Paddle Georgia 2026

Cartecay, Coosawattee & Oostanaula Rivers

Paddle Georgia 2027 Details Coming Soon!

Paddle Georgia 2026 Recap:

360 Adventurers Age 3 to 80 Make For a Successful Paddle Georgia 2026!

Trip Summary

Paddle Georgia 2026 concluded June 20 in Rome after seven days and 95 miles of paddling down the Cartecay, Coosawattee, Oostanaula and Coosa rivers. Some 360 people participated, helping generate more than $100,000 for river protection efforts. For an overview of the trip and a few photos, visit the Paddle Georgia blog page. You may view photos of the event on the Georgia Rivers Facebook page or view and download high resolution images HERE.

Please mark your calendars for June 18-25 and the 22nd annual Paddle Georgia adventure which is set for a route along the Okefenokee Swamp and Suwannee River. Interested in next year’s epic adventure? Scroll down to learn more about Paddle Georgia 2026. This will give you a feel for these annual summer river sojourns.

About Paddle Georgia 2026

Paddle Georgia 2026 will chart a 95-mile course through North Georgia from Georgia’s Apple Capital of Ellijay to the city of three rivers, Rome. The journey will take us down the Cartecay, Coosawattee, Oostanaula and Coosa rivers. In total, you’ll have a chance to dip your paddle in seven different rivers (the Ellijay, Conasuga and Etowah all flow into our route). That’s a Paddle Georgia record!

The trip will take us from Georgia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, where the Class I and II rapids of the Cartecay and Coosawattee will thrill; across a portion of Carters Lake (where you may curse the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for damming the beautiful Coosawattee!) and through the Ridge and Valley region on the Coosawattee and Oostanaula rivers replete with rich Native American history (the capitol of the Cherokee Nation was at the confluence of the Coosawattee and Conasauga rivers!) and unparalleled aquatic biodiversity (the Upper Coosa is one of North America’s most diverse river systems).

As always, we’ll have top-notch campsites with restrooms, showers and air-conditioned respite areas, catered meals and nightly educational and entertainment programs. On river and off, you’ll have the opportunity to visit area attractions, historic sites and more. And, don’t forget the people! You’ll be paddling with a great group of more than 300 river enthusiasts!

Got Questions? Click here for FAQs

Registration

Participants can register to participate in all seven days or choose 2, 3 and 4-day options. Official Paddle Georgia 2026 registration fees will be posted soon. The following are expected registration fees: “thru-paddlers” (all seven days): $460 for adults, $260 for youth ages 8-17 and $60 for youth 7-under. Two-day options (June 14-15 and June 19-20): $160 for adults, $110 for ages 8-17 and $30 for youth 7-under; three-day option (June 14-16): $260 for adults, $155 for ages 8-17 and $60 for youth 7-under; four-day option (June 17-20): $305 for adults, $205 for ages 8-17 and $60 for youth 7-under. Significant discounts are provided to families with two or more children.

REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN! REGISTRATION CLOSES MAY 31 AT 11:59 P.M.!

A limited number of scholarships to encourage women, people of color, recent immigrants and low-income individuals and families to participate are available. CLICK HERE TO APPLY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP!

Registration fees include tent campsites, shuttle services, overnight boat security, pit stops (strategically placed porta-toilets along our paddle routes), on-river and in-camp education programs, daily river maps and guides, Paddle Georgia 2026 t-shirt (or alternative swag), boat decal, and guide services. Registration fees do not include meal plans or boat rentals. Participants can choose from multiple meal plans or arrange their own meals. Meal plan costs for adults range from approximately $460 for a full seven-day meal plan to $115 for a breakfast-only, seven-day meal plan. Meal plan discounts are available for all children 12 and under. We encourage participants to take advantage of the catered meals as it simplifies logistics significantly.

NEED A RENTAL BOAT? Visit our sponsor Kayak Trips and Training to reserve a boat for the trip!

SIGN YOUR LIABILITY WAIVER! All Paddle Georgia participants must sign a liability waiver. If you’re registered, and have not completed your liability waiver, please do so now! CLICK HERE TO COMPLETE YOUR LIABILITY WAIVER ONLINE. Please register as a “Club Member” when doing so.

Georgia Educators Scholarship Program

Are you a Georgia K-12 educator and looking for an incredible summer adventure? Apply to receive a full scholarship to participate in Paddle Georgia 2026 and receive environmental education curriculum and Georgia Adopt-A-Stream training during the seven-day journey. You’ll have the trip of a lifetime and learn curriculum and skills that can help connect your students with Georgia’s rivers and streams! The scholarship pays your full registration fee. The scholarship program is open to all Georgia teachers working in K-12 public or private schools. The application deadline is March 30, 2025. CLICK HERE TO APPLY FOR AN EDUCATORS SCHOLARSHIP!

Become a Paddle Georgia Sponsor

You can support clean rivers and the development of recreational water trails by sponsoring Georgia River Network’s Paddle Georgia River Adventures. Depending on sponsorship levels, your tax deductible contribution includes complimentary registration(s) to participate in Paddle Georgia events. Click here to review a Paddle Georgia 2026 sponsorship packet or click here to make an online sponsorship donation.

Journey Details

June 14 Cartecay Contra–Our journey kicks off with an 11-mile run that dishes out a little something for everyone. Starting on the Cartecay River within the Rich Mountain Wildlife Management Area, the route descends through unspoiled forest, then skirts multiple riverfront mountain cabins and spills over Class I shoals (and one portage-able Class II rapid) before meeting its partner river, the Ellijay. The Coosawattee then winds through the heart of Georgia’s Apple Capital, alternating between mellow flatwater and playful shoals. Things you might see include…blooming rhododendron, Ellijay’s Apple Festival park, a chicken processing plant, a “Squidbillies monument,” a riverfront brewery, and a Native American fish weir.

