Class III – Difficult: Waves numerous, high, irregular; rocks, eddies, rapids with passages that are clear though narrow, requiring expertise in maneuvering. Class IV – Very Difficult: Long rapids, waves powerful and irregular; dangerous rocks, boiling eddies; powerful and precise maneuvering required.
How many Class 4 rapids are there in Ocoee River? ›For example the Ocoee River is considered a Class IV river but only 3 of its 30+ rapids are class IV rapids.
How hard are Class 5 rapids? ›Class V: Extremely difficult, long, and very violent rapids with highly congested routes, which should be scouted from shore. Rescue conditions are difficult, and there is a significant hazard to life in the event of a mishap.
What does a Class 4 rapids look like? ›
Class IV: WILD
Rapids are long and unpredictable with large waves and narrow passages.
West Virginia's Gauley River is one not to miss if you're an experienced whitewater rafter. Its stretch of Class V+ rapids is one of the most difficult in the country. Gauley River is the heart of East Coast rafting culture and a destination for rafters from around the world.
What does Class 3 rapids look like? ›Class III Whitewater
Rapids with moderate, irregular waves. Complex maneuvers in fast current and good boat control in tight passages or around ledges are often required; large waves or strainers may be present but are easily avoided.
The Middle Ocoee is the “traditional” Ocoee and has more rapids than the Upper has though none quite as large as the biggest ones on the Upper section. As opposed to starting off gentler like the Upper, the Middle has a major class four rapid immediately after you put your raft in the river.
How cold is the Ocoee River? ›Parksville Lake (Lake Ocoee)'s current water temperature is 70°F Todays forecast is, MostlyCloudy With a high around 85°F and the low around 51°F.
What is the biggest rapid on the Ocoee River? ›surprise! Down around the bend however is one of the largest rapids on the entire river, Tablesaw. Tablesaw is a hundred yards of large waves holes and splash with a boulder at the bottom on the right which must be avoided.
What time of year is best to raft? ›Late May to late June, springtime runoff from snowmelt makes for the most exciting time of rafting season for whitewater, with cooler river temperatures and smaller crowds.
What do you wear to rafting Ocoee? ›- Wool or synthetic sweater tops (no cotton)
- Wool or synthetic pants bottoms (no cotton)
- Wool socks (optional)
- River shoes or old tennis or running shoes.
- (Please don't bring flip flops or crocs to wear on the river. ...
- Wool or synthetic stocking cap (optional)
The middle section of the raft is usually the place where people are in the best position to not fall overboard.
Can beginners do Class 5 rapids? ›Class V Rapids: Expert Class
Without previous river experience, you won't be able to to take on these rapids. They require a well-coordinated team effort to maneuver safely.
Are Class 3 rapids OK for kids? ›
Class III offers some of the best whitewater rafting experiences for kids. While the rapids are exciting and at times irregular, Class III whitewater blends adrenaline with safe maneuvering.
Are there Class 7 rapids? ›Class VII and VIII Rapids
There are plenty of narrow passages, long and quite difficult rapids, and very turbulent water in a Classes 7-8. This for the advanced rafting enthusiast as it requires precision maneuvering.
Beginners can enjoy this type of water. Class 2: Some rough water, maybe some rocks, might require some maneuvering. Basic paddling skills are needed to enjoy this type of water.
What do Class 1 rapids look like? ›Class I rapids are defined by moving water with small waves that tug at the boat in a downstream flow - it's a relaxing way to spend the day. Rafting trips on class I whitewater are generally labeled as "scenic float trips".
What happened to the Ocoee River? ›Its creation in 1996 to provide a venue for the 1996 Olympic whitewater slalom events. The Forest Service USFS owns and operates OWC. On April 26, 2022, tragedy struck the Ocoee Whitewater Center when a devastating fire broke out and destroyed the building. Fortunately, no one was injured in the blaze.
