Ocoee is a prime spot for thrill-seekers and those looking to experience the outdoors in a truly active way. What makes it stand out? The Middle Ocoee River offers some of the most exhilarating whitewater in the Southeast, thanks to its powerful rapids and scenic backdrop of the Cherokee National Forest. Whether you’re after a quick adrenaline rush or a full-day adventure, the options are plentiful. We particularly like the Top Rated Middle Ocoee Whitewater Rafting for its focus on safe, skilled guiding and its willingness to push boundaries. But if you’re new to rafting, the Most Popular Middle Ocoee River Trip makes it easy to get your feet wet with professional guidance.
Overall, Ocoee’s tours range from short, energetic trips to all-day adventures that include meals and scenic sightseeing. Each offers a different way to experience this river’s famous rapids. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or seeking a private high-adventure escape, there’s a tour for you.
1. Middle Ocoee Whitewater Rafting – Top Rated
This tour is our top pick for its excellent ratings (5/5 from 6 reviews) and its focus on safety and expert guiding. It costs just $41 per person for a 3-hour trip, making it a budget-friendly way to experience the Ocoee River’s wild side. The guides here are the best trained on the river, ensuring both fun and safety. What sets this tour apart is its commitment to an ethics-focused approach and offering experiences “things other companies don’t do.” Expect to paddle through class III rapids with confidence, with guides pushing limits while keeping safety paramount.
This trip is best suited for those who want a shorter, high-energy experience without sacrificing quality. It’s particularly appealing for travelers who value skilled guides and a focus on responsible tourism. No matter your skill level, you’ll enjoy the thrill of navigating rushing waters and the camaraderie that comes with teamwork.
Bottom Line: For the budget-conscious thrill-seeker who wants expert guidance and a safe, exciting ride, this tour hits all the right notes.
2. Middle Ocoee River Whitewater Rafting Trip – Most Popular
This highly-rated tour attracts many visitors each year for good reason. At $55 per person, it offers a 3-hour adventure working through 20 continuous class III and IV rapids. The trip emphasizes teamwork, making it perfect for groups and families ready to conquer the river together. An experienced guide leads you through the rapids, with plenty of opportunities for splashes and adrenaline.
A key highlight is the refreshing swimming stop, giving everyone a chance to cool off and enjoy the scenery. Plus, you’ll get to admire the beauty of the Ocoee River’s surroundings. The reviews are glowing, with one describing it as “an exhilarating experience that pushed us out of our comfort zone.” This trip strikes a good balance between value and adventure, making it one of the most popular choices.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a classic, well-reviewed whitewater rafting trip with lots of rapids and a fun swimming break, this trip is hard to beat.
3. Full River Ocoee Whitewater Rafting Trip with Shore Lunch
This full-day adventure, costing $120 per person, includes 10 miles of raging rapids and a scenic shore lunch. It’s ideal if you want to spend a whole day immersed in the river’s wildest sections with a hearty picnic in the middle. The trip is designed for those who want a comprehensive experience, including plenty of rapid action combined with relaxing breaks.
What makes this tour special is the inclusion of a shoreline picnic lunch, giving you time to rest and refuel amid the thrill. It’s perfect for those with a moderate fitness level seeking an all-inclusive experience on the river. Because it covers a longer stretch of water, you’ll encounter over 30 major rapids and experience the Olympic whitewater course.
Review note: Although only 2 reviews are available, they praise the full-day format for its value and the chance to witness the river’s grandeur in one trip.
Bottom Line: For those wanting an immersive day packed with rapids and a scenic lunch, this tour offers excellent value and adventure.
4. Ocoee: Middle River Whitewater Adventure
This 3.5-hour tour, costing $45 per person, takes you through 5.5 miles of Class III/IV rapids in the Cherokee National Forest. It’s a great option for travelers wanting a middle-ground experience—not too short, not a full day. The guides here are experienced and focus on delivering both excitement and safety.
