Nantahala Family Weekend
September 15-17, 2023
Possibly the best-loved river in the Southeast, the “Nanty” is a captivating introduction to Whitewater. A Class II-III dam-controlled river, it’s considered ideal for both the first-timer and experienced rafter. Families are particularly fond of this river. In the midst of the beautiful Nantahala National Forest, the Nantahala is a nationally recognized river of recreation. On any day in the summer, a colorful parade of rafts, kayaks, canoes and ducks (inflatable kayaks) can be seen floating on downstream through the “land of the noonday sun.” With over 20 named rapids on the Nantahala there are plenty of waves for rafters to crash through, and as many flat-water opportunities for simply floating and quietly appreciating nature’s display.
| When | September 15-17, 2023 |
| Who | The entire family. The 5th Grade Webelo II’s from Pack 1 and their families will also join us. All 1st year scouts and Webolos must be accompanied by an adult. Children must weigh 60 pounds or be 7 years old to raft. Second year scouts and over are encouraged to attend on their own even if their families are unable to attend just as any other scout camping weekend. |
| Where | Camp at Appletree Group Campsite C |
| Departure | Leave from the scout hut at 4:00 Friday or meet up at Appletree Friday evening. |
| Return | Sunday around 1pm |
| Attire | River attire is swimsuits, t-shirts, and something for your feet that can get wet and strapped on (flip-flops not allowed). PFDs are provided by the outfitter. |
| Cost | Camping & Lunch Saturday – $10 per person or $25 per family 6 or 8 person Raft $39 / person Single ducky $44 / person Double ducky $44 / person |
| Housing | Tents. The camp site contains showers, restrooms, drinking water, and a covered pavilion. |
| Food | Each person or family is responsible for their own food & drinks except for lunch on Saturday which is provided. Scout stoves and grills will be furnished. Let the scouts show you their cooking skills! |
| Directions to Nantahala Outdoor Center | Take I-40 West from I-26 West toward Knoxville, TN. Take exit 27 onto US 74 West toward Waynesville. The Nantahala is located 50 miles down this road. Stay on 74 West. 8 miles west of Bryson City, the 4-lane highway you are on will split into two 2-lane roads. Stay on 74, which is the left lane. Go another 5 miles. On the last descent you will see a yellow caution sign on the right indicating you are entering the Nantahala Gorge. Just after the sign you will see the Nantahala River. For raft trips: Turn right across the concrete bridge spanning the river. Check-in is to the left after you cross the bridge. |
| Directions to Appletree Campground | Take US 74/19 west past the Nantahala Center entrance and continue up stream to the Nantahala River Launch Site. Turn left on SR 1310 (Wayah Rd.). Go about 8 miles and turn right onto SR 1401 (Junaluska Rd.). Go approximately 2.5 miles, and the campground entrance is on the right. The Ranger’s Station phone number is 828-524-6441, After hours gate code is 8018. Tim Cell: 864-415-2373. Cell coverage is very spotty in this area. Driving time is about 3 hours. |
| Inclement weather | There is no inclement weather in scouting. We go rain or shine. |
Please complete the form below by Thursday August 31st indicating your choices. Cancel 4-13 days prior to the trip and may get a full or partial refund depending on how many cancellations take place in the group. Cancellations made 3 days (Wednesday-Friday before we leave) or less prior to the reservation are non-refundable.