Georgia Tubing Map

This interactive map shows natural lazy rivers in Georgia to go tubing. It also includes some whitewater rafting, and kayaking locations. The map contains major and minor rivers of Georgia. It also incorporates major cities for reference. Since many of these sites are nearby parks, they have been depicted in green. To get more information on each River, Park, or Tubing Site, hover over the map. To get a closer look, zoom over. For more information scroll down.

State of Georgia Major River Minor River Georgia Park Kayaking Kayaking and Tubing Whitewater Rafting City

Lazy and Whitewater Rivers in Georgia

This map has the most complete tubing locations in Georgia. It includes the most popular ones, as well as the most scenic ones.

Whitewater rafting in Columbus Georgia

Most articles focus on the best rivers for floating. This map attempted to include all of them. It even includes sites for kayaking and whitewater rafting in Georgia.

This sites are mainly located in North Georgia where there are more mountains.

The timing to float down the rivers in Georgia is highly dependent on water level, not just because of rain, but because many rivers are dam controlled.

The few whitewater rafting sites are classified. The higher the value the higher the waves and the speed. The rivers on this map barely reach Class II.

Below is a description of the rivers and paddling sites.

Chattahoochee River

The Chattahoochee River originates in the southern Appalachian Mountains, in the North East corner of the state of Georgia.

It is of particular interest not just because it hosts different kayaking and tubing locations, but because it flows through the Atlanta metropolitan area.

Chattahoochee River spans most of the length of the state, and terminates in Lake Seminole, at the Georgia-Florida border. The total length of the river is 434 miles (698Km). In Florida its name changes to Apalachicola River. GA Rivers

The Chattahoochee River is cold and clear. It is also the southernmost river with trout in the U.S. Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

View of Columbus GA and the Chattahoochee River

Columbus

Columbus is the second largest city in Georgia. Columbus offers different activities but if you enjoy playing in the water, this is also the city for you. Tubing here is the perfect activity for the whole family.

Even more advantageous, this area also offers whitewater rafting. In fact Columbus has the largest urban whitewater rafting course in the world!

The Lazy River tour is a great opportunity to explore the area, relax in the sun, and share a day with friends and family.

Whitewater express offers different trips that include different difficulty levels and rapids, besides tubing.

One of the visitors favorite is a combination of fun and adventure. The trip includes rapids, a lazy river, and well known Pemberton Falls Whitewater Express

Helen

Tubers going down River in Helen Georgia

You probably have heard of Helen, GA before. This city has a small population, but it is well known for its Alpine feel. Founded by European settlers, it resembles a Bavarian village, in North Georgia.

This is thanks not just to the surrounding Blue Ridge mountains but to cobblestone walkways, food, drinks, and architecture.

If you want more than history, architecture and floating down the river; Helen, GA, is not far from Anna Ruby Falls, Raven Cliff Falls, and Smithgall Woods State Park.

Most of the river is ankle deep. Deeper areas tend to be more calm. You will find some small rapids along the way. The bottom is mostly rocks.

The long 2 hour trip may vary depending on water depth. Cool River Tubing

Atlanta Metro

Tubers down Chattahoochee River in Atlanta Georgia

Atlanta is the largest city in Georgia, in fact it is the 10th largest economy in the U.S. Because of its size there are different locations for tubing in the Metro Area.

On this map, there is a location marked on Powers Island, but there is another location at the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area. Both locations are within 16 minute drive.

At the Atlanta Metro Area, it is possible to go tubing, paddle boarding, kayaking, and even have an intro class to whitewater rafting. NOC

The location by the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area is just an added bonus. The site is home to more than 240 bird species and 20 fish species including bass, trout, and catfish.

While floating down the river you may also see rabbits, bats, and white tailed deer. The river corridor is home to many species. It is also a station for other organisms migrating. Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area

Whitesburg

View of Chattahoochee River near Whitesburg

Whitesburg is a small town located in Carroll County, west GA. Whitesburg is situated between historic Newnan and Carrolton, this town could be overlooked if it it wasn't because of Historic Banning Mills.

