Frequently Asked Questions About OAR Whitewater Rafting

Q: Does pricing change throughout the season?

Yes, pricing does change throughout the season.Peak season (summer & weekends) → higher pricesEarly/late season or weekdays → lower pricesPrices also vary by group size and demand

Everything you need to plan your whitewater trip on the Ocoee.

What is the Ocoee River like for whitewater rafting?

The Ocoee River is fast, splashy, and full of action

Mostly Class III–IV rapids → exciting but not extreme
Nonstop waves & rapids → very little calm water
Beginner-friendly with a guide, but still thrilling

When is whitewater rafting available on the Ocoee River?

Whitewater rafting on the Ocoee River is available from March to October.

Spring & Fall → mostly weekends only
Summer (peak season) → multiple days per week (sometimes daily except Tue/Wed)

What is the difference between the Upper and Middle Ocoee?

Upper Ocoee → more technical with tighter turns, bigger drops, and stronger currents; includes the Olympic section and feels more challenging

Middle Ocoee → more flowy with continuous wave trains, lots of splashes, and fewer technical moves; easier and better for most rafters

Do I need rafting experience to book a trip?

No, you don’t need any rafting experience.

Most trips are designed for first-timers
You’ll go with a professional guide who teaches everything before starting
They guide you through every rapid, step by step

Can non-swimmers go rafting on the Ocoee?

Yes, non-swimmers can go rafting on the Ocoee.

You must wear a life jacket (PFD) at all times
Guides give full safety instructions
They’re trained to help if you fall in

What should I wear for whitewater rafting?

Wear quick-drying, comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting wet.

Swimwear or synthetic fabrics (avoid cotton)
Secure shoes (water shoes or strapped sandals)
Sunscreen & sunglasses with strap
Cooler weather → wetsuit or splash jacket

What happens if the TVA doesn't release water on my trip day?

If the Tennessee Valley Authority doesn’t release water:

Rafting trips don’t run (the river needs scheduled releases)
Outfitters will usually reschedule your trip or offer a refund/credit
Releases are normally scheduled in advance, so this is rare

How far is OAR from Chattanooga, Atlanta, and Nashville?

Chattanooga → ~1.5 hours (about 45 miles)
Atlanta → ~2.5 hours (about 120 miles)
Nashville → ~3 hours (about 150 miles)

What is the difference between river tubing and a lower Ocoee raft trip?

Both options float the same section of the lower Ocoee on Class I–II water, last about the same time (~1.5 hours total), and are fully guided. The difference is your ride. On the tubing trip, each guest floats in their own personal tube with a guide in a kayak accompanying every group of 10. On the raft trip, everyone rides together in a large inflatable raft steered by an OAR guide — a better fit for very young children, elderly guests, large groups who want to stay together, or anyone who just wants a more relaxed, lounging experience. A raft provides room for snacks, drinks, and music as you float. Large groups may mix and match tubes and rafts.

Is there a minimum age for tubing or rafting the lower Ocoee?

There is no minimum age for either option. The only requirement is that your child must be able to fit into an OAR life jacket, which generally means at least 50 lbs. If your child is smaller than that, you are welcome to bring a properly fitted personal life jacket and they can join the raft trip with a parent or guardian.

How do I earn a Class V certification with OAR?

To earn a Class V certification with OAR, you’ll need to progress through their guide training program:

Start as a trainee guide (usually on the Middle Ocoee)
Complete guide school + safety/rescue training
Gain experience guiding Class III–IV trips consistently
Demonstrate advanced skills on harder lines (Upper/Olympic section)
Pass OAR’s final evaluation on Class V-level skills

Does pricing change throughout the season?

Yes, pricing does change throughout the season.

Peak season (summer & weekends) → higher prices
Early/late season or weekdays → lower prices
Prices also vary by group size and demand