Welcome to launch. We are currently expanding our databases quickly — user input and corrections are needed and appreciated. The content and functions on this site are deep. If you find something that is out of order, please let us know.
Tennessee · Polk Co.

Ocoee River

🏔 Scenic River🛶 AW Stewardship
Polk Co. · 8 mi · Class III–IV
Optimal: 1200–2500 CFS · USGS #03559500
1,500 avg
252CFS
2.52 ft gauge height
Below Optimal
→Stable(-49 in 3h)
✓Rapids verified by local paddlers·
⚡ Release in 4 days
Ocoee Recreational Release
Saturday, May 23 · 09:00–18:00 · 1,500 cfs · TVA
Full calendar →
Avg flow: 1,500 cfsHist. median: 1,350 cfsUSGS #03559500
Cherokee National Forest · 1996 Olympic Whitewater Venue · Tennessee Scenic River · American Whitewater Stewardship

About

The 1996 Olympic whitewater venue still runs at competition levels through Cherokee National Forest, with Tennessee Valley Authority releases creating 1,500 CFS average flows through Class III-IV rapids. The Middle Ocoee delivers five miles of non-stop wave trains that made it the Southeast's most popular commercial rafting run, while the Upper Ocoee (Olympic Section) holds the technical drops and best surfing waves that challenged international competitors. Below the powerhouse, the Lower Ocoee settles into Class II-III water through Polk County. TVA controls the releases, with optimal flows between 1,200-2,500 CFS measured at gauge 03559500. The eight-mile corridor holds Tennessee Scenic River designation and draws outfitters including Nantahala Outdoor Center and Ocoee Outdoors. American Whitewater maintains stewardship agreements that keep access open on this dam-controlled system. The Olympic legacy means infrastructure designed for spectators — parking, put-ins, and takeouts built to handle crowds watching world-class paddling.

Solunar Fishing Activity
🌒
Waxing Crescent
15% illumination
Poor
★ Moon overhead
9:07 AM
Moonrise
1:56 PM
Moonset
4:17 AM
★ Moon underfoot
9:07 PM
Next full moon: May 3111 days
Notable Rapids
GrumpyClass III+
First named rapid on the Middle Ocoee. Big waves, strong current.
Double SuckClass IV
Two powerful holes in succession. Flip potential for rafts — brace hard through both.
Table SawClass IV
Sharp ledge creates a river-wide hydraulic. One of the most powerful features on the Ocoee.
Diamond SplitterClass III+
A large boulder splits the current into two channels. Pick your line.
Broken NoseClass III+
Named for what happens if you miss the line. A powerful pour-over at the bottom.
Outfitters
Nantahala Outdoor Center
Ocoee guided raft trips
Ocoee Outdoors
Ducktown TN outfitter since 1985
10-Year Flow Patterns
See 10 years of flow patterns for this river — historical analysis is a Pro feature.Upgrade to Pro →
Your Optimal Range
Set your personal optimal CFS window per river — custom ranges are a Pro feature.Upgrade to Pro →
Data Quality

River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and access points may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level.

Know the Ocoee River? Your local knowledge makes this page better for every paddler, angler, and guide who comes after you.
Improve This River →