Kids on the Ocoee: Minimum Age, Safety & FAQs

Summer vacations are defined by the stories we tell for years to come. For adventurous families visiting Tennessee, few stories beat the thrill of conquering the Ocoee River together. But as a parent, your excitement is likely paired with a few questions: Is it safe? How old do they have to be? What if they fall in?

At Outland Expeditions, we specialize in turning nervous first-timers into lifelong river rats. We believe the Ocoee is one of the best classrooms in the world for building confidence and teamwork. This guide covers everything you need to know about bringing your kids on the Ocoee River, from strict state laws to the gear that keeps them safe.

What Is the Minimum Age for Rafting the Ocoee River?

This is the most common question we get, and the answer is straightforward but strict.

You must be at least 12 years old to raft the Ocoee River.

This is not just a policy at Outland Expeditions; it is a Tennessee State Law enforced by the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC). The Ocoee River is classified as a high-adventure waterway with Class III and IV rapids. The state has determined that 12 is the minimum age where children generally possess the physical size, mental maturity, and ability to follow complex safety instructions required for this level of whitewater.

Does Size or Experience Matter?

Even if your 10-year-old is the star of the swim team or tall for their age, the law remains the same. Outfitters on the Ocoee are strictly regulated, and we cannot make exceptions. However, this rule ensures that every raft is filled with capable paddlers who can contribute to a safe and fun trip.

Is the Ocoee River Safe for Kids?

Whitewater rafting carries inherent risks—that is part of what makes it an adventure. However, risk is managed through preparation, equipment, and expertise. The Ocoee is a dam-controlled river, meaning water levels are consistent and predictable, unlike wild rivers that depend on rainfall.

Here is how we prioritize safety for your teenagers and young adults:

• Professional Guides: Every raft is captained by a trained guide. Our guides are experts in reading the water, steering the boat, and managing the crew. They are certified in CPR and First Aid, and they know the river like the back of their hand.
• The Right Gear: We provide industry-standard safety equipment. This includes a high-flotation Personal Flotation Device (PFD) and a helmet. These are non-negotiable and must be worn at all times on the water.
• Safety Briefings: Before we even touch the water, your family will go through a comprehensive safety orientation. We teach you how to paddle, how to sit in the boat, and exactly what to do if someone takes an unexpected swim.

What Class Rapids Will We Encounter?

The Ocoee isn’t a lazy river—it’s a playground of waves and splashes. Understanding the rapids helps set expectations for your kids.

• Middle Ocoee: This is our most popular trip for families. It features five miles of continuous action with Class III and IV rapids. It’s exciting but manageable for first-timers who are 12 and older. You’ll hit famous rapids like “Grumpy,” “Broken Nose,” and “Table Saw.”
• Upper Ocoee: Available on weekends (and only during specific release times), this section includes the 1996 Olympic Whitewater Course. It is tighter, more technical, and offers a bigger adrenaline rush.
• Full River Experience: Can’t decide? The Full River trip combines both sections for a 10-mile day of adventure, complete with a riverside lunch.

For a first-time family trip, the Classic Middle Ocoee is often the perfect introduction to the sport.

Do Kids Need Previous Rafting Experience?

Absolutely not! Most of our guests, including teenagers, have never held a raft paddle before.

While experience isn’t necessary, a level of comfort with water is helpful. Your child doesn’t need to be an Olympic swimmer, but they should be comfortable floating in a life jacket and putting their face in the water. The ability to listen and follow commands—like “All Forward!” or “Lean In!”—is the most important skill they need to bring to the boat.

What Should Kids Wear on the River?

Comfort equals happiness on the river. The wrong clothing can make a thrilling trip miserable (and cold).

• Footwear: This is critical. Shoes must stay securely on the feet. No flip-flops or Crocs. Old tennis shoes, Tevas, Chacos, or water shoes with a heel strap are perfect.
• Clothing: Avoid cotton at all costs. When cotton gets wet, it stays wet and makes you cold. Opt for synthetic fabrics like polyester (athletic wear), nylon, or swimwear.
• Sun Protection: The sun reflects off the water, intensifying the UV rays. Waterproof sunscreen and sunglasses with a retention strap (Croakies) are highly recommended.

Why Choose Outland Expeditions for Your Family Trip?

We know you have choices on the Ocoee, but we pride ourselves on being the outfit that treats you like family.

• Smaller Trips, Better Experience: We focus on quality over quantity. We don’t want you to feel like cattle; we want you to feel like explorers.
• The Best Guides: Our guides aren’t just safety experts; they are entertainers, historians, and coaches. They know how to engage with teenagers to get them paddling and laughing.
• Convenience: Our outpost is easy to find, and our facilities are designed to get you on and off the river comfortably.

Ready to create unforgettable family memories?

Don’t let another summer slip by. The Ocoee River is calling!

Contact Outland Expeditions Today to Book Your Trip!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

My child turns 12 next month. Can they still go?

No. The participant must be 12 years of age on the day of the trip. We strictly adhere to Tennessee State Law regarding age limits on the Ocoee River.

What happens if my child falls out of the boat?

It is a possibility in whitewater rafting, but we train you for it! Your guide will teach the “Whitewater Swim Position” (on your back, nose and toes to the sky) during the safety briefing. Our PFDs are designed to keep heads above water, and our guides are experts at scooping swimmers back into the raft quickly.

Can I ride in the same boat as my kids?

Yes! We do our best to keep groups together. Our rafts typically hold 6 to 7 people plus a guide. If your group is larger than that, we will split you into two boats that travel down the river side-by-side, so you can splash each other along the way.

Is there a weight limit for kids?

While there is no strict minimum weight, participants must be large enough to fit securely into our commercial Type V Personal Flotation Devices. Generally, an average-sized 12-year-old will fit just fine. If you have concerns about fitting into the gear, please give us a call.

What if it rains?

You’re going to get wet anyway! We raft rain or shine. In fact, rafting in the rain can be a magical experience with mist rising off the mountains. We only delay or cancel trips in the event of severe weather that poses a safety risk (like nearby lightning).