Float down the scenic river with Smooth Rapids Outfitters on the 8 Mile Float, a laid-back adventure perfect for all ages. Paddle or relax as you soak in natural beauty and enjoy good company on the water.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
5.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, including families and beginners
Wildlife
History
The river has historically served as a transportation route for local communities since the early 1900s.
Conservation
Smooth Rapids Outfitters emphasizes eco-friendly practices, including minimal waste and respect for wildlife habitats.
Smooth Rapids Outfitters
Float down the scenic river with Smooth Rapids Outfitters on the 8 Mile Float, a laid-back adventure perfect for all ages. Paddle or relax as you soak in natural beauty and enjoy good company on the water.
Smooth Rapids Outfitters is a river outfitter and campground located in McMinnville, Tennessee. The business operates an eight acre campground with river access on the Barren Fork River and offers a range of float trips, rentals, and RV and tent camping. Float options include a six mile medium float that runs about four and a half hours, an eight mile long float that runs about five and a half hours, and a two mile short float which is the only tubing option. A waterfall trip to Burgess Falls is offered but does not meet at Smooth Rapids. All float trips provide necessary gear, and shuttle service is included for trips that begin and end at different ramps. The campground features long RV sites for campers thirty to forty five feet, medium RV sites for campers twenty four to thirty feet, short RV sites for campers up to twenty five feet, and tent camping sites. Campsite amenities include water and electric for RVs, communal fire pits, a shower house and restrooms, corn hole, and firewood for sale. Many visitors enjoy a meal at the nearby restaurant after a float, often ordering a burger mentioned in trip summaries. Smooth Rapids Outfitters presents factual trip details, clear amenities, and accessible river recreation for families and paddlers visiting McMinnville, Tennessee.
Trip summaries include durations, included equipment, shuttle details, and post trip suggestions; booking flexibility and clear site descriptions help visitors plan safe, comfortable river outings at Smooth Rapids Outfitters in McMinnville, Tennessee.
Experiences
8 experiences
Float trips and campsite options
Campground Size
8 acres
Riverside camping on Barren Fork River
Shuttle Service
Included on floats
Return shuttles for multi-ramp trips
Camp Amenities
Water, electric, shower
Fire pits, restrooms, and cornhole
Check availability for floats, shuttle service, rentals, and campsites to plan a river day or overnight stay in McMinnville.
Stay Hydrated
Bring water and sunscreen to enjoy the float comfortably under the sun.
Wear a Life Jacket
Ensure your safety by properly fitting the provided life jacket during the float.
Arrive Early
Get to Pepper Branch Park early to secure parking and gear up without rush.
Bring a Waterproof Bag
Use a waterproof bag to keep valuables dry during your float.
Sunscreen
Protects your skin from sun exposure during the float.
summer
Hat and Sunglasses
Adds extra protection against sun and glare.
summer
Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the float.
summer
Dry Bag
Keeps your valuables dry.
summer