Here are the 5 best river rafting & tubing places in the SC area for summer 2024, Tripadvisor says
Who’s ready to cool off?
South Carolina is still in the early days of summer 2024 and already there have been plenty of scorchers. And according to recent forecasts, residents can expect a warmer than usual summer for the rest of the season.
For many South Carolinians, the solution to surviving these long, hot summer days will be trips to the local pool or perhaps weekend drives down to Myrtle Beach.
But how about this year you and your family try something a little different and exciting — river rafting and tubing.
There are several such places to choose from in South Carolina. Fortunately, Tripadvisor has listed the best businesses that offer recreational water sports.
Below are the five best river rafting and tubing experiences for South Carolinians.
Wildwater Rafting
You and your family will find plenty to do at Wildwater Chattooga Adventures in the Georgia and South Carolina Blue Ridge. There, you can explore a mix of white water rafting, zip lining and other outdoor adventures. Luxury cabin and group lodging offerings are also available.
“A National Wild and Scenic River since 1974, you’ll experience rafting in a truly natural setting on the undeveloped Chattoga,” the Wildwater website states. “Whether you choose the family-friendly Mini Trip & Section 3, or take on Section 4, probably the most famous stretch of white water in the Southeast, the Chattooga river provides an unparalleled river experience. Or if you prefer quieter water sports, explore the beautiful Lake Tugaloo in a touring kayak or SUP.”
River Island Adventures
River Island Adventures, near North Myrtle Beach, is the only adventure outfitter with an outpost on the Waccamaw River. It features river tubing, kayak rentals, pontoon boat tours and even survivor-style games on a private island. You can also spend the night in their two-bedroom treehouse, glamping tents with queen-size beds or bring your own tent to sleep under the stars. The outpost also includes 1 acre of fun yard games, swings, hammocks, a large fire pit, a boat dock and ramp, bathrooms with hot showers and more.
Sky Pirate Parasail
Enjoy fun in the water and above it at Sky Pirate Parasail in Hilton Head. The water sports company offers tubing, water skiing, paddle board rentals and of course, parasail rides. You can even parasail with family and friends, up to three riders at a time. But, if you’d rather spend more time on the water, there’s also the company’s dolphin ecology cruises and sunset cocktail cruises.
Nantahala Outdoor Center
The Nantahala Outdoor Center outpost has been leading trips on the Chattooga since 1972. If you live farther Upstate, then this is definitely the spot for you, as it’s a relatively short drive across state lines into North Carolina. NOC ranks among the biggest outdoor recreation organizations in the U.S.
The whitewater rafting on the Chattooga River offers plenty of fun for all ages. Section 3 of the river welcomes those 8 years old and older for a gentler rafting journey and includes swimming spots. Section 4 of the river is more suited for those 12 years old and up, escalating the intensity with Seven Foot Falls and climaxing with the renowned Five Falls, which is a sequence of Class IV rapids.
Edisto River Adventures
Edisto River Adventures near Charleston is a must-try for those interested in recreational water sports. Enjoy a 2-mile float down Edisto River, followed by more fun on an exclusive sandy beach. There you’ll find volleyball, corn hole, spike ball and badminton, as well as food trucks on the weekends.
