Discover the gentle thrills of Georgia's Ocmulgee River with the Guided Popes Class I Adventure River Tour. Perfect for beginners, this 5-6 hour paddle combines easy rapids, scenic views, and a relaxing shuttle ride.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Hang tight — photos are loading
This usually takes just a second.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5–6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in moderate physical condition able to paddle continuously for several hours, but no advanced fitness is required.
Wildlife
History
The Ocmulgee River was historically vital to Native American cultures and early settlers for transportation and trade routes.
Conservation
The tour operators practice Leave No Trace principles to minimize any environmental impact on the river ecosystem.
Ocmulgee Outdoor Expeditions
Discover the gentle thrills of Georgia's Ocmulgee River with the Guided Popes Class I Adventure River Tour. Perfect for beginners, this 5-6 hour paddle combines easy rapids, scenic views, and a relaxing shuttle ride.
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.
Wear a life jacket at all times
Even on Class I rapids, wearing a life vest is essential for safety throughout the paddle.
Bring waterproof phone protection
Use a waterproof holder to capture photos and videos without risking damage to your device.
Check weather forecasts before your trip
Avoid paddling during storms or high winds for safer and more enjoyable river conditions.
Arrive early for the safety briefing
Timely arrival ensures you don't miss important instructions and gives you time to prepare your gear.
Lightweight water shoes
Protect your feet from rocky riverbeds while keeping them cool and dry quickly.
summer
Quick-dry clothing
Stay comfortable and avoid chafing as you paddle and splash through the shoals.
summer
Wide-brimmed hat
Provides sun protection during the exposed stretches on the water.
summer
Reusable water bottle
Keep hydrated during your 5-6 hour trip along the river.