What do we bring camping?
If your group has decided to camp or stay in the shelters or bunkhouses, go over the checklist we've provided. It covers most of the basics and a few items people tend to forget.

About how long is the whitewater trip?
MIDDLE OCOEE: This is the section of river we have known and loved since the 1970's. It is 5 miles of nearly continuous Class III - IV whitewater, with almost 20 rapids. Total trip time (from check-in to departure) is 3 1/2 to 4 hours.On the water time is approximately 1 1/2 to 2 hours.

UPPER OCOEE: This 3 1/2 mile section of the Ocoee includes the exciting Olympic Course run. The rapids are Class III - IV with a few that are considered to be more challenging than hose on the Middle Ocoee. The scenery is wonderful back in the gorge away from the road. On the water time is approximately 1 1/2 hours. We suggest our Full River Trip, which combines the Upper & Middle Ocoee, for a fun-filled action-packed day trip.

Do you need previous whitewater experience?
No. Most of our guests have never been rafting before. There is a professional guide in each raft. The most important skill you can have is the ability to listen to your guide. Everything else we can teach you.

How old do you have to be?
You must be 12 years old or older to raft the Ocoee River. This rule is set by the State of Tennessee. There is no upper age limit, however, you should be in good physical health.

What do I bring and wear?
We've enclosed a checklist of what to bring and wear. Remind everyone to wear tie-on shoes for rafting (old sneakers, river sandals, etc.) and bring dry shoes for the trip home. A plastic bag is a good idea for wet clothes.

Where do we change?
Changing rooms and hot showers are available at the outpost.

What gear does OAR supply?
We supply helmets, paddle, and lifejackets. On cool days, paddle pants and jackets are available. We also have a limited supply of wetsuits for a small rental fee.

What do I wear?
(Cool weather) Its nice to wear these things on a cool weather whitewater trip: Wool socks Wool or Acrylic sweater Synthetic top and/or bottom (wool, pile, polyester) Old sneakers, river shoes, etc. O.A.R. has paddle pants and jackets to wear over your clothes on cool days. We also have a limited number of wetsuits for rent. Try to avoid cotton... it gets wet and stays wet. Kind of makes you feel like you are stuck in a cold water washing machine cycle. (Warm weather) T-Shirt (optional) Shorts Old sneakers, river shoes, etc. Ladies - wear bathing suit under shorts and T-shirt In warm weather cotton is your friend.... it gets wet and keeps you cool.

What happens if it rains?
You get wet. Just a little earlier than you thought. We raft rain or shine. Whitewater rafting is one of those sports where you are going to be wet from about the time you get on the river until the time you get off. Paddle pants and jackets are available for those cool, rainy days.

Is it OK to bring a cooler?
Nothing goes in the raft but you and your gear. However, whitewater rafting is a hungry kind of sport. Whether or not you have chosen our catering option, you are welcome to bring some snacks and a cooler full of drinks.** The outpost is beautiful and our two picnic pavilions are open to all of our guests for picnics. Chips, snacks, and drinks are also available for purchase in our store.

** FOR YOUR SAFETY AND OURS -
PLEASE NO ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES BEFORE YOUR TRIP.