Activity of all forms abound in this area. Go whitewater rafting on the Chattooga River and schedule a ropes course for the next day with Wildwater Ltd. Rafting. Go to the Oconee State Park for square dancing, the Highlands NC playhouse for a comedy or drama, or the Brooks Center at Clemson University to listen to internationally known musicians. Go to the Grapes and Beans in Clayton GA on a Thursday night to listen to local musicians, have dinner and shop for pottery by local artists, the choice is yours. Additionally, you may also choose from a multitude of local events being held throughout the year. The information below will connect you with all of the surrounding communities and let you know what they have to offer. The information below will connect you with all of the surrounding communities and let you know what they have to offer.

RAFTING
Rafting the Chattooga River is an exhilarating and new experience each time this challenge is untaken. Since the Chattooga is a free-flowing river, the water level is determined by the amount of rainfall. When there is heavy rainfall the Chattooga water level rises, with hydraulics (holes) increasing in strength and the current flow increasing in speed, making the ride, wet and intense. This type of water is most common in the spring. When the water level drops, the river becomes more technical and the drops increase in height. Still resulting in an intense, but different river experience. Come enjoy all of the seasons of the Chattooga with experienced, professional guides who have developed time-tested safety procedures.

CANOEING & KAYAKING
Check these links if you are a boater needing directions or shuttle assistance.
Look here for information regarding a specific section of the river. West Fork, Section II, Section III, Section IV

WATERFALLS
The Chattooga River area is considered to have more waterfalls than any other area in the US and you have a multitude of options for hiking. At the Wildwater Ltd. Rafting Center in Long Creek, SC, there are waterfall directory/brochures of the South Carolina Upcountry, developed by the Discover Upcountry Carolina Association. Please stop in to get your copy. Go to our waterfalls page for information and directions to most area waterfalls. And always remember: Waterfalls can be very dangerous areas. Never attempt to climb a waterfall, avoid ledges, and remember the rocks can be very slippery.

HIKING TRAILS
The woods and wilds of the Chattooga River Area are filled with opportunity to go for a hike. Options range from the well-maintained SC Bull Sluice Trail, to non-maintained, bush-whacking. Given the phenomenal number of well-known, maintained trails in the area, it is always advisable to restrict your activity to those trails and preserve the other locations allowing them to maintain their wild, untouched nature.
Please review our Top-Five in the right hand link column, with options for any level of hiker. If you don't find what you want or need, please see the hiking links for other available options.

MOUNTAIN BIKING
For those wishing to mountain bike there are ample locations throughout Oconee, Macon and Rabun Counties, as well as the surrounding area.

HORSEBACK RIDING
There are numerous options for the horse-oriented person in our area. We have full service stables and Forest Service amenities for the individual who has there own horse, trailer and gear. Please click on the link to the right that meets your needs most appropriately.

FISHING
If you wish to fish, hold on because you will have more options than you can possibly choose from. What type of water do you want? River, creek, lake: take your pick. For some of the best local trout & catfish with no license or limits contact Black Mtn. Trout Farm at 864-647-9700. The links to the right will give you more information on what you will need for your next fishing expedition.

CAMPING/BACKPACKING
Camping is a common activity in this area and there are a multitude of options. Most locations have a multitude of options within their specific campground. Whether you are looking for a location to park your 30' motor home, or a pristine primitive site to get back to nature, this area can meet your needs and desires. The National Forests have many areas designated for camping. Please always follow National Forest Rules and Regulations and practice the "Leave No Trace"
style of camping.
If backpacking is what you long for, again there are many options to meet your needs. Please see our Top Picks to the right. If this does not meet your needs please see the additional listing and good hunting for that perfect route, for your perfect vacation from home.

NATURE CENTERS
The Highlands Biological Station: On 20 acres, it maintains a rhododendron trail as well as one of the finest wildflower "gardens" in the Appalachians. The garden is a series of loop trails through the forest, with plants labeled along the way.
Directions: Either park at the Highlands Nature Center (above) and walk around back of it, or drive around (Sixth Street off Horse Cove Road, turn right at sign) to where the trails actually start at the parking area of the biological station.

The Highlands Nature Center: The center offers daily programs for children and adults, including lectures, nature classes, tours of the botanical gardens, and outings. The center offers exhibits on local archeology, geology, and biology, including live salamanders, snakes, and fish. Fresh wildflower arrangements are available to help visitors identify local plants.

Next door is the Appalachian Environmental Art Center, where one may enroll in classes in nature and landscape photography. Open June-Labor Day, Mon-Sat, phone (704) 526-2623.
Directions: On Horse Cove Road, an extension of East Main Street, in Highlands.