About Whitewater Center

Since 2001, Whitewater has been creating opportunities to bring people together outdoors at the U.S. National Whitewater Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Whitewater Center is designed and operated as an outdoor center offering over 30 different recreational activities. Every element and activity is focused on supporting an all-encompassing experience around the outdoor lifestyle. Additionally, the Whitewater Center hosts international competitions in a variety of sports along with numerous festivals and events on a recurring basis.

The Whitewater Center is currently comprised of over 1,300 acres of protected land offering 50 miles of trail and access to the Catawba River and Long Creek. The Center’s goal is to continue to increase the size of these protected lands and promote even greater access through land acquisition and natural resource management. Whether you visit to ride 50 miles of single-track trail or simply enjoy eating a meal by the whitewater course, we are certain that you will meet new people and connect with old friends in a shared experience outside.

Mission Statement

The U.S. National Whitewater Center is a North Carolina 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to facilitating and promoting access to the outdoors for everyone. The mission of the U.S. National Whitewater Center is to build stronger communities by:

  • Promoting healthy and active lifestyles
  • Developing environmental stewardship
  • Encouraging family and civic interaction

Whitewater’s mission is rooted in the belief that we all share a genetic code that compels us to play outside and share these experiences with others. This mission is accomplished through promoting access and opportunities to play outside and bring people together. Our approach is simple: Make it compelling and easy to engage with nature and invite others to join.