River SECTION DETAILS

8 different sections of the river to choose, totaling over 70 Miles from Athens, Georgia downstream into Lake Oconee. The time/length on the water and what we will explore depends on each unique section. Most of the sections the flow is slow to moderate and are suitable for the beginner paddler on up. There are stops we often make along the river. From natural sandbars to historic places of interest. 

Guided Excursion PRicing

Half-Day: $125 Per Person (3-5 Hours)

Full Day: $175 Per Person (6-8 Hours)

Multi-Day Camp and Paddle Excursions: $375-500 Per Person

Each trip is customized to you the client to do and see what you want to experience. From the State Botanical Gardens, to old railroad trestles, to old mill villages, to Ancient Native American Mounds, to the Oconee National Forest, to migratory birding, seasonal floral blooms, and the waters beyond… 

Kayak/Canoe Paddle Trips Guided By Oconee Joe

all boats (kayak/canoe/pontoon boat), paddle, life vest, shuttle to the launch site (I plan trips to where you will leave your personal vehicle at take out for convenience to you after the trip is over), and of course me as your professional river guide with an emphasis on natural and human history along the Oconee. I am a river historian, author, filmmaker, and Master Naturalist certified by the University of Georgia. I also provide complimentary drinks and light snacks. Typically what you need to bring is appropriate river/water clothing and footwear, a hat, sunscreen, a bag or pack to keep personal items dry, a personal day cooler for food/drinks that you may wish to bring, etc. Feel free to ask questions on other items to bring…

Shuttle Service Only:

To answer your last question first… Yes, I run a shuttle for my guided trips on all the sections that require one. I can also shuttle folks who may want to paddle without me as a guide with their own boats/gear but need a lift or access to certain sections/places along the Upper Oconee Watershed. 

Pontoon Boat River/Lake Trips By Oconee Joe

On Board The Altama-Hawk:

If you prefer not to paddle but want to explore the river I offer a pontoon boat excursion in the Day Pasture area of the river/Oconee National Forest downstream into Lake Oconee/Redlands area. This boat is the flagship of my fleet. Part mothership, part science lab, part water transport. The Altama-Hawk is capable of carrying a large party of river explorers, with coolers, grills, canoes and kayaks. For birding and nature trips a spotting scope can be setup on the bow and a microscope can be utilized when sampling macro-invertebrates and small flora and fauna. I can equip this boat for multiple uses depending on the excursion. 

Altama-Hawk River Taxi:

Want to access by river to the Oconee National Forest to camp and paddle or hike but have your own gear and boats? I am your insertion and extraction guide. I know of camp sites in the Forest that accessible by river. Contact me today to go over the opportunity to explore the possibilities.