Historic Banning Mills is a premier adventure resort that holds the World's Largest Zip Line and the world’s tallest free-standing climbing wall! Both are certified by the Guinness World Records.

The kayak trip on this location, has Class I rapids and it is for participants at least 10 years old.

While you kayak, it is possible to see historic Chief William McIntosh Reserve, plus the beautiful natural surroundings. Source: Historic Banning Mills



Toccoa River

The river starts as Toccoa River in Georgia but its name changes to Ocoee River when it crosses the border to Tennessee. (This map only reflects the Tennessee name.)

The Toccoa River originates in the Chattahoochee National Forest. The Toccoa River is 93 miles (150 km) long, and it flows north westward.

McCaysville

View of Ocoee River or Toccoa River by McCaysville in Georgia

McCaysville is a particular location as it is right across the state line and crossing the river from Copperhill Tennessee. Both cities are going through a revaval thanks in part to the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway and the Tennessee Valley Railroad. Source: Explore Georgia.

The Toccoa River is dam controlled, so the float time changes depending on water level. The ride offers a beautiful scenery and glimpse of wildlife.

This is a popular river in the Blue Ridge Mountains, and a perfect activity for families with children over 5yrs.

Not far from this location in the Ocoee River in Tennessee there is whitewater river rafting.

The River offers a few small rapids, also depending on water depth. When water is released the speed increases. Rolling Thunder River Co.

Chestatee River

This is a 32 mile (52.72 km) long river, in the Appalachian Mountains, it is a major tributary of the Chattahoochee River.

Dahlonega

View of Chestatee River by Dahlonega Georgia

Dahlonega is located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. This town offers mountain scenery, waterfalls, clear streams, and wineries.

When you go down the Chestatee River you can expect to see wildlife, rock cliffs and woodland. Some of the aquatic life include turtles, Striper, Blue Heron, Perch, Bass, and Catfish, maybe even a beaver!

Tubing does not require a shuttle. Returning to the starting point requires a 10 minute walk.

Kayak trips take longer, about 2.5 hours. Source: http://www.chestateeriveradventures.com/

Cartecay River

The Cartecay River is a 19.1 mile (30.7 km) long river. The headwaters of the Cartecay River begin in the Chattahoochee National Forest. At its end the Cartecay River, joins the Coosawattee River.

View of Ellijay by the Cartecay River in Georgia

Ellijay

Ellijay is Georgia's Apple Capital and small town filled with shops and restaurants to explore.

This location is open for tubing, kayaking, and whitewater rafting. The Lazy river is a calm float down the river.

The other experience contains class 1 and 2 whitewater. Source: http://www.cartecayriverexperience.com/index.html

North Fork Broad River

The Broad River is a 60 mile (96km) long river, and is tributary of the Savannah River. The North Fork of the Broad River begins in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains.

View of North Fork Broad River near Royston Georgia

This is one of Georgia's last free flowing rivers.

Royston

North Fork Broad River is a beautiful river with a slow float, great for a family experience.

If you do the kayak experience it will be 4 miles and it will take 1.5 to 2 hours. Source: Slow Water

Etowah River

The Etowah River is 164 mile (264 km) watercourse. The river flows west where it forms the Lake Allatoona.

This is a popular river and there are different access points and outfitters providing services for visitors. Source: GA Rivers

Close to the river, there is the Etowah Indian Mounds, an archaeological site, for those interested in the precolonial history of the area.

View of Etowah River by Rome Georgia

Rome, GA

The city was founded over seven hills and with rivers running through it, hence the name Rome. The city developed thanks to its advantageous location next to the rivers.

The city of Rome is located at the confluence of the Etowah and the Oostanaula rivers, from which the Coosa River is formed.

This is a great location to float but it is recommended that people stay in groups. This float requires all visitors to be in good physical condition and know how to swim.

Water levels depend on Allatoona Dam releases.

Kayaks will take up to 3 hours, also depending on water level. Source: River Ratz.

Ocmulgee River

The Ocmulgee River runs through the heart of Georgia and it is 255 miles (410 km) long. The Ocmulgee River is also a major tributary of the Altamaha River.

