Chattooga Wild and Scenic River wilderness guide
Wild & Scenic River · GA, NC, SC
Paddle%20Sports Guide

Chattooga Wild and Scenic River

The Chattooga Wild and Scenic River is renowned for its pristine whitewater and natural beauty, offering thrilling paddling adventures and scenic hiking opportunities.

Wild & Scenic River15,4322+ Trails
DesignationWild & Scenic River
Total Wilderness Area15,432
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Chattooga Wild and Scenic River

The Chattooga Wild and Scenic River is renowned for its pristine whitewater and natural beauty, offering thrilling paddling adventures and scenic hiking opportunities.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The Chattooga Wild and Scenic River is one of the Southeast's most cherished natural waterways, straddling the borders of Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Federally protected since 1974, it was one of the first rivers to receive the 'Wild and Scenic' designation, safeguarding its free-flowing status and outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational values. The river winds through the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains and dense forests, presenting a stunning array of rapids that attract whitewater enthusiasts from around the country. The picturesque landscape is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including towering Appalachian hardwoods and a multitude of wildlife species. Besides paddling, visitors can partake in hiking, fishing, and camping along the riverbanks, exploring trails that reveal secluded waterfalls and expansive vistas. The area holds cultural significance too, with historical sites from early settler days and Native American heritage. Visitors are drawn to the Chattooga River not only for adrenaline-pumping activities but also for the tranquil beauty of its untouched wilderness.

Field Guide · Wild & Scenic River
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Chattooga Wild and Scenic River

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Section IV, a famous and challenging whitewater section with iconic rapids like Five Falls✦ A rich ecosystem with opportunities to spot rare species like the hellbender salamander✦ Historic Burrells Ford, a site with old-growth trees and a backcountry camping atmosphere✦ Ellicott Rock Wilderness, providing seclusion and scenic beauty with the rock marking the border point between GA, NC, and SC
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Chattooga Wild and Scenic River

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Chattooga Wild and Scenic River.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Free access, though permits may be required for specific activities like fishing.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Chattooga Wild and Scenic River

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Burrells Ford Campground

Offers a rustic experience near the river with no electrical hookups but easy access to several trails.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Chattooga Wild and Scenic River

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Long Creek, South Carolina
⌖ 4.18 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Long Creek, South Carolina

Long Creek, SC, is an adventurer’s paradise offering activities like whitewater rafting, hiking, and fishing in the scenic Blue Ridge foothills. Perfect for those seeking nature's thrills.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Tallulah Falls, Georgia
⌖ 5.04 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Tallulah Falls, Georgia

Tallulah Falls, GA offers epic adventures with its jaw-dropping gorge, thrilling kayaking on the river, and trails that showcase the beauty of cascading waterfalls. Perfect for the explorer in you!

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Toccoa, Georgia
⌖ 10.33 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Toccoa, Georgia

Toccoa, GA is a peaceful town ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking trails to the majestic Toccoa Falls, explore serene landscapes and enjoy diverse adventures.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Clayton, Georgia
⌖ 11.59 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Clayton, Georgia

Clayton, GA offers outdoor enthusiasts scenic adventures with trails, lakes, and parks. Discover hiking, paddling, and more in the picturesque landscapes of North Georgia's mountains.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Westminster, South Carolina
⌖ 12.74 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Westminster, South Carolina

Westminster, SC is an off-the-beaten-path town perfect for adventurers. With excellent hiking, waterfall views, and kayaking opportunities, it's a gateway to the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Mountain Rest, South Carolina
⌖ 13.10 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Mountain Rest, South Carolina

Mountain Rest, SC, is a serene mountain town perfect for outdoor adventurers. With hiking, kayaking, and fishing in the pristine Chattooga River, it’s a hidden gem in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Chattooga Wild and Scenic River

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

School Groups
ADVEXPEDITION
Clarkesville, Georgia
Guided TourADV Bookable

School Groups

Bring your school group to Habersham Event Center in Clarkesville for a unique one-hour outdoor adventure. Perfect for up to 25 students, this experience encourages teamwork and fun in the beautiful Georgia outdoors.

Guided TourAll Ages • 1 Hour • Up to 25 ChildrenCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Seven Day Watercraft Rental • Lake Keowee
ADVEXPEDITION
Seneca, South Carolina
Boat RentalADV Bookable

Seven Day Watercraft Rental • Lake Keowee

Rentals of the Carolina Upstate’s seven-day watercraft rental on Lake Keowee offers a unique way to experience the lake’s vast shoreline. Choose between two luxury pontoon models equipped with Bluetooth and loungers for a memorable, water-based adventure with friends and family.

Boat RentalCertified Outfitter
From$500
Book Trip
Six Day Watercraft Rental • Lake Hartwell
ADVEXPEDITION
Seneca, South Carolina
Boat RentalADV Bookable

Six Day Watercraft Rental • Lake Hartwell

Take command of Lake Hartwell’s expansive waters with a six-day boat rental from Rentals of the Carolina Upstate. Power up a Viaggio pontoon with room for friends, tunes blasting, and all the essentials for a holiday weekend afloat.

Boat RentalCertified Outfitter
From$1,800
Book Trip
Four Day Watercraft Rental • Lake Hartwell
ADVEXPEDITION
Seneca, South Carolina
Boat RentalADV Bookable

Four Day Watercraft Rental • Lake Hartwell

Rentals of the Carolina Upstate offers four-day watercraft rentals on Lake Hartwell featuring spacious Viaggio boats equipped for comfort and safety. Ideal for holiday weekends, it’s your chance to navigate South Carolina’s expansive lake with ease and style.

Boat RentalCertified Outfitter
From$1,200
Book Trip
Three Day Watercraft Rental • Lake Hartwell
ADVEXPEDITION
Seneca, South Carolina
Boat RentalADV Bookable

Three Day Watercraft Rental • Lake Hartwell

Take to Lake Hartwell’s vast waters with Rentals of the Carolina Upstate’s three-day boat rentals. Enjoy spacious Viaggio pontoons loaded with modern comforts for a memorable lake adventure.

Boat RentalCertified Outfitter
From$900
Book Trip
Single Day Watercraft Rental • Lake Hartwell
ADVEXPEDITION
Seneca, South Carolina
Boat TourADV Bookable

Single Day Watercraft Rental • Lake Hartwell

Spend a day on Lake Hartwell with Rentals of the Carolina Upstate’s Viaggio boats, designed for comfort and fun. Perfect for family outings or holiday getaways with easy access and modern amenities.

Boat Tour10am - 6pmCertified Outfitter
From$300
Book Trip
Five Day Watercraft Rental • Lake Keowee
ADVEXPEDITION
Seneca, SC
Boat RentalADV Bookable

Five Day Watercraft Rental • Lake Keowee

Unlock Lake Keowee’s expansive waters with a five-day boat rental from Rentals of the Carolina Upstate. Discover powerful, well-equipped Viaggio boats designed for memorable weekends on the water.

Boat RentalCertified Outfitter
From$500
Book Trip
Four Day Watercraft Rental • Lake Keowee
ADVEXPEDITION
Seneca, South Carolina
Boat TourADV Bookable

Four Day Watercraft Rental • Lake Keowee

Rentals of the Carolina Upstate offers powerful, Bluetooth-equipped pontoon boats for four-day rentals on scenic Lake Keowee. Perfect for family outings and holiday weekends, these watercraft provide a unique way to experience South Carolina’s premier freshwater reservoir.

Boat TourCertified Outfitter
From$500
Book Trip