Frequently Asked Questions

How many people participate? Each year, about 300 people participate, ranging in age from 4 to 74. Most of these adventurers are “thru-paddlers” traveling all seven days. A smaller number chose Paddle Georgia Lite, our weekend-only option. This year, we expect 300 thru-paddlers and will offer limited space for Paddle Georgia Lite participants.

Can I go for just part of the trip? Yes. Our Paddle Georgia Lite package includes the first two days of the trip (June 21-22) and will be limited depending on how many thru-paddlers register for the trip. Paddle Georgia will accept up to 300 thru-paddlers. Space availability for Paddle Georgia Lite will be based on thru-paddler registration. No other day-paddler registrations will be available. Paddle Georgia Lite registration will begin on April 15.

What does my registration fee include?Paddle Georgia thru-paddler registration fee includes a T-shirt, boat decal, pocket-size dry box, a ticket to the kick-off feast and party and the journey’s end feast and celebration, a year’s membership in Georgia River Network, camping with bath facilities, shuttles to campsites, maps and river descriptions, entertainment, activities, educational programs and safety services. Paddle Georgia Lite registration includes all of the above except tickets to kick-off feast and journey’s end feast.

How much does it cost?Paddle Georgia thru-paddler registration fees range from $195 to $130. Paddle Georgia Lite registration fees range from $90-$55. ***These fees may be reimbursed if the participant garners more than $400 in Canoe-a-thon pledges.

What’s a Canoe-a-thon?Like a walk-a-thon, Paddle Georgia’s Canoe-a-thon will raise money for Georgia River Network and local efforts to protect the Flint River. Each participant is asked to solicit donations on a per-mile basis. Those participants generating more than $400 may choose to have their registration fee reimbursed. The top money earners in the Canoe-a-thon will receive select prizes from our many sponsors.

Do I need to be an experienced paddler? No. You don’t need to be an expert, but you do need a little experience. If you are new to paddling, we ask that you take the basic canoeing instruction class offered on the day prior to the journey’s launch. The pace and distance of each day’s journey and the difficulty of the river is generally suitable for novice paddlers.

What do I need to bring? You are responsible for bringing a canoe or kayak, paddles and a personal floatation device for each participant. Paddle Georgia does not supply or rent boats. See the Canoe Rentals page for a list of outfitters to secure your rental boat for the week. Also bring standard camping gear including a tent and personal items. Camp gear is limited to 40 pounds and two bags per person. No camp stoves or fuel are permitted.

Where do we camp? Tent camping will be by the river or at nearby facilities such as a local high school. Indoor or sheltered camping is available each night for those without tents. Indoor shower and toilet facilities will be available at most campsites.

Do I need to bring food? Breakfast and dinner will be provided for a fee at each campsite, and sack lunches will be provided for a fee. Participants may choose to bring their own lunch food and snacks for river travel, but cooking is not permitted at the campsites and access to ice is not guaranteed. A shuttle will be available at most campsites to take participants to select nearby restaurants and stores for fast pick up of food items. A menu and meal plan registration form will be mailed to you after you register. Participants are strongly encouraged to make use of the meals provided at campsite.

Where do I leave my car? Paddle Georgia encourages thru-paddlers (those paddling the whole week) to take advantage of the Kick-off Day and River’s End shuttles provided at a nominal additional fee. The Kick-Off Day shuttle allows participants to leave their vehicles in Montezuma on June 20 and be shuttled along with boats and gear to the trip’s starting point near Thomaston. The River’s End shuttle allows participants to leave their vehicles at the trip’s start point and be shuttled along with boats and gear back to the starting point on June 28. During the week, you will not need your vehicle because free shuttle vehicles will be provided between river and campsites and nearby amenities each day. Your camping gear will also be shuttled between campsites each day, allowing you to travel light on the river. Those who choose not to use the provided shuttles must make their own arrangements. Shuttle services and parking areas are also provided for Paddle Georgia Lite paddlers.

Can I fish during Paddle Georgia? Yes, but you are responsible for obtaining appropriate licenses.

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