California Whitewater
HEADWATERS, UPPER PIRU CREEK TO WILDERNES BOUNDARY
STREAMFLOW: 43 CFS
• Class III-IV River Run
The Whitewater River Run from Headwaters, Upper Piru Creek to the Wilderness Boundary in California is a challenging but exhilarating adventure for experienced kayakers and rafters. The ideal streamflow range for this stretch of the river is between 150 and 350 cubic feet per second (cfs). This section is rated Class III-IV, with a total segment mileage of approximately 10 miles.
The river rapids and obstacles in this section of the Whitewater River include several drops and chutes, including "Elevator Shaft" and "Pinball." There are also numerous boulders and other natural obstacles that require careful navigation. Safety equipment such as helmets, life jackets, and rescue ropes are recommended.
Specific regulations to the area include obtaining a permit from the Los Padres National Forest office, as well as adhering to all Leave No Trace principles. Camping is only allowed in designated areas, and fires are prohibited. Additionally, vehicles must be parked in designated areas and not along the side of the road.
Get driving directions.
The river rapids and obstacles in this section of the Whitewater River include several drops and chutes, including "Elevator Shaft" and "Pinball." There are also numerous boulders and other natural obstacles that require careful navigation. Safety equipment such as helmets, life jackets, and rescue ropes are recommended.
Specific regulations to the area include obtaining a permit from the Los Padres National Forest office, as well as adhering to all Leave No Trace principles. Camping is only allowed in designated areas, and fires are prohibited. Additionally, vehicles must be parked in designated areas and not along the side of the road.
Get driving directions.
| Last Updated | 2024-04-25 |
| River Levels | 8 cfs (2.09 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 508% |
| Reporting Streamgauge | SESPE CREEK NEAR WHEELER SPRINGS CA |
| Elevation | 3,544 ft. |
| River | |
| Watershed | Santa Clara |
Nearby Camping
| Location | Campsites | Reservations | Toilets | Showers | Elevation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wheeler Gorge | 70 | 1,814 ft | |||
| Toad Springs | 5 | 5,669 ft | |||
| Steckel Co Park | Numerous | 775 ft | |||
| Camp Comfort | 15 | 578 ft | |||
| Pine Springs | 12 | 5,829 ft | |||
| McGill | 78 | 7,453 ft | |||
| Mil Potrero Park | Numerous | 5,680 ft | |||
| Rose Valley | 9 | 3,418 ft | |||
| Dennison Park | Numerous | 1,270 ft | |||
| Thorn Meadows | 5 | 5,054 ft | |||
| Middle Lion | 8 | 3,151 ft | |||
| Nettle Springs | 9 | 4,430 ft | |||
| Marian | 5 | 6,609 ft | |||
| Chula Vista | 12 | 8,288 ft | |||
| Mt Pinos | 19 | 7,655 ft | |||
| Caballo | 5 | 5,799 ft | |||
| Campo Alto | 15 | 8,223 ft |
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