How long is Ocoee River rafting? ›The Full Ocoee River Rafting Trip Length is approximately six hours long with four and half hours on the river. Lunch is included with Full Ocoee River trips. The half features some fun play spots along the Upper Ocoee River.
What classes are the Ocoee River rapids? ›The Ocoee River features class III and IV rapids. Thus, it is the most popular river for whitewater rafting in the United States. It is known for its rapids, from family-friendly class IIIs to thrilling class IVs. The Ocoee two sections are the Middle Ocoee and the Upper Ocoee.
What are the hardest rapids in America? ›Cherry Creek—Upper Tuolumne, California
Narrow, steep and boulder-ridden, this run is certainly one of the toughest sections of whitewater out there. A whopping 15 Class V rapids punish paddlers from mid-summer to September, because the high flows of spring make Cherry Creek too dangerous.
- Class A - Lake water. Still. ...
- Class I - Easy. ...
- Class II - Moderate. ...
- Class III - Moderately difficult. ...
- Class IV - Difficult. ...
- Class V - Extremely difficult. ...
- Class VI - Extraordinarily difficult.
Grand Canyon rapids are rated on a 1-10 scale. Flat water is 1 while tough rapids like Lava Falls or Crystal can be rated 10 at certain water levels. A 10 rating in the canyon is roughly equivalent to a Class V in the standard river scale.
What is the difference between Class III and IV rapids? ›
Class III – these rapids have high waves, rocks, and other obstacles in them. These Rapids take an experienced guide and a good boat to navigate. Class IV – these rapids are long and difficult, require scouting, a high level of experience, and precise maneuvers to make it through safely.
What class rapids are in Glacier National Park? ›This is an incredible river to travel, as you glimpse Glacier Park's beauty and the surrounding wilderness. The rapids range from Class I to III, with peak water in early June.
Where is Class 4 white water rafting? ›- American River. American River rafting trips are available on the South, Middle and Nork Forks. ...
- Arkansas River. ...
- Chattooga River. ...
- Cheat River. ...
- Concord River. ...
- Deerfield River. ...
- Dolores River. ...
- Gauley River.
Fortunately, fatalities are uncommon in these activities, with rafting and kayaking fatalities occurring at a rate of 0.55 and 2.9 per 100000 user days, respectively. Injury rates for kayaking and rafting are 3 to 6 and 0.26 to 2.1 per 100000 boating days, respectively.
Why can't you wear cotton white water rafting? ›Most rafting experts will tell you that cotton clothing has a tendency to get wet and stay wet. That's why it's important to wear materials like wool, fleece, polyester, or any waterproof or quick drying fabric.
What class rapids is the new river? ›The section of the New River from Hinton to Thurmond offers challenging Class I, II, and III rapids suitable for intermediate whitewater paddlers, and consists primarily of long pools and moderate rapids. Downstream from Thurmond the river narrows and includes technical Class III - IV rapids.
What class are the Niagara rapids? ›Most of the Niagara River's waters are graded as Class I.
Although the whitewater is runnable (probably a Class IV), that would mean ending up over the falls at the end.
Witness spectacular views of the swirling Niagara Whirlpool and the river's Class 6 rapids as you soar 3,500 feet across the Niagara Gorge.
Is Ocoee River rafting safe? ›We adhere to a strict training program that exceeds what the USFS and TN State Park requires on the Ocoee River. Through all my experience and research, I have found that whitewater rafting today is a very safe sport when done within your limits and with a commercial outfitter.
What is Ocoee Florida known for? ›Known as the Ocoee massacre, it is one of the most horrific examples of racial hatred imaginable. Dozens of Black people were killed. More than 200 others were run out of town in the then-unincorporated part of west Orange County, fleeing from bullets and their burning homes.
