Exploring Whitewater Canoeing Adventures on the Chattooga River — An Outdoor Enthusiast’s Guide

Welcome to the wild and scenic Chattooga River, one of the most prized whitewater rivers in the Southeastern United States. Forming a natural boundary between Georgia and South Carolina, the Chattooga is famous for its stunning wilderness, clear waters, and legendary rapids. As one of the few remaining free-flowing rivers in the region, it offers a pristine whitewater canoeing experience embraced by both beginners and seasoned paddlers. In this guide, we’ll focus on outdoor adventures specifically for easy whitewater canoeing trips that stretch around 16 miles in length.

🛶 Overview of the Chattooga River

The Chattooga River, designated as a Wild and Scenic River in 1974, flows 57 miles from its origin in North Carolina, through the Blue Ridge Mountains, and eventually into Lake Tugaloo. The river is divided into four sections for recreational purposes, each offering different levels of difficulty and length. For an easy yet scenic whitewater canoeing adventure, your best bet is Section II, which covers approximately 14 to 16 miles depending on your take-out point.

Good to Know:

Canoeing is best undertaken from April to October, with spring and early summer offering optimal water levels.
The Forest Service regulates the river—permits aren’t required for Section II, but group sizes are limited to 12 people.
Motorized access is limited, making it a quieter paddling experience.

✅ Recommended Whitewater Canoeing Adventure — Section II

➤ Section II: Highway 28 Bridge to Earl’s Ford (Approximately 15–16 miles)

This is the prime stretch of the Chattooga River for easy whitewater canoeing:

Put-In Point: Highway 28 Bridge (also known as Russel Bridge), near the town of Walhalla, SC.
Take-Out Option: Earl’s Ford Road access.
Length: 15.5–16 miles.
Difficulty: Class I–II (perfect for beginners and families)
Paddle Time: 6–8 hours (or split over two shorter day trips with a primitive river campsite)

Highlights Along the Way:

Gentle rapids like Big Shoals and Second Ledge provide splashy fun without being too technical.
A few peaceful flatwater pools allow for relaxed floating and picnicking.
Turn your gaze to the banks: you’ll often spot otters, kingfishers, and possibly black bears in the distance.
Gorgeous views of rhododendron-lined banks, granite outcroppings, and towering hardwood forests.

Local Tip: Pack light but bring river sandals, a dry bag, and mosquito repellent during the summer months. Cell service here is sparse, so carry a waterproof map and paddling app offline.

🏕️ Camping & Extras

Between the put-in and take-out points, paddlers can explore:

Primitive river camping at designated sites along the river. These are first-come, first-served, so early arrival is wise during weekends and holidays.
The adjacent Chattooga Trail gives you an opportunity to stretch your legs and hike alongside the river if you plan a multi-day trip.
Fishing opportunities for rainbow and brown trout, particularly near rock shoals and eddy lines.

🚗 Getting There: Travel Information

Directions to Highway 28 Bridge (Put-In Point):

From Clayton, GA: Head east on US-76 for 8 miles. Turn left onto GA-28 N and continue for 3.5 miles. The parking lot for the Highway 28 Bridge Access is on your right just before the bridge.
From Walhalla, SC: Take SC-28 west for approximately 18 miles to the Russel Bridge. Parking area will appear just past the bridge.

Expect a 25–35 minute drive from nearby towns like Clayton, GA, or Walhalla, SC. Earl’s Ford (take-out) is accessible via gravel roads; a shuttle service is recommended unless you leave a vehicle at each end.

🧭 Quick Tips Before You Paddle

Check real-time river levels through the USGS river gauge at Burrells Ford. Section II is best run when flows are between 1.5 to 2.5 feet.
Outfitters in Clayton, GA or Long Creek, SC offer shuttle services, canoe rentals, and guided trips.
Leave no trace: Pack out all trash, and avoid stepping on shoreline vegetation.

⚠️ Additional Cautions

While Section II is suitable for beginners, it’s still a river with moving water:

Always wear a Type III PFD.
Know basic self-rescue techniques.
Never paddle alone—go with a group or hire a guide.

Summary

For a laid-back, beautiful outdoor adventure within the heart of the Southern Appalachians, the Chattooga River's Section II offers one of the best whitewater canoeing experiences for beginners. Its quiet wilderness, manageable rapids, and scenic beauty make it a perfect spot for a 16-mile float packed with adventure and exploration.

Whether you're paddling solo, with a family, or a group of friends, this trip will leave you feeling refreshed and connected to one of the Southeast’s natural treasures. For those hungry for more, nearby sections like Burrells Ford to Licklog Creek provide equally engaging water trails for a second adventure.