June 15 Coosawattee Conga–The trip’s wildest whitewater highlights this 11-mile run through the Coosawattee River Resort, a residential neighborhood that straddles the river for some 10 miles, to Carters Lake. The leg’s first five miles will challenge paddlers with a series of Class II rapids; the leg’s final six miles will challenge paddlers with a flatwater journey across the upper end of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers-operated reservoir. Experiences on this run of river, before it was significantly altered with the completion of Carters Dam in 1977, inspired James Dickey’s seminal novel, Deliverance, that spawned the modern-day whitewater paddling movement. Even with the frequent riverfront homes, the scenery is exceptional, offering up a quintessential Georgia mountain paddling experience.

June 16 Ridge and Valley Rumba–Below Carters Dam, the Coosawattee descends through Northwest Georgia’s Ridge and Valley region characterized by long narrow valleys sandwiched between high ridges running from the southwest to the northeast. This 10-mile run offers up easy paddling as the river winds between riverfront farms, including a large tree nursery and one of the state’s best-known organic farms (both of which we’ll have a chance to visit!).

June 17 New Echota Cha Cha–This 15-mile jaunt takes in the final miles of the Coosawattee, bringing us nearly to the confluence of the Coosawattee and the Conasauga where the state’s New Echota Historic Site, the Cherokee capital in the early 1800s, stands as a testament to the Native Americans that once fished, paddled and froliced in these rivers. The run remains rural and remote, passing through rich farmland along an easy paddling flatwater route.

June 18 Calhoun Clog–The longest leg of the seven-day adventure, this 21-mile marathon begins on the Coosawattee, quickly meets the Conasauga River and then winds around the city of Calhoun, again through a landscape rich in history. We’ll float over another Native American fish weir, past the site of the dramatic Battle of Resaca during the Civil War and around numerous rock wing dams built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in the 1800s to facilitate steamboat navigation of the narrow and shoally Oostanaula. The mostly flatwater route is interupted occasionally by small shoals. It’s a long route, but worth every paddle stroke!

June 19 Wartyback Waltz–Beautiful bluffs, scenic islands and aquatic biodiversity highlight this 13-mile route through Gordon and Floyd counties. For avid beachcombers, the section provides the freshwater equivalent of an unspoiled beach. The shells of freshwater mussels with colorful names like Alabama orb and three horned-wartyback can be found in abundance on this run of river…along with a host of other common and not so common freshwater invertebrates. If you’re lucky, you might even encounter an interupted rocksnail, a federally endangered freshwater snail known to be found only in the Oostanaula River basin. Occasional shoals and historic navigational wingdams dating to the 1800s interupt what is mostly a flatwater paddle.

June 20 Three Rivers Reel–The run to our final destination takes in about 14 miles of the Oostanaula (and about 600 feet of the Coosa!). Once at this confluence in downtown Rome, don’t forget to dip your paddle in the Etowah, the seventh and final river to touch this year’s paddle route! The route runs from the country to the city along another historic stretch of water. You’ll pass over yet another Native American fish weir, have a chance to visit a nature center housed in Rome’s historic water pumping station, inspect the wrecks of steamboats and even visit the Three River City’s iconic clocktower. It’ll be a fitting ending to an epic journey that saw three major river confluences and touched seven major Georgia rivers!

Campsite Information

White Path Creek Farms June 13-16

This facility located five miles north of Ellijay features a massive open-air event space with stage and climate-controlled escape-the-heat rooms along with acres of prime tent camping spots nestled along White Path Creek, a tributary of the Ellijay River. The event space as our registration, dining and program area. Tent camping will be along the shaded path of White Path Creek with ample space for RV/Campers (but no electric or sewer hookups). Restrooms and limited showers are available at the event space. Additional climate-controlled shower and toilet trailers will be provided. Wi-fi is available. The site also features an covered pavilion by the creek, walking trails and, notably, a distillery specializing in peach and apple brandies. Alternative lodging accommodations are available nearby. Below please find a map detailing the facilities we will use. Click on the icons to learn more about each location.

Alternative Accommodations

Prefer the comfort of a bed to a tent and sleeping bag? No problem! One of our Paddle Georgia sponsors, Coosawattee River Resort, offers overnight accommodations with multiple rental options ranging from rooms in its river lodge to A-frame villas to riverfront cabins–ALL AT A 25% DISCOUNT! The resort’s River Park Lodge and River Park Villas are conveniently located at our take out site for June 14 and launch site for June 15. Use the code GA26 when making reservations to receive the discount. CLICK HERE TO EXPLORE RENTAL OPTIONS.

Georgia Cumberland Academy June 16-20

Nestled in a bend of the Oostanaula River, this 500-acre Seventh-day Adventist boarding school campus will be our home for the final four nights of our journey. The site features indoor camping in the school’s gymnasiums, outdoor camping on the shaded fringes of the athletic fields and an expansive cafeteria where we will hold our meals and evening educational programs. Restooms and showers are located in school’s Wally Fox Wellness Center and will be supplemented with a climate-controlled shower trailer. Wi-fi is available. Alternative lodging accomodations are located relatively nearby in Calhoun and Rome. Click here for more information about Georgia Cumberland Academy. Below please find a map detailing the facilities we will use. Click on the icons to learn more about each location.

Logistics--Getting There and Getting Back Home!

Where do I drop my boat at the river? What do I do with my vehicle during the trip? How do I get back to my vehicle at the end of my trip?

