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Chattooga River

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Chattooga River

The Chattooga River is without a doubt the Southeast's premier whitewater rafting adventure. In fact, Southern Living called rafting the Chattooga "The #1 Thing Every Southerner Ought to Do." The Chattooga was federally protected in 1974 by the Wild & Scenic Rivers Act, forever preserving its rugged river gorge from development. Thus, the Chattooga delivers breathtaking scenery and treasured whitewater in an unmatched wilderness setting. 

Perhaps most recognized for its depiction in the film Deliverance, there are two very distinct whitewater rafting sections on the Chattooga. Section III is what we call "Mild & Scenic." With numerous swimming holes, Class II-III rapids, and a Class IV grand finale at the famous Bull Sluice rapid, Section III is perfect for families and children eight years-old and up. 

Just downstream on Section IV, the Chattooga picks up the pace. The action begins with Seven Foot Falls and culminates with the infamous Five Falls, where five adrenaline-pumping Class IV rapids follow in quick succession.

Suggested Trips (3)

Featured trips for this waterway showing difficulty (circles) and current runnability status (squares). .

Rafting the Chattooga River (Credit: Whetstone Photo & Wildwater Adventure)
Rafting the Chattooga River (Credit: Whetstone Photo & Wildwater Adventure)
Waterway Resources
Links to USGS Gauges on this waterway
Download map files for your own use. Learn more
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Know waterway conditions and be aware of water levels and currents. Tides and winds can significantly affect the difficulty of a trip.
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Skill Level
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Flow Level
Runnable
Above Runnable
Below Runnable
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Skill & Flow Level
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Moderate
Difficult
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Runnable
Above Runnable
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Access Amenities
Parking - Dedicated Lot
Parking - Roadside
Restroom / Toilets
Fee Required
Handicap Accessible
Camping
Paddle SC is presented by
Upstate Forever
South Carolina Department of Natural Resources
South Carolina National Heritage Corridor
Rainey Foundation