Experience the thrill of White Water at Burgess Falls with guided trips from Smooth Rapids Outfitters—perfect for adventure seekers eager to tackle Tennessee’s iconic waterfalls and rapids.
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Difficulty
challenging
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required; paddlers should be comfortable with water and basic paddle skills.
Wildlife
History
Burgess Falls has been a protected site since 1964, and its volcanic origins date back millions of years, shaping the dramatic landscape.
Conservation
Guides emphasize Leave No Trace principles, ensuring this pristine environment remains for future adventurers.
Smooth Rapids Outfitters
Experience the thrill of White Water at Burgess Falls with guided trips from Smooth Rapids Outfitters—perfect for adventure seekers eager to tackle Tennessee’s iconic waterfalls and rapids.
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.
Wear suitable footwear
Use sturdy water shoes to prevent slips and protect your feet when navigating rocky sections.
Check water levels
Ensure water conditions are safe for paddling, especially during recent rain events.
Guide experience
Opt for a guided adventure with trained guides for safety and local insight.
Pack rain gear
Bring waterproof clothing to stay dry and comfortable during unexpected splashes.
Quick-dry clothing
Keeps you comfortable and dry after getting wet on the water.
Personal flotation device (PFD)
Mandatory safety gear to ensure buoyancy in rapid waters.
Waterproof camera
Capture the stunning waterfalls and action-packed moments.
Sun protection
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses keep you protected during sunny days.
summer