Never fear! We’ve got answers to all your questions. Upon arrival at your initial campsite, you’ll register and be directed to the appropriate boat drop off location. This will take place on the day prior to your trip beginning. You’ll drop your boat at your initial launch site (overnight security is provided each evening to keep your boat and equipment safe and sound). You can then set up camp. Once settled into camp, you really won’t need your vehicle. Shuttle buses will carry you to and from the river each day. In camp you’ll always have access to your vehicle. When we move campsite locations, a shuttle bus will return you to the initial campsite where you’ll retrieve your vehicle and drive to the next campsite. Please review the detailed logistical instructions below!

On Site Registration (Complete Paddle Georgia 2026 update coming soon!)

White Creek Path Farms June 13-16: For thru-paddlers, June 14-15 Paddle Lite Paddlers and 3-Day Paddlers (June 14-16). On site registration will take place June 13 from Noon-8 p.m.

Directions to White Creek Path Farms: From the intersection of U.S. 76 (Zell Miller Mountain Parkway) and First Avenue in Ellijay, travel north on U.S. 76 4.2 miles. Turn left on to Old Northcutt Road and proceed 0.2 mile. Look for the White Path Creek Distillery signs and turn right on a private road, traveling 0.3 mile to the White Creek Path Farms event facility.

Georgia Cumberland Academy June 16-20: For 4-Day Paddlers (June 17-20) and June 19-20 Paddle Lite Paddlers. On site registration will take place June 16 from 2-8 p.m. for 4-Day Paddlers and June 18 from 2-8 p.m. for June 19-20 Paddle Lite Paddlers.

Directions to Georgia Cumberland Academy: From the intersection of I-75 and Ga. 53 (Exit 310), proceed west on Ga. 53 4.4 miles. Turn right on Ga. 53 toward Calhoun and proceed 0.7 mile. Turn left on Reeves Station Road and proceed 1.8 mile. Turn right on Academy Drive and the entrance to Georgia Cumberland Academy and proceed 0.5 to campsite. Here’s a google map showing the route:

All participants must register at these sites during the appointed times. We encourage participants to arrive early and join us for dinner the evening before beginning paddling. A mandatory safety briefing for registered participants will be held June 13, June 16 and June 18 at approximately 8:00 p.m. following dinner. Remember! If you purchased a meal plan, your first dinner is the one preceeding your first day of paddling. Upon check in, you will receive your Paddle Georgia 2026 t-shirt or other swag of your choice, a Paddle Georgia 2026 decal and your on-river maps and guides. You’ll also be directed to our tent camping area and initial boat launch so that you may drop your boat there.

Boat Drop Off Locations

All participants will drop their boats at the appropriate designated launch site to begin their journey. A Georgia Rivers attendant will be present at the boat drop off locations during boat drop off times to provide instructions. Overnight security will be provided at all boat drop off locations.

Cartecay Tract of Rich Mountain Wildlife Management Area Boat Launch June 13 Noon-6 p.m.: Thru-paddlers, Paddle Lite paddlers (June 14-15) and 3-Day paddlers (June 14-16) will drop their boats at this Georgia Department of Natural Resources launch site on the Cartecay River. PLEASE NOTE: All participants must have a valid Georgia fishing or hunting license to utilize this state-maintained access. Licenses ($21) can be purchased at www.gooutdoorsgeorgia.com

Directions from White Path Creek Farms to Cartecay Tract Launch Site: From the White Creek Path Farms event facility return to Old Northcutt Road. Turn left and proceed 0.2 mile to U.S. 76 (Zell Miller Nountain Parkway). Turn right and proceed 3.5 miles. Turn left on to Greenfield Road following signs to Ga. 52 east. Turn left on Ga. 52 east and proceed 2.7 miles. Turn right on to Canoe Launch Road (look for signs for the Gilmer County Animal Shelter) and proceed 0.8 mile to launch site. Here’s a google map showing the route:

Langford Property Launch June 16 (Tuesday) 2-6 p.m.: 4-Day paddlers (June 17-20) will drop their boats at this launch site located on private property off Pleasant Hill Road.

Directions from Georgia Cumberland Academy to Langford Property Launch: From Georgia Cumberland Academy, return to Reeves Station Road and turn left. Continue for 1.8 miles to Ga. 53. Turn left and proceed 0.7 mile. At interchange, stay left continuing on Ga. 53 Spur to Calhoun. Proceed 2.6 miles to River Street in Calhoun. Turn left and proceed 0.4 mile. Turn right on C.L. Moss Parkway and travel 0.7 mile. Turn right on Redbud Road and proceed 11 miles. Turn left on Pleasant Hill Road and proceed 3.7 miles. Turn left on private drive and proceed 0.2 mile to the boat drop off area in a pasture at the end of the gravel road (do not attempt to drive down to the river). Here’s a google map showing the route:

Ga. 156 Boat Ramp June 18 (Thursday) 2-6 p.m.: Paddle Lite paddlers (June 19-20) will drop their boats at this launch site located on Ga. 156 in Gordon County.

Directions from Georgia Cumberland Academy to Ga. 156 Boat Ramp: From Georgia Cumberland Academy, return to Reeves Station Road. Turn right and proceed 1.8 mile. Turn right on Ga. 156 and proceed 2 miles to entrance to Ga. 156 Boat Ramp on right. Here’s a google map showing the route:

Campsite to Campsite Transportation

On the days that we move to a new campsite, shuttles will return drivers to our initial campsite where they will retrieve their vehicles and drive to our next campsite as necessary. By this means, participants will have access to their vehicles throughout the event and you will never need to carry your camp gear in your boat.

June 15 Shuttle for Paddle Lite (June 14-15) Paddlers: On Monday, June 15, Paddle Lite paddlers will finish their journey at Doll Mountain Campground Boat Ramp. From there buses will return them to Camp Jordan. Upon retrieving their vehicles, they will return to Doll Mountain, load their boats and return home.

