White Water Paddling in Knoxville, TN

The Ocoee River is one of the most popular rivers in the world, seeing hundreds of thousands of kayakers and rafters every year. This popularity is well-deserved, as it has about 10 miles of excellent class III-IV whitewater, as well as a positive relationship with TVA that keeps the agua flowing for weekend warriors all summer long.

Big South Fork is one of the most beautiful-and most hidden- jewels in East Tennessee's Cumberland Plateau. The Fork is formed by the convergence of the New River and Clear Fork, and provides paddlers with Class II-IV rapids through spectacular gorge scenery. This paddling adventure is remote, providing a true wilderness experience.

Rock Island State Park, about an hour and a half from Knoxville, is a popular freestyle paddling destination for all skill levels. The rapids range in difficulty from class III to class V. A few SUP paddlers and squirt boaters have been known to frequent Rock Island too, but in order to paddle here, boaters should have a roll and be able to identify the obvious hazards. Take a look and quickly determine, at a glance, whether the hazards present a challenge. If they do, stay on the shore.