Paddle river scenery, then relax at a brewery
2 hours
Boats, paddles, life jackets
Explore the Historic French Broad River at an easygoing pace, taking in its natural sounds and scenery. End your outing with food truck and craft beer options at Oskar Blues Brewery.
Cancel 7 or more days before your trip for a full refund. Cancel 1–6 days before for a 50% refund. No refund for day-of no-shows. River trips operate rain or shine. Receive a full refund if the operator cancels due to thunder or lightning, unsafe air or water temperatures, high winds, or high water levels.
Yes. All participants must be able to swim.
Wear shoes (no flip flops) and wear a life jacket at all times while on the river.
Yes, you may bring your own if it is level III Coast Guard approved.
Oskar Blues Brewery, 342 Mountain Industrial Dr, Brevard, NC 28712
This family-owned outfitter has clearly mastered the art of making everyone feel at home on the French Broad River. The staff consistently earns praise for being friendly, professional, and genuinely passionate about what they do. Guides like Jeremy, Patrick, Gavin, Ty, and Bret get specific shoutouts for their patience and expertise, particularly with first-timers who've never touched a fly rod or sat in a kayak. Multiple reviewers mention feeling confident and comfortable even as complete beginners, which speaks volumes about the instruction quality. Beyond the guided trips, the self-guided kayak floats are a major draw. The three-hour paddle seems to be the sweet spot for a relaxed, scenic journey where you'll likely spot deer, osprey, herons, and kingfishers along the way. Equipment stays in excellent condition, and the logistics run smoothly from start to finish. The base has evolved into more than just a put-in point too, with a taproom, coffee truck, and food trucks making it easy to turn your river day into a full experience. Repeat visitors keep coming back, which tells you everything you need to know about consistency here.
I loved this place! From ease of booking to customer service. All of it was 10/10. The floats were clean and well inflated. Inside was stocked with everything you could need. I didn’t know, but they check you in and out of the water. So, because I didn’t give my name, and left, they called me to make sure I was safe and out of the river. I appreciate the above and beyond safety. It made me feel great to know if something happened they would have known. The river was beautiful, crisp and clear. Overall an incredible experience and we will absolutely be back!
Samantha Floyd
June 26, 2026
I loved this place! From ease of booking to customer service. All of it was 10/10. The floats were clean and well inflated. Inside was stocked with everything you could need. I didn’t know, but they check you in and out of the water. So, because I didn’t give my name, and left, they called me to make sure I was safe and out of the river. I appreciate the above and beyond safety. It made me feel great to know if something happened they would have known. The river was beautiful, crisp and clear. Overall an incredible experience and we will absolutely be back!
Samantha Floyd
June 26, 2026
Choose your craft for a self-guided paddling outing
Explore Lake Jocassee or Lake Keowee with room to relax on the water
Explore Lake Jocassee or Lake Keowee from a spacious pontoon
Float 8 miles of gentle Class I water at your own pace
Cool off on a family-friendly French Broad River float
Cast for hard-fighting smallmouth from a guide-rowed fishing raft
A relaxed Class I river route for first-time and experienced paddlers
Explore 47 acres of vines and enjoy a glass of wine
Glide across Lake Jocassee at your own pace