Chattooga,

Section 3 - Earls Ford to Route 76 Bridge

Photo#3016

Gauge Information

River Description

Gauge info:

The online gauge reads differently than the paddler's gauge on the US 76 Bridge. Most local paddlers refer to the bridge gauge.

The online gauge reads about .15 higher than the bridge gauge at 2 feet, about .25 higher below two feet and the same at about 2.8 feet.

Many long stretches of Section 3 are wide and shallow at low water and this can make for a long day on the river. At levels below 1.8 or so on the bridge is it scrapy. At levels of about 1.2 on the internet guage it can be intolerable. See alternative river itineraries below.

This section can certainly be run above 3', by experienced paddlers familar with Section 3. Pay particular attention to areas like Sandy Ford at high water.

River Info:

See also Section 4.

Note: as of 3/30/2001 the logjam to the right at Sandy Ford island is now open and passable. Some logs remain, use caution.

Shuttle Directions: From the US Highway 76 access proceed east on US 76 into South Carolina for about 2 miles to the first paved road on the left. This will be Chattooga Ridge Road (you will see a sign to Oconee State Park, follow it). Turn left here.

Proceed several miles to the four way stop sign and turn left on Earl's Ford Road. Proceed to the end of this road and into the Earl's Ford Parking area. You will see the registration box and sign on the left.

There are many variations to a Section 3 itinerary including access points at Thrifts Ferry, Fall Creek, and Sandy Ford.. More info to come.

Boaters can also put in on Warwoman Creek. or Whetstone Creek.

Another popular option is to put in at Thrifts Ferry about 2 miles above Bull Sluice and the Highway 76 Bridge, and takeout at Woodall Shoals (See Section 4 of the Chattooga River for more information on this part of the river). At Woodall Shoals portage left on the big rock or run rar right (Georgia Side of the river).