June 16 Shuttle For Thru-Paddlers and 3-Day Paddlers: On Tuesday June 16, we’ll move campsites! At the end of the day’s paddle route at the Langford Property, buses will return thru-paddlers and 3-day Paddlers to White Path Creek Farms where they will retrieve their vehicles and proceed to our next campsite, Georgia Cumberland Academy. 3-Day Paddlers will retrieve their vehicles at White Path Creek Farms, return to the Langford Property, load their boats and return home.

June 20 Shuttle For Thru-Paddlers, 4-Day Paddlers and 2-Day Paddle Lite Paddlers: On Saturday June 20 upon finishing our journey at Rome’s Heritage Park, all participants will be shuttled back to Georgia Cumberland Academy where they will retrieve their vehicles, return to Rome, load their boats and return home.

Directions from White Path Creek Farms to Georgia Cumberland Academy (June 16): From White Creek Path Farms, return to U.S. 76 (Zell Miller Mountain Parkway). Turn right and proceed 16.7 miles. Turn right on to Ga. 136 access road and proceed 0.2 mile. Turn right on Ga. 136 and proceed 2.4 miles to roundabout. Take the second exit in the roundabout, continuing 2.6 miles on Ga. 136 to Ga. 53. Turn right on Ga. 53 and proceed 9 miles to U.S. 411 in Fairmount. Turn left on U.S. 411 and proceed 0.4 mile through Fairmount. Turn right on Ga. 53 West and proceed 17.7 miles. Turn right on Ga. 53 toward Calhoun and proceed 0.9 mile. Turn left on Reeves Station Road and proveed 1.8 miles. Turn right into entrance to Georgia Cumberland Academy and proceed 0.6 mile to campsite. Here’s a googel map showing the route:

Directions from Georgia Cumberland Academy to Heritage Park in Rome (June 20): From Georgia Cumberland Academy, return to Reeves Station Road. Turn left and proceed 0.5 mile. Turn right on Switch Road and proceed 1.3 mile. Turn right on Ga. 53 and proceed 14.7 miles. Turn right on Ga. 1 Loop and proceed 1.8 mile. Turn left on Riverside Parkway and proceed 1.5 mile. Turn right on Turner McCall Blvd and proceed 0.7 mile. Turn left on 2nd Ave/Martha Berry Blvd. and proceed 0.3 mile. Turn right into entrance to Heritage Park.

Meals

No one has ever gone hungry on Paddle Georgia! Each morning we begin our day with a catered hot breakfast typically featuring eggs, grits, breakfast meats, breads, cereals, yogurts, fresh fruit, juices and coffee with alternatives for vegetarians, vegans and gluten-free dieters.

Sack lunches with your choice of sandwiches come with chips, fresh fruit and dessert and are picked up at breakfast before boarding buses for the ride to the river. Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free alternatives are also available. Sandwich choices will include a variety of specialty sandwiches each day such as veggie and hummus spinach wraps, chicken salad spinach wraps, tuna salad on wheat, Korean tofu and veggie garlic wraps, Cubano wraps with pork and Swiss cheese and more. Good ole peanut butter and jelly sandwiches will be available every day!

We end each day with a catered dinner ranging from barbecue to low country boils to taco and pasta bars. Again, vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free alternatives are available.

Our meals this year will be provided by Dry Your Eyes Catering in Conyers, regular caterers to Atlanta’s film and TV industry, including to the cast and crew of the Netflix hit Ozark!

We encourage all participants to purchase a meal plan. Our meal times are great opportunities to commune with your fellow paddlers, commiserate over the common struggle of the journey and spin tall tales…we never let the truth get in the way of a good river story! Let our caterers do the work while you enjoy the great times.

You will have access to your vehicles throughout the journey and grocery stores and restaurants are within a relatively short drive of each campsite. However, refrigeration is not available at our campsites for the masses and access to ice is limited.

Menus:

Saturday, June 13, Dinner: Barbecue pork, smoked chopped chicken, four cheese macaroni and cheese, coleslaw, maple smoked baked beans, barbecue mushrooms over a lemon dill arugula, sandwich buns, banana pudding, teas.

Sunday, June 14, Breakfast: Scrambled eggs, bacon, grilled chicken, grits, toast, assorted fruit, yogurt, assorted cereals, juice and milk.

Sunday, June 14, Dinner: Pasta bar featuring penne and bowtie pasta (vegan and gluten-free version available as well), heirloom tomato marinara sauce, lemon garlic alfredo sauce, smoked rosemary chicken, heritage pork andouillle sausage, oyster mushroom vegan marinara sauce, Ceasar salad with pumpernickel crotons (vegan), garlic bread, tiramisu, teas.

Monday, June 15, Breakfast: Scrambled eggs, turkey sausage, grits, biscuits, gravy, assorted fruit, yogurt, assorted cereals, juice and milk.

Monday, June 15, Dinner: Taco bar featuring smoked mojo pork, grilled fajita chicken, fajita-style grilled onions and peppers, Mexican rice, corn and flour tortillas, cheese dip, pico de gallo, guacamole, shredded lettuce, black beans, chipotle crema, tres leche cake, teas.

Tuesday, June 16, Breakfast: Scambled eggs, sausage, chorizo, black beans and rice, breakfast veggie hashbrowns, yogurt, cereals, juice and milk.

Tuesday, June 16, Dinner: TBD.

Wednesday, June 17, Breakfast: Scrambled eggs, bagel bar, grilled veggies, bacon, grits, yogurt, assorted fruit, juice and milk.

Wednesday, June 17, Dinner: Pineapple Hawaiian pork, barbecue chicken legs, macaroni salad, stir fry vegetables, white rice, fresh garden salad with lime vinaigrette, chocolate pudding, teas.

