These internationally-recognized white water sites are well known for their scenic beauty and recreational opportunities.
Floating, canoeing and rafting constitute the major attraction for both the Hiwassee and Ocoee Rivers. Based on the International Scale of River Difficulty, the rivers have Class I, II, III, IV and V rapids. While both locations are exceptional white water settings, users should be aware that even placid looking streams are potentially hazardous for those unskilled and unfamiliar with the basic techniques of floating or water safety.
Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park is home to the Gee Creek, which is a 47-site primitive tent campground. Each site a table, fire ring and grill. Adjacent is the Gee Creek Wilderness of the Cherokee National Forest.
Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park was the first river managed in the State Scenic River program. A 23-river mile section, from the North Carolina to U.S. Hwy. 411 north of Benton, has been declared a Class III partially developed river. This stretch of river offers canoeing, rafting, fishing, hiking and nature photography. A scenic portion of the John Muir trail winds through the river gorge. Numerous public access sites provide boat launch ramps.
Hiwassee/Ocoee Scenic River State Park is also a popular fishing stream and anglers of all ages enjoy fine catches of large-mouth bass, yellow perch, catfish and brown and rainbow trout. The latter two species are stocked by the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.
Activities
BOATING
Floating, canoeing and rafting constitute the major attraction for both the Hiwassee and Ocoee Rivers. Based on the International Scale of River Difficulty, the rivers have Class I, II, III, IV and V rapids. While both locations are exceptional white water settings, users should be aware that even placid looking streams are potentially hazardous for those unskilled and unfamiliar with the basic techniques of floating or water safety.
HIKING
Many miles of foot and horse trails meander through the Hiwassee and Ocoee areas and Cherokee National Forest. The John Muir State Scenic Trail also crosses this region in Reliance.
FISHING
The Hiwassee Scenic River flows through the Cherokee National Forest and Hiwassee/Ocoee State Park.
BIRDING
The rivers are an excellent place to spot great blue herons fishing amongst the river rocks. Picnic areas bursting with wildflowers bring out an excellent variety of woodland birds as they dine on seeds, insects, and invertebrates. Bald eagles are also now occurring with greater frequency. Over 100 species of birds have been observed at the park.
Campground
GEE CREEK CAMPGROUND
The Hiwassee State Scenic Rivers’ Gee Creek campground is a haven and a home-away-from-home to many river users. Campsites are more tent-friendly than most. Some of the campsites are close enough to the river you can be lulled to sleep each night by the sound of rushing water. An easy walk will lead you along the rivers edge for fishing, nature walks or a brisk dip in the cold waters.
Gee Creek primitive campground has 47 sites, each with a table, fire ring and a grill. There is a fee for their use and the stay limit is two weeks. Public water and a bathhouse containing sinks, commodes, and hot showers are located near the center of the campground. The bathhouse is available to campers at no additional charge.
