Frequently Asked Questions

How many people participate? Each year, more than 300 people participate, ranging in age from 4 to 74. Most of these adventurers are “thru-paddlers” traveling all seven days. A smaller number choose Paddle Georgia Lite, our weekend-only option.

Can I go for just part of the trip? Yes. Our Paddle Georgia Lite package includes the first two days of the trip (June 15-16) and will be made available on an invitation only basis – click here to request an invitation by April 1. Paddle Georgia will accept up to 350 thru-paddlers.

What does my registration fee include? Your Paddle Georgia registration fee includes a T-shirt, boat decal, pocket-size dry box from Georgia Power Company, map bag from Hennessy Land Rover, maps and river descriptions, souvenir cup, a year’s membership to Georgia River Network, camping with bath facilities, shuttles to campsites, entertainment, activities, and educational programs.

How much does it cost? There’s not a better deal to be found! For about $68 a day, you get an all-inclusive educational adventure vacation that includes three meals a day. And, you travel for seven days through beautiful scenery without ever stopping at the gas pump! Paddle Georgia thru-paddler registration fees range from $275 to $150***. Paddle Georgia Lite registration fees range from $100 to $65. ***Registration fees may be reimbursed if the participant garners more than $550 in Canoe-a-thon pledges.

What’s a Canoe-a-thon? Like a walk-a-thon, Paddle Georgia’s Canoe-a-thon will raise money for Georgia River Network and Flint Riverkeeper. Each participant is asked to solicit donations on a per-mile basis. Those participants generating more than $550 may request to have their registration fee reimbursed. Canoe-a-thoners compete for gifts and prizes, including new boats from The Outside World and our other sponsors.

Do I need to be an experienced paddler? You don’t need to be an expert, but you do need a little experience. If you are new to paddling, we ask that you take a basic canoeing or kayaking instruction class offered through Georgia Canoe Association (www.gapaddle.com) or sign up for the Paddle Georgia paddling class offered on the day prior to the journey’s launch. The pace and distance of each day’s journey and the difficulty of the river is generally suitable for novice paddlers.

What do I need to bring? You are responsible for bringing a canoe or kayak, paddles and a personal floatation device. Paddle Georgia does not supply or rent boats. See our list of outfitters to secure your rental boat for the week. Also bring standard camping gear including a tent and personal items. Camp gear is limited to 40 pounds and two bags per person. Your boat should be of a size and weight that you and another person can carry. No camp stoves or fuel are permitted.

Where do we camp? Camping will be at nearby facilities such as a local high school. Indoor or sheltered camping is available each night for those without tents. Tent camping is on school lawns and athletic fields. Indoor shower and toilet facilities will be available at most campsites.

Do I need to bring food? Breakfast, dinner and sack lunches will be provided for a fee (see registration form). Participants may choose to bring their own food but cooking is not permitted at the campsites and access to ice is not guaranteed. A shuttle will be available at most campsites to take participants to select nearby restaurants and stores for fast pick-up of food items. You will be notified in April of our menu and meal plan registration. This form must be completed prior to participation in the trip. Participants are strongly encouraged to make use of the meals provided at campsites. You can save money on meals by purchasing the meal plan when you register.

Where do I leave my car? Paddle Georgia encourages thru-paddlers (those paddling the whole week) to take advantage of the Kick-Off Day or Trip’s End shuttles provided at a nominal additional fee. The Kick-Off Day shuttle allows participants to leave their vehicles in Bainbridge on June 14 and be shuttled along with boats and gear to the trip’s starting point in Albany. The Trip’s End shuttle allows participants to leave their vehicles at the trip’s start point and be shuttled along with boats and gear back to the starting point on June 22. During the week, you will not need your vehicle because free shuttle services will be provided between river and campsites and nearby amenities each day. Your camping gear will also be shuttled between campsites, allowing you to travel light on the river. Those who choose not to use the Kick-Off Day or Trip’s End shuttles must make their own arrangements. Shuttle services and parking areas are also provided for Paddle Georgia Lite paddlers.

Can I fish during Paddle Georgia? Yes, but you are responsible for obtaining appropriate licenses.