Thursday, June 18, Breakfast: Scrambled eggs, bacon, oatmeal bar, toast, assorted fruit, yogurt, juice and milk.

Thursday, June 18, Dinner: Shredded Greek chicken, tabouli, cucumber salad, coucous feta salad, hummus, olive salad, saffron rice, pita bread, baklava, teas.

Friday, June 19, Breakfast: Scrambled eggs, bacon, turkey bacon, grits, biscuits, gravy, assorted fruit, yogurt, juice and milk.

Friday, June 19, Dinner: Low country boil with shrimp, andouille sausage, corn, potatoes and onions. Vegan alternative boil with corn, potatoes, onions. Vegan ceviche, garden salad, cucumber salad, apple crumble, teas.

Saturday, June 20, Breakfast: Scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, oatmeal bar, biscuits, gravy, assorted fruit, yogurt, juice and milk.

Georgia Adopt-A-Stream

Georgia Adopt-A-Stream instructors will offer chemical water quality monitoring workshops during this event. During the training, students learn chemical water monitoring protocols and collect and test samples for water quality. Following the training, participants can complete the Adopt-A-Stream certification process. By participating in this training, you’ll have the opportunity to assist in Georgia Adopt-A-Stream’s assessment of the health of the waterways we will paddle. When you return home, you’ll have a greater understanding of rivers and streams, and you’ll be certified to conduct routine water quality monitoring on a local waterway. You can sign up to participate during online registration or when you arrive at the event! Click here to learn more about Georgia’s Adopt-A-Stream program.

Daily Itinerary

Below is the expected itinerary for the trip. Times are subject to change due to weather and river conditions. This is an adventure; itineraries are flexible!

Saturday June 13

Noon-6 p.m. Boat Drop Off at Cartecay Tract Launch Site

Noon-8 p.m. On Site Registration and Campsite Set Up at White Path Creek Farms

6:30 p.m. Dinner at White Path Creek Farms

7:15 p.m. Announcements, Introductions and Mandatory Safety Briefing

10 p.m. Lights Out/Quiet Hours

Sunday June 14

6:30-7:30 a.m. Breakfast Served at White Path Creek Farms

7:30-10 a.m. Shuttles to Launch Site at Cartecay Tract

8:00-10 a.m. Boats Launch

2:00-5 p.m. Boats Arrive at Cooswattee River Resort Take Out

1:00-5 p.m. Shuttles to White Path Creek Farms

1:00-6 p.m. Boat retrieval from Coosawattee River Resort Take Out (for participants opting out of Day 2 whitewater and Carters Lake route)

6:30 p.m. Dinner at White Path Creek Farms

7:15 p.m. Announcements, Live Auction and Movie Screening: Deliverance

10 p.m. Lights Out/Quiet Hours

Monday June 15

6:30-7:30 a.m. Breakfast Served at White Path Creek Farms

7:30-9:30 a.m. Shuttles to Cooswattee River Resort Launch Site

8:00-10 a.m. Boats Launch

8:30-10 a.m. Boat moving from Coosawattee River Resort to Doll Mountain Campground for participants opting out of Day 2 whitewater but paddling the Carters Lake flatwater route)

2:00-5 p.m. Boats Arrive at Doll Mountain Campground Take Out Site

2:00-5 p.m. Shuttles to White Path Creek Farms

1:00-6 p.m. Portage from Doll Mountain Campground to Re-Reg Dam Launch

6:30 p.m. Dinner at White Path Creek Farms

7:15 p.m. Announcements and Upper Coosa Biodiversity with Nature Conservancy

10 p.m. Lights Out/Quiet Hours

Tuesday June 16

6:30-8:30 a.m. Moving Day! Pack up Camp

6:30-7:30 a.m. Breakfast Served at White Path Creek Farms

7:30-10 a.m. Shuttles to Re-regulation Dam Launch Site

8:00-10 a.m. Boats Launch

11:00 a.m.-Noon Riverview Farms Talk (on-river)

Noon-1 p.m North Georgia Turf Farm Talk (on-river)

Noon-4 p.m. Boats Arrive at Langford Property Take Out Site

12:30-3:30 p.m. Bus Shuttles to White Path Creek Farms

1:30-5:30 p.m. Drive: White Path Creek Farms to Georgia Cumberland Academy (GCA)

2-8 p.m. On Site Registration for 4-Day Paddlers (June 17-20) at GCA

2-6 p.m. Campsite Set Up at GCA

6:30 p.m. Dinner at GCA

7:15 p.m. Announcements and Coosawattee Native American History

8:30 p.m. Safety Briefing for 4-Day Paddlers

10 p.m. Lights Out/Quiet Hours

Wednesday June 17

6:30-7:30 a.m. Breakfast Served at GCA

7:30-9:30 a.m. Shuttles to Langford Property Launch Site

8:00-10 a.m. Boats Launch

1-5 p.m. Boats Arrive at New Echota Boat Ramp

1-4 p.m. New Echota Historic Site Tours/Visit (via foot or bus)

2-5 p.m. Shuttles to GCA

6:30 p.m. Dinner at GCA

7:15 p.m. Announcements and Jesse Demonbreun-Chapman with CRBI PFAs talk

10 p.m. Lights Out/Quiet Hours

Thursday June 18

6:30-7:30 a.m. Breakfast Served at GCA

7:30-9:30 a.m. Shuttles to New Echota Boat Ramp Launch Site

7:30-9:30 a.m. 10-Mile Paddlers move boats to Ga. 136 Launch

8:00-10 a.m. Boats Launch t New Echota and Ga. 136 boat ramps

2:00-5 p.m. Boats Arrive at Ga. 156 Boat Ramp Take Out Site

2:00-5 p.m. Shuttles to GCA (21 milers) and Ga. 136 Boat Ramp (10-milers)

