As one of the last free-flowing rivers in the Southeast, the Chattooga River continues to flow just as it did hundreds of years ago. Thanks to the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, it will remain this way, making it a very special place. Less than 2 hours from Atlanta, GA, Greenville, SC, Clemson, SC and Asheville, NC it a river destination for everyone’s bucket list.
The river is surrounded by several national forests that provide a rich and diverse natural environment. These forests play a crucial role in preserving the river’s ecosystem. The Chattooga River is an ideal location for paddling, fishing, hiking, bird watching, and is also a nationally recognized rafting destination.
CHATTOOGA RIVER
Location
Nearby Cities
Clemson, SC: 1 hour
Greenville, SC: 1 hour 30 minutes
Asheville, NC: 2 hours
Atlanta, GA: 2 hours 15 minutes
Airports
Asheville Regional Airport (AVL): 1 hour 45 minutes
Greenville-Spartanburg International Airport (GSP): 1 hour 45 minutes
Atlanta International Airport (ATL): 2 hours 15 minutes
The Basics
The Chattooga River is approximately 57 miles long. It flows through the Appalachian Mountains, forming part of the boundary between Georgia and South Carolina. It starts near Cashiers, NC and ultimately flows into the Tugaloo River and into Lake Hartwell in South Carolina. The River is split into five sections- Section 1 (class II), Section 2 (class II-III), Section 3(class III-IV), and Section 4 (class IV-V), Section V/Lake Tugaloo (flat water).
Activities
Maps and Wilderness Information
Access Points
Paddling
- Section 1 Put In – Burrells Ford
- Section 2 Put In – Hwy 28 River Access
- Section 3 Put In – Earl’s Ford
- Section 4 Put In – Hwy 76 Chattooga River Access
- Section 4 Take Out – Tugalo Boat Ramp
Hiking
- Pullium Creek Trailhead on Big Hungry Road (35.29118528753107, -82.3286983604368)
- Bishop Branch Trailhead on Big Hungry Road (35.291386701959006, -82.32435318208896)
- Green River Cove Trailhead on Green River Cove Road (35.27470476957112, -82.30535353345005)
- Big Bradley/Little Bradley Trailhead on Holbert Cove Road (35.265651820158006, -82.28331857501001)
Fishing
- Upper Green Put In Parking Lot-Shoals Road (35.246820, -82.388671)
- Gallimore Road Access Parking Lot (35.290219, -82.359720)
- Fish Top on Green River Cove Road (35.264067, -82.324582)
- Big Rock on Green River Cove Road (35.309555, -82.260840)
History
The Chattooga River’s history is a tapestry of natural evolution, cultural heritage, and ongoing efforts to preserve its unique character for future generations. The region was traditionally inhabited by the Cherokee people until the early 1800s. The river was a vital resource for fishing, transportation, and sustenance.
In the early 1800s, European settlers moved into the area. In 1811, surveyor Andrew Ellicott marked the boundary between Georgia and North Carolina from what is now Ellicott’s Rock. In the early 20th century, the area was industrialized for logging, but by the mid-20th century, there was growing awareness of the need to conserve natural resources and protect wilderness areas.
The 1972 film “Deliverance,” based on James Dickey’s novel, was filmed on the Chattooga River. The movie’s portrayal of whitewater rafting adventures brought national attention to the river, boosting its popularity as a rafting destination.
In 1974, the Chattooga River was designated a National Wild and Scenic River, ensuring its protection and preservation. This designation helped maintain the river’s free-flowing state and safeguarded its natural and recreational values. The Chattooga is one of the few rivers declared Wild and Scenic in the Southeast.
Today the Chattooga is place for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the natural beauty of the Appalachian mountains and their rich geological history.