Daily admission to Audubon Acres includes water access to South Chickamauga Creek.  Visitors wanting water access must sign a waiver before entering the creek from sanctuary grounds. Due to the rocky creek bottom, water shoes are STRONGLY RECOMMENDED.

South Chickamauga creek makes a wide path through Audubon Acres and numerous access points allow for floating nearly a mile without ever leaving the sanctuary.

Chattanooga Audubon allows:

• Wading (There is always a current in the creek, so standard swimming activities are not practical).
• Tubing
• Kayaking
• Canoeing

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Ford Of Youth

Upper access point at Audubon Acres and primary put in for tubing at the sanctuary.  The shallow waters here make for great wading or fording to trails across the creek.

Swinging Bridge Beach

Halfway point on the creek loop just below the swinging bridge.  A gravel bar makes a great place for picnics and relaxing by the water.  Less current here than at Ford of Youth.

Canoe/Kayak Launch

Immediately after passing under the railroad trestle, look for a set of railroad tie steps on the right bank.  This, our primary boat launch, may be parked next to during business hours.

Explore More Of South Chickamauga Creek

Paddling South Chickamauga Creek

South Chickamauga Creek is a naturally flowing waterway and may contain hazards such as broken glass, underwater debris, and swift currents.  No lifeguard is on duty at Audubon Acres - enter creek at your own risk.  Chattanooga Audubon reserves the right to bar access to the creek through the sanctuary during flooding or other inclement weather.  Alcoholic beverages are not permitted at Audubon Acres and may not be brought through sanctuary grounds.  As a nature sanctuary, fishing is not permitted at Audubon Acres.  Tennessee law requires all paddlers to have a coast guard approved personal flotation device with them and that participants under the age of 13 must wear one while underway (includes floating).  More info here.