Can you swim in the Ocoee River? ›
Yes, you can swim in the Ocoee River. Especially at Blue Hole and the Olympic Course near the former Ocoee Whitewater Center during weekdays. Always check the level and conditions first. The Ocoee River is a popular destination for whitewater rafting and kayaking, but it's also suitable for swimming.
What animals live in the Ocoee River? ›Keep your eyes open in the calmer sections of the river trip because the forest on the banks of the Ocoee is home to a wide variety of mammals such as Black Bear, squirrel, racoon, skunk, opossum, beaver, squirrel, bobcat, chipmunk, mice, river otter, red and grey fox woodchuck and white-tailed deer.
How long does it take to go down Ocoee? ›It takes approximately 2 hours on the water and 3 hours round trip. The Middle Ocoee Trip is 5 miles long. It takes approximately 2 hours on the water and 3 hours round trip. The Ocoee Combo trip is 10 miles long.
How many rapids are found on the Upper Ocoee River? ›The Upper Ocoee features six Class IV rapids and is five miles in length.
Does the Ocoee River have Class 5? ›No, the Ocoee does not have any Class 5 rapids. The typical water levels rafted are between 1,200 to 1,600 cfs.
How much does it cost to go white water rafting on the Ocoee River? ›| Number of People | 1-11 | 12-23 |
|---|---|---|
| April 1 - May 20 | $49 | $45 |
| May 27 - Sept 2 | $54 | $49 |
| Sept 9 - Oct 28 | $49 | $45 |
Ocoee means "apricot vine" in the Cherokee language - what we now call the passion flower. The city logo is inspired by this flower. The Town of Ocoee was recognized as a municipality by the Florida legislature in 1923 and became the City of Ocoee in May 1925.
Where are Class 3 rapids? ›Class III Rapids and Trips:
Westwater Canyon, Colorado River near Moab, Utah Marble Canyon, Big Hummer, Staircase, Funnel Falls, Bowling Alley, Sock-it-to-me, Last Chance. Cataract Canyon, Utah, Colorado River near Moab, Utah Mile Long, Ben Hurt. Main Salmon River, Idaho.
The Ocoee River has mostly Class III rapids. Only three sections are designated as Class IV.
What is Class 4 white water rafting in the US? ›Class IV: WILD
For strong paddlers only, Class IV (or Class 4 Rapid) is for intermediate and experienced rafters looking for a thrill. Rapids are long and unpredictable with large waves and narrow passages.
How hard are Class 4 rapids? ›
Class IV – Very Difficult: Long rapids, waves powerful and irregular; dangerous rocks, boiling eddies; powerful and precise maneuvering required.
What is the largest rapid at Ocoee? ›surprise! Down around the bend however is one of the largest rapids on the entire river, Tablesaw. Tablesaw is a hundred yards of large waves holes and splash with a boulder at the bottom on the right which must be avoided.
What is the order of the Ocoee rapids? ›The rapids on the Middle Ocoee River are listed in the order they are incountered Grumpy's, North Shore, Staging Eddy, Gonzo Shoals, Broken Nose, Second Helping, Dragon Slayer, Slice & Dice, Moon Chute, Double Suck, Hell's Half Mile, Double Trouble, Left Right Left, Squeeze Play, Flipper, Hollywood, Hiawassee Shoals, ...
What class rapids is the Yellowstone? ›The Yellowstone River is classified as Class II-III rapids from Yellowstone National Park to Paradise Valley (the first 18 miles of legally navigable whitewater on the Yellowstone River).
Are there Class 10 rapids? ›Class IX and X Rapids
There are plenty of gushing rapids, spinning and twisting water features, and obstacles the size of a house. The Gore and Tunnel rapids in the Colorado River are just 2 examples of Class 10's and in Grand Canyon depending on the water level Chrystal rapid and Lava Falls.
The highest level is class VI. Most of these rapids have never been attempted. They are extremely difficult, unpredictable and dangerous. All precautions have to be taken at favorable water levels because the consequence of error is very severe and rescue may be impossible.