Many rafting companies are corporately owned and operated by employees who have no vested interest in the success of the company or the satisfaction of its clients. Although Appalachian Rivers Outpost of Carolina Outfitters, Inc. is incorporated, it is a family enterprise. If you need to contact the owner about any issue, you will find him in the parking lot!

Beginning in the ‘70’s with four boats, a van and a trailer, Appalachian Rivers Outpost of Carolina Outfitters, Inc. now boasts a fleet of nearly 100 rafts and funyaks, a location very close to the put-in and a continued dedication to quality service and reasonable rates. Here are a few of the features that we have to offer:

A river shop with river shoes, t-shirts, waterproof cameras, caps and water bottles. We also have wetsuits and neoprene booties for rent at a modest rate. In addition to our softwear, we also feature a variety of “munchies”.

A covered picnic and camping shelter with lots of picnic tables. We are also able to arrange catered hot meals for your group to enjoy after (or before) your river trip. If you desire to bring your own picnic meal, you may use this facility at no charge.

A bunk house is located on the lower floor below the picnic shelter for those desiring to spend the night. We can accommodate up to 24 in the bunk house which is subdivided into four rooms with comfortable bedding for six in each room. The bunk house also features a restroom.

Low-cost, full-service rafting — Because we’re a smaller, family-operated outfitter,Appalachian Rivers Outpost of Carolina Outfitters, Inc. can provide all the services the “big guys” offer, at a much lower price.  We invite you to compare our rates with any other full-service Nantahala rafting company.

Equipment — To provide the safest, most enjoyable whitewater rafting in NC, we use only the highest quality equipment. We’ve upgraded our entire raft fleet with "self-bailing" rafts, so there are no bailing buckets or frequents stops to dump water out of your boat. Sturdy paddles and clean life vests are also provided at no additional charge.

Safety training — When whitewater rafting, spills can happen. And if you do enter the water, it’s important to understand how to safely handle yourself. At put-in, our experienced guides thoroughly review all safety procedures with every paddler, regardless of their experience.

Wetsuits & protective gear — Like all outfitters, we paddle rain or shine. And if it’s wet or a little chilly, we’ve got you covered with nylon splash gear, provided free of charge. We also rent wet suits for $6 and neoprene booties for $3. That’s about half of what most outfitters charge; and some raft companies offer no protective gear at all.

Funyaks (aka “Duckies”) are inflatable kayaks designed for one or two paddlers — perfect for teenagers looking for a greater challenge after they've been rafting a few times. Single duckies are available for $26.00 and two-person duckies for $36.00.