2:00-8 p.m. On Site Registration for 2-Day Paddlers (June 19-20) at GCA

6:30 p.m. Dinner Served at GCA

7:15 p.m. Announcements and Freedom to Float Forum

8:30 p.m. Safety Briefing for 2-Day Paddlers

10 p.m. Lights Out/Quiet Hours

Friday June 19

6:30-7:30 a.m. Breakfast Served at GCA

7:30-9:30 a.m. Shuttles to Ga. 156 Boat Ramp Launch Site

8:00-10 a.m. Boats Launch–Paddle Georgia Cleanup Day

2:00-5 p.m. Boats Arrive at Ga. 140 Boat Ramp Take Out Site

2:00-5 p.m. Shuttles to GCA

4-6 p.m. Calhoun Rock Garden Visits

6:30 p.m. Dinner Served at GCA

7:15 p.m. Announcements and Awards and No Talent Show

10 p.m. Lights Out/Quiet Hours

Saturday June 20

6:30-8:30 a.m. Moving Day! Pack up Camp

6:30-7:30 a.m. Breakfast Served at GCA

7:30-9:30 a.m. Shuttles to Ga. 140 Boat Ramp Launch Site

8:00-10 a.m. Boats Launch

Noon-3 p.m. Chieftain’s Museum/Rome-Floyd ECO-Center Tours

1:00-5 p.m. Boats Arrive at Heritage Park Final Take Out Site

1:00-5 p.m. River’s End Celebration at Heritage Park (drinks & fro-yo!)

1:00-5 p.m. Downtown Rome-Clocktower Tours

1:00-5 p.m. Shuttles to GCA

2:00-6 p.m. Break Camp and Return Home!

Policies & Recommendations

Paddle Georgia Policies

No alcoholic beverages are permitted on the river.
All participants must attend the pre-launch safety briefing. Participants must adhere to the safety guidelines presented.
Participants must wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard approved personal floatation device at all times on the river.
Participants under age 18 are the responsibility of, and must be accompanied by, a parent or guardian.
Sorry, no pets allowed.
All participants must sign a Medical and Emergency Contact Information sheet and a Waiver of Claims and Release of Liability form. Parents must sign for children under the age of 18. (These forms will be sent in the information packet.
Person-powered watercraft only.
All participants must respect private property along the river.
All participants must possess basic paddling skills and be capable of self-rescue in the water.
No more than 2 children under the age of 12 per adult guardian.
All children must have a designated seat in the vessel in which they are traveling. (no children on decks of kayaks or as “passengers” in cockpits of solo kayaks)
Georgia Rivers is not responsible for any personal property that may be lost, damaged, or stolen during the trip.
Paddle Georgia is a non-partisan, apolitical event that welcomes people of all political persuasions, races, religions, sexual orientation and ethnic backgrounds.
As a 501c3 organization, Georgia Rivers is prohibited from endorsing specific candidates or political parties. Therefore, participants are prohibited from exhibiting signs, banners, flags or other campaign materials endorsing specific candidates for office within Paddle Georgia campsites. We also encourage particpants to refrain from wearing clothing that could be construed as divisive, offensive to others or may be inappropriate for our family-friendly event.

Code of Conduct

At Georgia Rivers, we like to think of our river adventure participants as our “river family.” We come from many different backgrounds, but the river is the great equalizer and our common bond. We want all participants to treat one another as family.

Dos…

Be respectful of all participants, including their property, their person and their personal views. On our river adventures you will paddle, eat and camp with people that are very different from you. Please respect and celebrate those differences.
Be helpful. If you see someone that needs a hand in camp or on the river, please lend yours.
Be courteous. Be prepared to wait in lines for restrooms, shuttle buses, meals and more. Remember, we are all in the same boat; only by working together can we get everyone safely down the river.

Don’ts

Use inappropriate language. This is a family event with participants of all ages.
Verbally or physically intimidate or abuse other participants.
Become intoxicated or under the influence of mind-altering drugs.
Violate quiet hours by engaging in loud talk and disruptive behavior between 10 p.m. and 6:30 a.m.

Violations of these policies and our code of conduct can result in the participant being removed from the event without refund.

For Parents and Guardians of Children

Parents and guardians are responsible for the welfare and safety of their minor participants at all times, both on the river and in camp. Understand that while Georgia Rivers’ river adventure trips almost without exception attract uncommonly good and kind people, Georgia River Network does not screen participants or conduct background checks on participants.

Recommended Items to Bring

What Should I Bring? (here’s a checklist of essential items!) First Aid Kit; Sunscreen; Necessary Medication; Water Bottles (at least 3 quart bottles for each person); At least two paddles for each boat; Flexible mindset; Tent or other shelter, sleeping bag or sleep sack and sleeping pad (if you are camping); proper footwear for river and land; rain gear; whistle for signaling emergency.

Here’s a checklist of suggested optional items: Labels with your name for your boat, luggage, and other personal belongings; Ground Cloth; Reusable Plate/Utensils (wash stations provided); Clothing for weekend; Waterproof Stuff Sacks for Camp Gear; Waterproof stuff sack or case for lunch and other on river items (like dry clothing); Clothes/Swimsuit; Money to tip the caterers; Insect Repellent; Towel/Wash Cloth; Soap, Toothpaste, Toiletries; Flashlight/Head Lamp; Book; Camera; Watertight cases for Boat; Fishing Gear/License; Duct Tape; Sponge; Bailer; Snacks for river and camp; Hat or Cap (don’t forget to get your Paddle Georgia hats!); Bug netting; Extra Length of Rope; Ear Plugs (Some of our paddlers snore!); Sleep Shades (Lights out at 10 p.m.); Laptop & Electronic Communication Devices (optional); Water Guns/Cannon (optional and encouraged!); Lightweight long sleeved pants or shirts for bug protection in the evening; Layered non-cotton clothing.

