McCaysville: Rapid-Onset Joy Outdoorsy border village McCaysville, a quick 20-minute drive from Blue Ridge via State Route 5, is a river town through and through, with its culture driven by rushing water since its mining days in the 1800s. Today, McCaysville’s most precious resource is not copper but adrenaline – with a whitewater rafting industry that draws paddlers of all levels, from all over the world. Thanks to its dam-controlled flow, the Ocoee River offers a continuous stretch of Class III and IV rapids – a roiling, mist-sprayed romp through storied sections like “Humongous” and “Godzilla.” Take a guided half-or full-day river trip with the experienced guides at Rolling Thunder River Company ; whether you’re an absolute beginner or a seasoned rafter, you’ll be in for the ride of your life. Craving a more relaxed river experience? Much of the river is slow and glassy, and Toccoa River Tubing Company puts it within easy reach. Your tube rental includes a life jacket and a ride up the river, so you can float at your own pace back to the car. Picnic stops, shore exploration, and naps in the sun are encouraged. River time is virtually guaranteed to make you ravenous, so take a seat on the patio at Twisted Tomato , where you can bite into 122 #EXPLOREGEORGIA a fresh, fired-to-order Neapolitan pizza. Locals love the Pepe Le Pew pie, with housemade marinara, mozzarella, Parmesan, crumbled meatballs, peppadew peppers, and fresh garlic. Afterward, walk off your meal at the Riverwalk Shops , a bustling alfresco retail center brimming with locally owned boutiques. Pause at Riverwalk Sweets to secure a suitable sugar buzz for the road tomorrow, then head over to Tooneys Music Venue , a great place to see live music on weekends or have an ice-cold beer, anytime. TAKE A PIECE OF GEORGIA HOME WITH YOU Don’t miss Chooch , an eclectic artisan marketplace and oddities shop offering hundreds of unique, only-in-Georgia mementos – each a friendly reminder to stay on “mountain time.” TOCCOA RIVER, MCCAYSVILLE | EXPLORE GEORGIA
Official State Travel Guide 2026 Georgia Official State Travel Guide: Page 122
