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Experience Mild Chattooga River Rafting (Section 3) in South Carolina Lakes & Blackwater Rivers
You can join NOC's guided whitewater adventures on the Chattooga River, where for over 50 years NOC has led guests down the southeast’s most remote wilderness rafting route; the company’s history is part of the river’s story-its founder, Payson Kennedy, even served as a stunt double in the movie Deliverance, filmed on the Chattooga River. Protected under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1974, this South Carolina Lakes & Blackwater Rivers area offers a distinctive Water-Based outdoor experience in South Carolina, combining decades of guiding expertise with the unmatched scenery and challenge of a Wild and Scenic River that you can book through Varoom.('
About this activity in South Carolina Lakes & Blackwater Rivers
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Highlights
- Experience more than 50 years of guided rafting heritage on the Chattooga River with a team founded by Payson Kennedy - part of the river’s storied history.
- Float a federally protected Wild and Scenic River for an authentic southeast wilderness rafting adventure in the region.
- Enjoy a purpose-driven whitewater trip that combines scenic canyon views, adrenaline-pumping rapids, and expert local guides.
- Choose an outdoor experience that fits groups, families, and adventure seekers looking for riverside exploration near South Carolina.
Important Information
- You’ll travel a section of the Chattooga River designated under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, offering pristine river scenery and protected natural surroundings.
- The outfitter has deep local experience guiding this stretch of river - expect knowledgeable guides who know the water, wildlife viewing opportunities, and safety-first operations.
- Participants should be in at least moderate physical condition; the trip may be unsuitable for those with significant spinal, cardiovascular, or pregnancy-related restrictions.
- Essential rafting gear and life jackets are provided by the outfitter; additional pre-trip details and packing suggestions are sent after booking.
Meeting Point
Gather at the NOC Chattooga River outfitting base - exact meeting time and detailed directions will be provided in your booking confirmation; arrive early to check in and get fitted with gear.
Includes
- You’ll get all rafting equipment and life jackets provided for your trip on South Carolina Lakes & Blackwater Rivers, so you can focus on the experience without packing extra gear.
- Equipment is supplied to support safe Water-Based activities in the area, with life jackets included for every participant.
- All necessary rafting gear and personal flotation devices are included, giving you a ready-to-go setup for exploring the region’s waterways.
Excludes
- Not recommended if you have spinal injuries - avoid this activity to protect your back while on the water.
- Not recommended if you are pregnant - this Water-Based adventure may pose risks you should avoid.
- Not recommended if you have poor cardiovascular health - the exertion involved could be unsafe for those with heart or circulation issues.
Other
- You should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness to enjoy rafting on the lakes and blackwater rivers here.
- Expect physical activity during this Water-Based experience in the area; moderate fitness helps you participate safely and comfortably.
- Being reasonably fit improves your enjoyment and ability to follow safety guidance while navigating the region’s waterways.
Customer Reviews
10/10
Based on 10 Reviews
Summary:
This was a 5/5 trip for sure! We did the section 3 trip which was a 4.5-5 hour tour with swimming and lunch and it was amazing! AK was our guide and she was very knowledgeable, personable, humorous, and totally fun! Peaches ran the other raft and they tag teamed perfectly! We felt safe the entire time and they even took some amazing pictures of us which we did purchase for $50 at the end! They also provided splash jackets which really helped keep us comfortable so we didn’t freeze when in the water. We got to jump off a rock into the current a couple times and float down the river and it was a blast! We had 2 16 year olds and an 8- year old and everyone had a great time and already asked if we can do it again next summer! It was an 80-min drive from our cabin but it was well worth it! We did the Nantahala last year and this was longer and more fun and included a delicious lunch of sandwiches, trail mix, pickles and Oreos! They had comfortable changing rooms for afterwards! Highly recommend this trip for all ages!
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Summary:
We were a party of eight that was divided into two rafts of four ( so be aware that rafts typically hold 6). We had a great time-- our guides ( Paige and Hunter) worked hard to keep our rafts close together over the course of our trip. We felt very safe and well informed of how to navigate the rapids, Bull Sluice included. Be aware that people fall out of rafts all the time, and parts of our party did -- we never felt unsafe. One party member who had fallen out expresssed gratitude for the safety video as she did not panic in the water when she fell out. Over the 5-6 hour trip there was a competitive game to play on the river, and other spots to body surf the rapids or jump in. Lunch was delicious and filling-- vegetarian and vegan options were included. We raft regularly and highly recommend NOC for your rafting trips. We wouldn't go with any other guide company.
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Summary:
It was a lot of fun and they provided a great picnic lunch. I can’t imagine that anyone within our tour group left disappointed.
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Book Water Events at South Carolina Lakes & Blackwater Rivers
Explore South Carolina Lakes & Blackwater Rivers in South Carolina for lake boating, kayaking, fishing, and scenic paddling that make the area a top choice for Water-Based adventures and Outdoor & Nature escapes. You can book guided tours and wildlife-viewing outings, or plan family-friendly and Group-Friendly multi-day trips that combine Adventure & Thrill activities with relaxed Wellness & Relaxation moments. Whether you’re arranging a Romantic & Couples retreat, a Sports-focused outing, or a special event, the region offers versatile, bookable experiences that connect you with nature and local sights.
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Know more about South Carolina Lakes & Blackwater Rivers
NOC has guided guests on the Chattooga River for over 50 years, offering the southeast’s most wilderness rafting trip on this Wild and Scenic River protected by the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act of 1974. You’ll experience genuine wilderness rafting guided by a long-established outfitter with deep local history.
Many families book guided trips on the Chattooga River to enjoy outdoor nature and Water-Based adventure; however, note the trip is a wilderness rafting experience and you should assess fitness and health considerations before booking.
NOC’s founder, Payson Kennedy, served as a stunt double in the movie Deliverance, which was filmed on the Chattooga River - a piece of local history that ties the outfitter to the river’s cinematic and outdoor heritage.
Yes - all rafting equipment and life jackets are included with NOC’s guided trips, so you’ll be outfitted for the river when you arrive for your South Carolina wilderness rafting adventure.
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness. The trip is not recommended for pregnant travelers, those with spinal injuries, or those with poor cardiovascular health, so please consider these guidelines when planning your South Carolina river adventure.
Expect wilderness-focused Water-Based adventure and guided rafting that emphasize river navigation, scenic wilderness viewing, and the hands-on thrill of rafting on a Wild and Scenic River in the South Carolina region.