16 Things You Should Bring on the Water Each Day

At least two paddles for each boat.
PFD—every Paddle Georgia participant must wear a Coast Guard approved personal flotation device at all times while on the river (no ifs, ands, buts or “gee, it’s really hot!” – this policy is STRICTLY enforced)
Every canoe should have two lines, a bow line and a stern line 8-10 feet each in length secured in such a way that they are readily accessible, but cannot come loose accidentally. Loose rope increases the risk of entanglement in the event of capsize. Kayaks should have grab loops at both bow and stern.
An extra throw rope in case of emergencies should be stored safely in each boat.
Attach a whistle to your life vest or body to signal for help in case of emergency.
A Knife
Waterproof matches or other fire source in waterproof covering.
First Aid Kit—while boats will be on the river with basic first aid supplies, each vessel should bring a first aid kit stored inside a waterproof bag or container.
A repair kit—each vessel should be able to make their own repairs (duct tape, sealant, waterproof tape and other materials are recommended)
Rain Gear—Be prepared to get wet and potentially cold. Every participant should have access to a lightweight rain jacket and rain pants in a waterproof bag or container.
Change of Clothes—Be prepared to take an unexpected swim. Every participant should have access to a dry change of clothes kept in a waterproof bag or container.
Appropriate footwear that will protect your feet from unseen underwater hazards and permit you to walk comfortably on land when launching and taking out and in the event that you must exit the Paddle Georgia course.
Sunscreen—Sunburn might be the trip’s biggest hazard.
Water Bottle or Three —At least three quarts per person per day is recommended. Bring sufficient water for the day’s paddle for everyone in your boat. Also consider bringing electrolyte packs or powdered sports drink mix to add to your water to avoid dehydration. Drinking water is not available along the Paddle Georgia route and no drink is provided w/ sack lunches. Many paddlers will fill one bottle with water and another with sports drinks (provided each morning for you to fill your own bottles).
Food—There is no access to food along the Paddle Georgia route. Sack lunches are provided to participants. No drink is included with the lunch.
Dry Bag or Ziploc—Bring a waterproof bag to protect items you don’t want to get wet, including your lunch.

Safety Procedures

Paddle Georgia participants should be aware that this canoe trip is not a commercially-guided trip. While Georgia Rivers and Paddle Georgia staff will be available on the river during each day’s paddle and participants with medical and/or First Aid training will be identified, we cannot personally ensure the safety of all participants. Unlike a commercial trip in which paid guides direct you through each bend of the river, Paddle Georgia is designed to be your adventure, and as such, you are responsible for your own safety. All participants are assuming risks (some of which are outlined below) while participating in Paddle Georgia.

Skill Level Required: Paddle Georgia is suitable for novices and beginners. Paddlers should have a basic understanding of paddle strokes, should be able to control their vessels in moving water and be capable of self-rescue in moving or deep water. If you are new to paddling, we highly recommend that you take a canoe/kayak paddling course prior to the trip. Our route is all flat water; there are no shoals or rapids. Georgia Rivers offers regular kayaking skills classes. If you are new to paddling, this course will give you the knowledge and skills you need to begin safely exploring Georgia’s rivers.

For a reminder of basic paddling safety practices, watch this American Canoe Association Video.

Weather: Average High Temperature: 87 F; Average Low Temperature: 66 F. Average June Rainfall: 3.5 inches, with typically a 40 percent chance of rain daily.

Hazards:

Strainers—Strainers are branches, trees, vegetation or other partially or totally submerged obstacles in the river’s current often found along the river’s edge. These hazards allow only water to pass through freely. The current will pull anything else down, plastering it into place, similar to the action of a kitchen colander. It is best to approach submerged trees or logs along the river bank from the downstream side to avoid having the current pin your boat against the obstacle or flipped by the force of the water. You should also avoid grabbing on to low hanging branches of partially submerged vegetation as this action can often cause your boat to capsize. To avoid a multi-boat pile up, leave enough room between boats to allow each boat to safely navigate around these obstacles.

Weather—Strong thunderstorms and high winds are not uncommon. In the event of inclement weather that includes the risk of lightning, paddle to shore, secure your boat and find cover under a dense stand of small trees. Avoid open areas, especially open areas with solitary trees, and avoid gathering in large groups. By dispersing yourselves over a large area, you reduce the risk of lightning striking numerous individuals at one time. Squatting, with your feet on a personal flotation device or seat cushion, is a good idea when in the midst of a thunderstorm (while on solid ground—not in your boat!).

Sun and Heat—Hats and appropriate sun screen are recommended. If you get too hot, the river comes with built in air conditioning – get in and cool off. You should carry at least three quarts of water each day to avoid dehydration. Sports drinks with electrolytes are also recommended. The first two days are usually the most difficult as we acclimate from spending lots of time in air-conditioned buildings to spending all day in 80-90-degree heat. Prepare by drinking lots of fluids in the days leading up to the trip.

Water Temperature—The combination of cold water and a cold afternoon thunderstorm raises the risk of dangerous changes in body temperature. Be prepared with rain gear and layered clothing that stays warm even when wet (avoid cotton).

Water Quality – Due to a variety of conditions, water quality can vary and organisms that cause illness may be present. Swimming and submersion in the water increase the risk of contracting water-borne illnesses. Ingesting river water should be avoided and cuts and sores should be kept out of the water and treated if exposed.

