Oconee Outfitters hosts a popular community event called the Full Moon Float.
Oconee Outfitters is owned and operated by Adam Heagy. The business is known for kayak rentals, bicycle repair centers and kayak excursions. The Full Moon Float is one excursion that the company offers primarily from April through October.
“The idea came from a small group I was in that works on a water trail project on the Oconee River. We are trying to get a designated water trail on the Oconee River, or what we're calling the lower Oconee River,” said Heagy. “We decided to take a break at one point and so about six of us met up and we went paddling under the full moon. It was an enjoyable experience.”
This was a reintroduction for Heagy to paddling at night. He expressed that he forgot how serene and beautiful the lake can be at night. He describes it as a different atmosphere with a temptation of risk but the solace of the night.
“After I enjoyed it so much, I decided it was something I could market and encourage others to take part in,” said Heagy. “It gives you a different perspective of the Oconee River. It enhances the experience of kayaking when you paddle at night.”
Heagy admitted that some customers worry about the dangers related to paddling in the dark but explained that the river is very calm at night and headlamps are provided for everyone. In addition, there is safety in numbers as the excursion is led in a large group.
“Under the light of the full moon, you can see a lot. We encourage people to paddle without the lights on, unless they see another boat coming down the river,” said Heagy. “It helps to maintain night vision and keep bugs away. The excursion is cooler if you paddle in night vision mode and really experience seeing in the dark.”
Oconee Outfitters has hosted the excursion for about five years. Each excursion can range from a group of 10 to higher numbers such as 65. The business encourages everyone to bring their own kayaks but does have some available to rent if needed.
“Our customers are typically excited to get onto the river,” said Heagy. “Newcomers may have apprehension about paddling in the dark but by the end of the trip, they always say, “Wow, I’m glad I did that.”
To check when the next Full Moon Float will be, Heagy advises to visit their Facebook page or join their newsletter on their website oconeeoutfitters.com for advance notice.
“This is one of our longer running events and I just think it's a good opportunity for us to bring people to Milledgeville and show them a little bit of what our town has to offer,” said Heagy.