Must read: if you make a reservation online it does not guarantee you a trip for the day you book or a time slot. It'll save you time when you get there but you'll still have to wait. It's really first come, first served. And if you're thinking about waiting until their last trip of the day when the sun is hottest, you'll be waiting with lots of others who are planning the same. I suggest getting there an hour early too ... ie, if you want to be in the water at 1:30, arrive by 12:30. Ok, now to my review ...
So, I've driven past this place for years but never tried it bc we typically do tubing further North just because the water is clearer. However, opted to stay closer due to time constraints. We did book our reservation online and got there for the last drop in around 2:30.
Parking here can fill up fast, so be prepared for that. It's a huge gravel lot with a sand play area, picnic tables, concessions and bathrooms. You have the option of a 2 hour or 4 hour float. 2 hour is currently unavailable due to construction at their drop in point but cost is $10. 4 hour is around $23. You also pay a Parks/Rec fee.
You can choose between an open tube and a closed bottom tube (I believe the closed bottom tubes aren't available until mid June). You can also add in a paddle for $2 and connector straps for a $1. I'd highly suggest the connector straps for not only connecting tubes, but also using them to hold gear. Also, a paddle is certainly useful to navigate around things in the river. Bring a dry sack too. Coolers are allowed and you can bring cans. Make sure to bring a trash bag for your stuff too. Also, buy a plastic phone protector that floats!
We did the 4 hour trip. Basically, you load up into a bus and it takes your group (plus tubes and life jackets) to the drop in point. They go over some rules to follow and also tell you where the end point is (pretty simple, it's right before the second bridge on the left ... you'll see their staff with Orange shirts too).
The water will be COLD, no matter the temperature outside. I've yet to get in the Chattahoochee and ever feel comfy, even after running 15 miles. The water in the Chattahoochee is released from the bottom of the Buford Dam so it's constantly around 50 degrees. However, it's very therapeutic! This portion of the river has no rapids and is easy going. It's pretty deep in some spots too.
We had a BLAST! It was more like 3 and a half hours, and it went by fast. My only complaint was having to pee and not wanting to get out of my tube (there are sand embankments to pull over on). Highly suggest this company and river route! Jordan helped us with an issue as well and went above and beyond to resolve it, plus went an extra mile. He literally turned our experience into an amazing one, and made all our kids happy.
We look forward to coming back with a bigger group! read more