The ideal streamflow range for this river run is between 500-1,500 cfs. The river is classified as Class III-IV, making it suitable for experienced paddlers.
The total segment mileage of the Whitewater River run is approximately 12 miles. Along the way, paddlers will encounter specific river rapids and obstacles such as the "Punch Bowl" and "Pinball" rapids. The "Punch Bowl" is a Class IV rapid with a steep drop and a large boulder in the middle of the flow, while "Pinball" is a Class III rapid with numerous boulders and eddies.
Specific regulations to the area include a permit requirement for organized groups of 15 or more and a prohibition on swimming or wading in the river due to dangerous currents and underwater hazards. Additionally, users are required to practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all trash.
| Last Updated | 2025-12-03 |
| River Levels | 117 cfs (12.28 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 26% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii-iv |
| Elevation | ft |
| Run Length | 1.0 Mi |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 11469000 |
Mattole R Nr Petrolia Ca
|
323cfs |
Bull C Nr Weott Ca
|
32cfs |
Mattole R Nr Ettersburg Ca
|
55cfs |
Eel R A Scotia Ca
|
894cfs |
Van Duzen R Nr Bridgeville Ca
|
105cfs |
Sf Eel R Nr Miranda Ca
|
173cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Sea Lion Gulch
|
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Cooskie Creek
|
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Mattole
|
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Randall Creek
|
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Arthur W. Way County Memorial Park Campground
|
||
A.W. Way County Park
|
From Its Headwaters In Sec. 32, T2S, R2W, Hm To To The Pacific Ocean
From Its Headwaters In Sec 27, T2S, R2W, Hm To To The Pacific Ocean
From Its Intersection With Chaparral Creek In Sec. 9 T3S, R2W, Hm To To The Pacific Ocean
From Its Headwaters In Sec. 21, T2S, R2W, Hm To To Its Junction With The Mattole River
Headwaters In Sec. 27., T2S, R2W, Hm To To Its Junction With The Mattole River
Mill Creek