Reddit mentions of Portable 12 Volt DC Mini Air Inflator / Deflator Electric Pump for Pool Tubes V1

Under an hour drive from Charlotte, the Catawba is a good starting point but better options exist in Columbia SC or elsewhere in NC (Green River, Deep Creek, French Broad)

Floating can be a wonderful activity for hot weekends, the Catawba is pretty warm so don't expect a huge cool off.

If you want to make a go of it once or twice a year, DIY and save the $20/person charge of companies.

Some suggestions to get you started:

• Inflatable raft Can be found in Walmart, Dick's etc . . get an extra for your cooler.
  
• Portable air compressor helpsCan also be found at local big box
  
• A smaller cooler or two to fit whatever you need, snacks beverages and more . . no glass, no littering, no alcohol on land!
  
• A dry bag or two are essential for phones, keys, etc
  
• A patch kit
  
• Bungie cord and paracord come in handy
  
• Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen
  
• Water
  
  Drop your gear and most of the party here, your put in spot- Catawba River Access, Fort Mill Dam
  
  Leave a car or two here, your takeout spot - Riverwalk, Fort Mill
  
  Additional info from Duke on put in/out
  
  The float can take a few hours, depending on the water level, discharge rate and the day's weather. My notes are simply a starting point, research and plan accordingly!