Wildwater was founded by a family who wanted to share their passion for the outdoors with others. Jim and Jeanette Greiner founded Wildwater in 1971 on the Chattooga River, pioneering the first commercial rafting company in the Southeast. All 4 kids, Becky & Beverly (twins), Jeff, and Jamie worked for Wildwater in the early years answering the phones and taking reservations, guiding on the river, managing river operations, running the marketing department, and developing new product. Jeff and Becky are still active in the business as well as Becky’s husband, Jack, the CEO of Wildwater.
While running Wildwater, the 2nd generation of Greiners pioneered the first canopy tours in the Southeast when they opened Nantahala Gorge Canopy Tours, now with 5 locations.
Al and Trey Barnett
The 3rd generation is also making their mark on the business. Jack and Becky’s daughter, Cricket, is the Nantahala Operations Manager, and her husband, Trey, a 2nd generation Wildwater family member, is the Nantahala Region Marketing Rep and Church Account Specialist. Trey’s dad, Al, still works on the Chattooga!
Other family members have worked for Wildwater in various positions over the last 44 years and continue to contribute to the overall goals of Wildwater.
Starting in our 45th season in 2015, Wildwater is still a family owned and operated company. We love our careers and enjoy bringing the outdoors to our Guests and their families. Our extended family includes all the Wildwater Team, all those individuals that make this possible! We hope that you will bring your friends and family to visit us and see why we love what we do!
Since 1971 Wildwater has expanded to five different locations, with many new outdoor activities and lodging! Here are just some of the fun adventures you can enjoy with our Wildwater family: rafting, ziplining, stand-up paddleboarding, high ropes/challenge courses, and lake kayak tours. Questions about booking a trip? Call us at 866.319.8870!