View of Ocmulgee River near Macon Georgia

Macon

Macon is in the middle of Georgia. An ideal town for visitors thanks to its history and architecture. But if you are just interested in the outdoors, Macon has 180 acres of forest at the Amerson River Park, it also has orchards and farms for visitors. To upgrade the visit, there is the Ocmulgee River.

This is a flat water river with a few Class I shoals.

Paddling down the river is an excellent opportunity to view the natural beauty and actually enjoy Amerson River Park from the water!

The Ocmulgee River is home to blue herons, bald eagles, and turtles.

The river offers the opportunity to explore a stretch of the Seven Islands. This area winds through a forest of pines, hickory, oaks, magnolia trees, willows, and sweet gum trees. Source: Ocmulgee Outdoor Expeditions

Savannah River

View of the Savannah River close to Evans Georgia

The Savannah River is about 301 miles (484 km) long. This river is a major river in the southeast of the U.S. It is also characterized as the border between Georgia and South Carolina.

Evans

Evans is considered a suburb of Augusta, GA, and Augusta is considered the third largest city in the state, after Atlanta and Columbus.

Columbus is located in the Georgia - South Carolina Border. This, as many other cities in Georgia, is distinguished by its historical district.

The river has different opportunities for calm floats and for light to medium rapids. Above all, this paddle gives you a chance to enjoy nature. Outdoor Augusta Riverside.

Altamaha River

The Altamaha River is a 137 mile (220Km) long waterway formed at the confluence of the Oconee and Ocmulgee rivers, it ends its course in the Atlantic Ocean.

View of Altamaha River in Georgia

Uvalda

Because this recreational spot is located at the confluence of the Oconee and Ocmulgee rivers forming the Altamaha River this area is also known as the Three Rivers Doors.

While you paddle, you will be able to experience a well preserved freshwater wetland, rice fields, woodlands, and salt marshes right before the river meets the Atlantic Ocean. Source: Explore Three Rivers

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Tips for Tubing and Kayaking in Georgia

  • Tubing usually goes from Labor Day weekend to Memorial Day weekend. Kayaking has an extended season, but it is always good to call or check the sites webpage to know the opening and closing dates.
  • Tubers down the Chattahoochee River near Atlanta Georgia
  • Most outfitters offer different tubes. Those with bottoms are usually for children.
  • The time it takes a canoe to travel down a river will take at least twice as much time floating on a tube.
  • All trips include a shuttle and offer kayaks or tubes. In some cases you can take your own, and the outfitter will offer you transport for it.
  • To prevent water from spoiling all the fun, make sure you can protect your electronics like cameras, phones, and even car keys. I have personally used grocery zip bags and they did not last the whole trip. I suggest you buy on Amazon LOKSAK bags. These are reusable storage bags of 12"x20". They can protect your electronics from water, humidity, sand, and snow.
  • Proper shoes are a must. Be sure to wear shoes which fit securely to your feet. Flip flops won't do the job. This water shoes found on Amazon are perfect for a day at the river: Water Shoes for Men and Women Barefoot Quick-Dry, this is an Aqua Sock for Outdoor Athletic Sports, Kayaking, Boating, Hiking, Surfing, or even Walking.
  • Some county ordinances allow coolers, but no glass containers are permitted.
  • Most locations allow non-swimmers, but it is always preferred visitors wear a life jacket.
  • Some banks and shores may be private property. Move along, and be respectful!
  • Keep rivers clean and leave no trace!
  • Sources to Make Tubing in Georgia

    The data on Georgia State Parks was obtained from TPWD.

    The river shapefiles were downloaded from National Weather Service.

    The shapefiles with Georgia's state boundary lines and cities were downloaded from Natural Earth Data.

    The tubing locations where gathered from the sites referenced.

    This map will be updated with improved and recent information! To receive updates on this and more nature maps join my email list!!!!!!!

    Made by Luz K. Molina with D3.js.

    Interactive map of whitewater rafting, kayaking, and natural Lazy rivers for tubing in Georgia.