This adventure stands out thanks to the stunning forest scenery and the focus on adrenaline-pumping rapids. You’ll be navigating 17 major rapids with guidance, making it suitable for beginners with some paddling experience or more seasoned rafters. Customers have written about the “rush of adrenaline” and the beautiful backdrop.
Highlights include a chance to take adventure photos and enjoy the scenic views of the Cherokee National Forest. It’s a solid choice for a mid-length, adrenaline-packed trip.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting a shorter but intense whitewater experience with scenic surroundings.
5. Full Ocoee River Whitewater Trip with Riverside Lunch
This six-hour trip, priced at $120 per person, includes 10 miles of whitewater and a riverside lunch at midstream. It’s perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, Olympic-quality experience with a touch of relaxation.
The tour is notable for the site of the 1996 Olympic whitewater competition, giving it historical significance. The lunch break offers a chance to unwind while enjoying the beautiful river scenery. Over 30 rapids are tackled, making this a full-throttle adventure.
While reviews are limited, the high praise for the “well-organized and exhilarating” experience speaks volumes. It’s best suited for those with a full day available and a desire to combine thrill with a scenic meal.
Bottom Line: If you want to raft the famous Olympic course and enjoy a riverside meal, this full-day trip offers the best mix of adventure and relaxation.
$120 per person
6. Middle Ocoee Whitewater Rafting Trip- Top Choice
With a 4.7/5 rating from 3 reviews, this $55 per person trip is a top-rated choice for 5 miles of class III/IV rapids. It features 17 major rapids and is 90% whitewater, offering miles of big waves and class IV excitement.
The guides here are experienced, and the trip emphasizes creating memorable moments with family and friends in a natural setting. Reviewers appreciate the value for money and the thrilling ride they get in just three hours.
This tour is especially suited for those who want a well-rounded, high-energy adventure with professional guidance, and it’s a favorite among repeat visitors. The shorter duration makes it a practical option for a half-day of fun.
Bottom Line: For a high-quality, adrenaline-filled trip at a competitive price, this is one of the best options in Ocoee.
7. Private / High Adventure Whitewater Rafting Trip
This customizable, private trip, priced at $115 per person for about 5 hours, caters to those seeking a personalized and intense experience. The tour features whitewater rafting, mountain, river, and lake sightseeing, and high adventure elements.
What sets this apart is the private setting, which means fewer people and more tailored adventure options. It’s perfect for groups wanting exclusivity or families seeking a more intense, personalized experience. The tour’s focus on high adventure whitewater ensures plenty of challenging rapids, with the added benefit of scenic mountain views.
Reviews are not yet available, but the focus on customization makes it an attractive option for those willing to splurge for a more exclusive experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for groups or individuals who want a private, high-end rafting adventure with personalized attention.
$115 per person
How to Choose Your Ideal Ocoee Tour
Deciding between these options depends on your budget, schedule, and what you want out of the trip. For an affordable, adrenaline-packed quick ride, the Top Rated Middle Ocoee Whitewater Rafting is perfect. Those seeking a more comprehensive experience should consider the Full River trip with Shore Lunch or the Olympic-style full-day adventure.
If you want a shorter but higher-adrenaline trip, the Middle River Whitewater Adventure offers an excellent middle ground. For a private, tailored experience, the High Adventure Whitewater Rafting is the way to go, especially if you’re traveling with a smaller group.
Timing your trip during the spring or early summer generally guarantees good water levels, but check availability early—these tours fill up fast, especially in peak season.
In The Sum Up
Ocoee offers a range of whitewater rafting options suitable for all types of travelers. For those on a budget who want a reliable, fun trip, the Top Rated Middle Ocoee is hard to beat. If you’re interested in a full-day experience with scenic lunch and Olympic history, the full river trip is your best bet. For a personalized, high-intensity adventure, the Private High Adventure tour offers exclusivity and custom routing.
Whatever your preference, booking early gives you the best chance to secure your ideal trip. With these options, you’re guaranteed a memorable splash of adventure on one of America’s most exciting rivers.