Adventure with us into the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge!
Spend a night on raised platforms above the Okefenokee’s blackwater and paddle its quiet channels. This guided 1-night, 2-day trip includes meals, boats, tents, and expert guides for stargazing and wildlife watching.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
1 night, 2 days
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: expect several hours of relaxed paddling, short portages, and standing on platforms; basic endurance and balance help.
Wildlife
History
The Okefenokee has long been recognized as a distinctive southeastern peatland known locally as the “Land of the Trembling Earth,” and the refuge protects one of the largest intact blackwater wetlands in the region.
Conservation
Platform camping reduces ground impact; follow refuge rules, pack out waste, and minimize lights and noise to protect nocturnal wildlife and dark skies.
Ocmulgee Outdoor Expeditions
Adventure with us into the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge!
Ocmulgee Outdoor Expeditions operates guided paddles, boat shuttle services, and seasonal river events based in Juliette, Georgia. Focusing on recreational access to the Ocmulgee River and Lake Juliette, the business offers a mix of guided experiences — such as Sunset Paddle and Full Moon Float — and practical shuttle routes between popular access points like Juliette River Park, Popes Ferry, Popper's Boat Access, and Hwy 83.
Trips include signature community events such as the Macon Witches Float and the Trick or Treat Halloween Paddle, collaborative gatherings like the Annual Ocmulgee River Paddle with Paddle Board Georgia and Georgia Florida Paddle Boarding, and self-guided options such as Max’s Favorite Float (Hwy 83 to Juliette). Shuttle services support multi-mile paddles including Popes Ferry to Juliette, Juliette to Hwy 83, and Popper’s to Lloyd’s Shoals, with notable scenic features like the shoals at Dames Ferry and the Towaliga River Retreat launch.
Ocmulgee Outdoor Expeditions highlights local connections — suggested post-paddle stops include the Whistle Stop Cafe and Fresh Air BBQ in nearby towns — and provides options suitable for families, beginners, and seasonal paddlers. Featured on The Adventure Collective, the business presents clear route options, event-based paddles, and self-guided floats to help paddlers plan outings on the Ocmulgee River and Lake Juliette.
Location
Juliette, GA
On the Ocmulgee River
Trips Offered
10
Guided and self-guided options
Shuttle Routes
Multiple
Juliette, Popes Ferry, Hwy 83
Seasonal Events
Featured
Witches Float, Full Moon, Halloween
Book guided paddles, shuttle services, or a self-guided float on the Ocmulgee River — secure a spot for seasonal events and curated routes.
Waterproof your kit
Use a dry bag for electronics and extra layers—blackwater paddling guarantees splashes and damp conditions.
Insect preparedness
Bring EPA-approved repellent and a head net for dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
Platform fit matters
Provide tent dimensions in advance so guides can assign the correct platform space.
Stargazing etiquette
Keep lights low and use red LEDs to preserve night vision and minimize disturbance to wildlife and fellow campers.
Dry bag (20L+)
Keeps clothing and electronics dry during paddling and on platforms.
Headlamp with red mode
Hands-free light for night tasks and moving around the platform without disturbing wildlife.
Insect repellent & head net
Essential for comfortable evenings and dawns when biting insects peak.
summer
Insulated sleeping bag
Provides warmth on cool nights; guides recommend season-appropriate ratings.
fall