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Grimes Canoe Base

The spring-fed Buffalo River is a world away from Tennessees urban areas.  It meanders through several rural middle-Tennessee counties 1 1/2 hours south-west of Nashville. In Perry County near Flatwoods you will find Grimes Canoe Base.  The base is open from April 1 through November 1.

The Tennessee Department of Tourism’s Official Vacation Guide lists the Buffalo River as Class I & II river with regular waves and occasional rapids, meaning it is suitable for  beginners.  Grimes is staffed year round by ranger Wayne Hamm, who can help advise you on trips that will suit your group. Trips can be arranged to last from two hours to five days.

There are over 110 miles of river available for canoeing on the Buffalo River. Camping is available at the Canoe Base, or along the river.

If you camp at the Canoe Base, two person tents on platforms are available. Each tent is equipped with cots. You may also bring your own tent if you prefer.

Showers and bathrooms are available along with a Trading Post for snacks,T-shirts and patches.

RATES

Middle Tennessee Council Scout Units

$16.00 per day per crew (2) for Scouts and Leaders if paid prior to arrival.

$21.00 per day if not pre-registered.

$5.00 per night for a tent on a platform.

$5.00 extra for third person in the canoe. (This covers the extra paddle and life jacket).

Groups other than
 Middle Tennessee Scout Units

$21.00 per day per crew if paid prior to arrival.

$26.00 per day if not pre-registered.

(Group rate of $18.00 per canoe for ten canoes.)

$6.00 per night for a tent on a platform.

$6.00 extra for third person in the canoe. (This covers the extra paddle and life jacket).

$1.00 per night charge for using own tent

prices are subject to change

Cub Scout information

Cub Scout participants must be at least 8 years old. Cub/adult ratio for outing is one-to-one with an adult in each canoe. Cubs must have had at least 3 hours of flat-water paddling instruction prior to their initial river outing.  No overnight trips are allowed. All canoes must be off the water before sunset.  Cub activity is not permitted on any whitewater, including Class I. Only river courses selected and supervised by council personnel can be used for Cub river outings. Canoes, paddles and PFDs must be supplied or specifically approved by the council.

Directions to Grimes Canoe Base - From Nashville take 1-40 West (towards Memphis). Exit at Waverly/Linden - Highway 13 (Exit 143). Turn left (South) on Highway 13. Grimes Canoe Base is 30 miles from the Interstate on your left. There is a wooden sign marking the entrance. Mile Marker 4 on Highway 13.

OR

Take Highway 100 West. (You will go through Fairview, East Hickman, Centerville, Pleasantville).  Turn left (South) at the intersection of Highway 100 and Highway 13 in Linden.  Grimes Canoe Base is on the left approximately 8 miles.

OR

From Huntsville or Florence, AL, go to Waynesboro, TN and take Hwy 13 North for 18 miles.