American Whitewater purchased the AW Sherwood Horine Take-out on the ultra-classic Watauga Gorge in the 1990’s and continues to manage it with the help of outstanding local volunteers, thanks to donations and membership of Watauga paddlers. Thanks to volunteers like Mike Mayfield the grass gets mowed, and we count on our neighbors and members to ensure the site is visited respectfully. Donations to American Whitewater are encouraged at any time with the words “Watauga Access” in the memo field of your check or online donation to help us cover the taxes and other costs of managing the property.
In 2015-2016 AW assisted local paddlers and partners in purchasing a new put-in at Guy’s Ford, guaranteeing public access to the Watauga! The County also purchased a river access area several miles upstream, and together we are encouraging enjoyment of this incredible river.