From Native Heritage to Global Adventure
Early Origins & Native Heritage
Long before the roar of rapids and the splash of paddles, the river now known as the Ocoee was honored and lived on by Native American tribes who recognized its life-giving waters and bountiful natural gifts. The name “Ocoee” derives from the Cherokee word “Uwagohi”, referencing the wild passion flower that once bloomed along its banks.
With the arrival of European settlers, the river’s role expanded: fertile banks supported agriculture and river transport, while the surrounding forests supplied timber for a growing nation.
Early Twentieth Century: Power & Transformation
1911 — The Eastern Tennessee Power Company began construction of Dam #1, which created what is now Parksville Lake and began altering the river’s flow in profound ways.
1913 — Dam #2 was constructed, later becoming the launch point for what’s now known as the Middle Ocoee rafting section.
1939 — The federal Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) purchased the power system controlling Dams #1 and #2, and began work constructing Dam #3.
1942 — Dam #3 was completed, marking the creation of the Upper Ocoee section that today draws both rafters and kayakers alike.
Conservation & Recreation Era
June 14, 1920 — The federal government designated the surrounding area as part of the Cherokee National Forest, acknowledging its ecological value and opening it to formal protection.
1972 — The Hiwassee Scenic River State Park was established, safeguarding a 23-mile corridor of the adjacent Hiwassee River and solidifying the region’s role in scenic-river conservation.
The Rise of Whitewater Adventure
1976 — A rockslide disrupted the existing water-diversion system (including a wooden flume), freeing the Ocoee’s rapids in their raw form and inviting adventurous rafters with surplus gear to test the waters.
1977 — Commercial rafting companies began operating on the Ocoee, and the TVA agreed to a scheduled water release to support recreational use. Rafting on the Ocoee had officially begun.
1983 — The park encompassing both the Hiwassee and Ocoee was renamed the Hiwassee Ocoee Scenic River State Park, reflecting the joint importance of both waterways.
Global Recognition & Legacy
1996 — The Upper Ocoee made history by hosting the canoe slalom events of the 1996 Summer Olympics, becoming the first (and to date only) natural river course used in Olympic slalom competition.
Also in 1996, the Ocoee Whitewater Center opened, enhancing the region’s infrastructure for both competition and public recreation.
Modern Governance & Revival
2017 — The Tennessee General Assembly established the Ocoee River Recreation and Economic Development Fund Act, creating a fund and board to oversee partnerships between the State of Tennessee, TVA, and the US Forest Service for managing commercial rafting and river access.
2020 — The book The Whitewater Wars by David Brown was published, chronicling the efforts to secure consistent water releases and protect whitewater recreation on the Ocoee and its sister river, the Gauley River.
2022 — A tragic fire destroyed the Ocoee Whitewater Center on April 26, marking a significant loss for the community and recreation industry.
2023 — On June 15, the US Forest Service announced plans to rebuild the Whitewater Center, signaling the river’s ongoing commitment to adventure and regeneration.
2025 — The park system officially split into two separate entities — the Ocoee River State Park and the Hiwassee Scenic River State Park — allowing more focused resources and dedicated management for each river corridor.
Looking Ahead
From its Native American roots to its Olympic spotlight and ongoing conservation, the Ocoee River’s story is a vibrant tapestry of transformation. Whether you’re seeking whitewater thrills, scenic floats, or simply a deeper connection with nature, the Ocoee represents more than a destination — it’s a legacy in motion. Ocoee River Corridor