North Carolina whitewater, Buck Creek McDowell county, Lake Tahoma Dam to US Route 70 section whitewater kayaking, rafting, and paddling information.   CLASS I-II     3.2 miles   The wonderful North Carolina scenery and the cool fresh water will make you feel great. Whitewater rafting and kayaking in North Carolina is often easier than elsewhere, so don't forget that a lot of the rivers in this state are suitable for beginners. There aren’t any hotels right nearby but if you're willing to drive a short distance then no problem and if you make reservations in advance you're all set. This stretch is short so it's     not like you're gonna spend hours on the river in one stretch. The campgrounds here at Buck Creek are pretty good. The beautiful Great Smoky Mountains scenery is an added bonus. This section of Buck Creek is 3.2 miles long and has been rated as a class I-II section by American Whitewater. The Lake Tahoma Dam to US Route 70 stretch is the only paddling stretch along Buck Creek. Getting your paddling muscles activated and just being out on the river for a while are great reasons to come. Briefly about the general area: