How to "Shoot the Hooch" in Atlanta

Tubing down the Chattahoochee River in Atlanta has long been a favorite summer pastime. From 1969 to 1980, the Ramblin’ Raft Race was a wild party on the water with makeshift floats and over 300,000 attendees.

In 1978, the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area was created by President Carter to preserve the ecosystem. The National Park-managed section of the river stretches nearly 50 miles of the over 400-mile body of water that spans Alabama and Georgia.

The race was canceled in 1980 after complaints from local residents. Since then, tubing has continued, but with increased oversight in regards to safety and littering. It continues to be a popular activity, especially on holiday weekends.

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Where to Shoot the Hooch

The Chattahoochee River runs through the state. Tubing is offered to the north in Helen as well as through the metro area south of Buford Dam. But the most popular stretches are around Smyrna and Sandy Springs, northwest of Atlanta.

Different sections have varying water flow levels and rapids, as well as things to see along the way. It can also take any number of hours, depending on the daily conditions and if you stop along the way at one of the many sand bars.

There are both official NPS access points, where parking is by permit, plus public parks that have places where you can put in tubes for free. Keep in mind that some areas, like Cochran Shoals, don’t have boat ramps or easy ways to get in.

Powers Island to Paces Mill is a nice, laid-back stretch, as is Johnson’s Ferry to Powers Island. Take a look at the official map to decide which route is best for you.

Logistics and How to Shoot the Hooch

Atlanta Tubing Outfitters

Atlanta has a handful of outfitters that operate seasonal Chattahoochee River tube rentals if you just want to show up and go. Nantahala Outdoor Center is the main one in the popular stretch of the river.

They charge about $25, which includes your tubes and cooler tube, life jacket rental, and shuttle service back to your parked car. River Tubing is another, located in Duluth, that charges $10.

How to DIY Shoot the Hooch

You can also organize your own tubing excursion on the Chattahoochee River. It just requires a bit more advanced planning. The first is how to get to and from the start and endpoints. You can either drive two cars, placing one at each end to shuttle back and forth.

Or you can drive to the endpoint and Uber back to the beginning, leaving someone at the start with the tubes to avoid traveling with them. In either case, make sure you keep track of both sets of keys (and keep them dry!).

You should also bring your own floats. While those flamingo floats are cute, they are hard to sit on for long periods, especially when you hit the occasional rock or rapid.

Instead, choose a tube or float that is made of thick plastic. The cheapest tube isn’t necessarily the best, as you’re at risk of puncture. I’ve had good luck with this one from Walmart. And remember to blow up tubes before you go to save time with an air compressor or foot pump.

What to Bring to Shoot the Hooch

For a great day on the river, you’ll need a few essentials:

Waterproof phone case
Cooler (NOT a single-use styrofoam one)
Sunglasses
Sunscreen: don’t forget to put it on your legs
Hat
Sun shirt
Water shoes
Waterproof bag
Rope or bungee cord
Map (optional)

You also might want to bring snacks, water, and adult beverages. We recommend one of the many Georgia craft beer options, which you can purchase at nearby gas stations. Just remember that glass is not allowed.

A Word on Safety and Littering

Everyone under age 13 must wear a lifejacket when tubing. For those over 13, the rental companies will require you to have a lifejacket with you, even if you aren’t wearing it. Most people use it to connect their tubes into a flotilla. There is also a lifejacket rental station near Thornton Shoals.

There are a handful of rock outcroppings where people jump off onto the water below, but there have been many accidents (and deaths) here. Think twice before trying it.

Sunscreen and sun protection are encouraged, as you can quickly forget how much sun you’ve been exposed to. Be sure to keep your distance from wildlife, specifically birds.

And please, please, please clean up after yourself. It’s terrible to see chip bags and cans floating in this river. Save your cans in a trash bag to dispose of once you’ve returned to land.

Additional Tips

Before you go, check the weather forecast to ensure that conditions are good. Also, check the water levels and bacteria levels to stay safe.

You’ll also need to pay attention to where you need to get out. You can keep an eye on the map on your phone or remember the mile marker signs. Some of the outfitters place a person in the river to alert tubers when to get out.

Establish a designated driver in advance, as you don’t want to wait until you reach the parking lot to decide. Have access to keys for the car at the end when you’re ready to leave. It can also be nice to keep dry clothes and towels in the secondary car.