The Chattooga River sits amidst the scenic Chattahoochee National Forest and offers a great North Georgia high mountain paddling experience without the intense rapids. Although this section of the river is the most doable of any on the Chattooga River it does contain some solid Class II and one Class III rapid, which will offer a challenge to novice paddlers. The superlative scenery is a prime example of unspoiled mountain scenery. Be apprised that a free river float plan must be filled and that getting out at Earl Ford requires around a quarter mile climb to the parking area.

Draining over 10,000 square miles the Savannah River is one of Georgia’s largest rivers, hundreds of feet wide in places. This particular paddling adventure is rather lengthy, but the swift current of the river will aid your movement downstream immensely. The channel marker numbers have been left by the Army Corps of Engineers who manage the river. This section of the river winds through exceptionally remote wilderness, so it will be rare to see anyone else along the way.

The Ocmulgee River and its tributaries drain in the middle of Georgia, but the river itself reaches the ocean. Historically the river provided an important commercial travel passage. In this part of the river dense stands of cypress and willow trees line both sides providing a feeling of seclusion while also offering riverside views. Tan sandbars form around the sweeping bends standing in stark contrast to the lush stream-side foliage. For a swifter ride keep right at New River and take the oxbow shortcut; there is a rather tricky rapid in this section so be prepared.