The New USNWC, Unites States National Whitewater Center, offers  a man-made whitewater river (largest in the world) mountain bike trails, hiking trails, outdoor climbing center and more.  This center is located only 15 minutes from uptown Charlotte and gives you a sense of really being out in the wilderness while you are there. 

The center offers raft trips, Kayak instruction, kayak passes for the experienced boater and more.  It is really a fantastic place to visit, I am a paddler myself, the whitewater is a little pushy in a kayak but is fine for the intermediate to advanced boater.  The rapids are ranked from class II to Class IV.  Come out to the center, I hope to see you on the water!!