Trash—Unfortunately, Georgia’s waterways collect refuse from surrounding communities. Proper footwear and exercising caution can prevent unnecessary injuries. Participants should wear sandals or shoes that provide adequate protection from broken bottles, rusted appliance parts and tin cans and anything else you might find at your local landfill.

Venomous Snakes—The land surrounding our paddle routes is potential habitat for two venomous snakes—rattlesnakes and copperheads. If you encounter any snakes, simply leave them alone. Should you have the misfortune of being bitten, remain calm and get medical assistance as quickly as possible. Bites from these venomous snakes are rarely fatal, given proper medical attention. At any given moment on this trip you will not be more than a few hours from a hospital.

Terra Firma—Please step carefully when paying visits to land, especially when carrying your boat over uneven terrain.

Your Fellow Paddlers—This is a journey involving many individuals with varying degrees of skill level. Space yourselves so that you do not interfere with one another when maneuvering around obstacles. Pileups on the river can be just as dangerous as those that occur on interstate highways.

Paddle Georgia “Buddy System”

We will rely on the “Buddy System” to ensure that all participants arrive safely at the day’s take-out point. Before each day’s paddle, identify your “buddy boat or boats.” This will be the boat or group of boats with whom you will paddle for the day. The group is responsible for ensuring that if someone needs help on the river that someone is nearby to provide help and that no one is left behind. Do not lose sight of your buddy boat or members of your buddy boat group. Participants who have not identified a buddy boat for the day’s paddle will not be permitted to launch from the day’s put-in point. A sweep boat will bring up the rear of the day’s paddle to further ensure that no one is left behind

Other Considerations

What do I do if I capsize? On slow moving water, stay with your boat and swim it to shore or shallow water where you can dump the water and right your vessel. It floats even when full with water and can support you if you become tired. Make sure your belongings are secured to your boat to keep from losing them in the event of a capsize. Your fellow buddy boaters can assist in recovering any belongings and help you right your boat.In fast-moving water or rapids, get away and upstream from your boat until you reach slower moving water. Float on your back, feet downstream. Don’t try to stand in fast-moving water. Rocks or other objects can trap your feet and the force of the water can hold you under. Moving canoes filled with water can pin or crush paddlers against rocks or trees.

In the event of inclement weather…As noted above, thunderstorms are not uncommon, however, usually these afternoon-variety showers do not last long. If you are on the river during a storm event, take appropriate cover as described above, wait out the storm and continue your journey when it appears safe. Protective facilities along the river for large groups are not available.

We will make every effort to ensure that each day’s paddle is completed in full. However, if all-day dangerous weather is predicted, Spring on the Satilla will be cancelled for the day. Boats will be shuttled to the day’s next put-in point. Rain alone does not constitute dangerous weather. All participants are expected to paddle rain or shine, or they may make their own arrangements for moving themselves and their boats to the next put-in and campsite. Exceptions may be made for families paddling with small children.

Swimming…Swimming is permitted with PFDs, but of course, swim at your own risk. Water quality on this journey varies due to point and non-point source pollution. Water quality is generally at its least healthy immediately following rain events—this is especially true downstream of urban areas.

Private Property…As you will see, our route on the St. Marys takes you through many a neighbor’s backyard. Private property must be respected. It is illegal to trespass onto someone’s property, and it is an offense that is prosecutable by law. You may not enter someone’s property unless you have first received permission. At least one rest stop, with portable toilet facilities and/or restrooms will be available at the approximate midway point of each day’s paddle, therefore it is imperative that you make use of bathroom facilities when they are available. If nature calls, please use a camp trowel and cover all human waste appropriately or carry a sealable plastic bag to remove your waste with you.

Communication in the Event of Emergency…There will be cellular phones on the river at all times (one with the lead boat, one with the sweep boat and others in between). In the event of an emergency, attempt to signal or locate a boat with a cellular phone. If cellular service is available, the participants in these boats can communicate with land-based emergency personnel and on-the-water motorized boats where available.

Universal River Signals…Participants are expected to use universal river signals to communicate with other boats. They are as follows:

Stop: Potential Danger Ahead—Form a horizontal bar with your paddle and outstretched arms above your head. Those seeing this signal should pass it back to others in the party. Participants should wait for the “all clear signal” before proceeding.
All Clear—Form a vertical bar with your paddle, raising your arm and paddle above your head. The paddle blade should be turned flat for maximum visibility. This means the trip can proceed. To signal direction or preferred course through an obstacle, lower the all clear to a 45 degree angle toward the side of the river with the preferred route.
Help/Emergency—Wave paddle over your head and give three long blasts on your whistle. Whistles are best carried attached to your life vest. This means other paddlers should assist the signaler as quickly as possible.
I’m OK—Holding your elbow out to the side, repeatedly pat the top of your head with your hand. This signals that you are not hurt and do not need assistance.

Georgia Educators Scholarship Program

Are you a Georgia K-12 educator and looking for an incredible summer adventure? Apply to receive a full scholarship to participate in Paddle Georgia 2025 and receive environmental education curriculum and Georgia Adopt-A-Stream training during the seven-day journey. You’ll have the trip of a lifetime and learn curriculum and skills that can help connect your students with Georgia’s rivers and streams! The scholarship pays your full registration fee. The scholarship program is open to all Georgia teachers working in K-12 public or private schools. The application deadline is March 30, 2025; scholarship winners will be announced in early April. CLICK HERE TO APPLY FOR A SCHOLARSHIP

Official Coffee of Paddle Georgia--Cafe Campesino

Our friends at Cafe Campesino will provide coffee to fuel each day’s paddle! Endless morning cups can be purchased on site with a portion of proceeds donated to Georgia Rivers. Iced coffees and other treats will be available for purchase in the afternoon.