2026-01-05T16:00:00-08:00
An Atmospheric River Event will bring moderate to heavy rain this evening through Monday evening. The prolonged period of rain will bring the risk of flooding to the Sacramento Valley, Shasta County, northern Sierra Nevada and adjacent foothills, as well as the Coastal Range. This will be for elevations below 4000 feet. * WHAT...Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible. * WHERE...A portion of northern California below 4000 feet in elevation, including the following areas, Sacramento Valley, Motherlode, Mountains Southwestern Shasta County to Western Colusa County, Northeast Foothills, and Shasta Lake Area / Northern Shasta County. * WHEN...From this evening through Monday afternoon. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff will result in rises along area rivers, creeks, streams. Small streams and creeks may rise out of their banks. Flooding may occur in low-lying, poor drainage, and urban areas. Mudslides and rockslides may occur in mountain and foothill areas. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
Summary
The South Fork Cottonwood Creek is a popular whitewater river run in California. The ideal streamflow range for this river is between 200-400 cfs, which typically occurs during the spring and early summer months. The river is rated as a Class III-IV, with a segment mileage of approximately 8 miles.
The river rapids and obstacles include tight turns, boulder gardens, and several larger drops, including the Class IV "Cottonwood Falls." Paddlers should be experienced and have appropriate gear, including helmets and personal flotation devices.
Specific regulations to the area include a permit requirement for commercial outfitters, as well as a requirement for private boaters to register and obtain a permit for overnight stays. The area is also subject to fire restrictions during the dry season.
River Run Details
| Last Updated | 2025-06-28 |
| River Levels | 44 cfs (1.53 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 89% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii-iv |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 11379500 |
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Elder C Nr Paskenta Ca
|
346cfs |
Mad R Ab Ruth Res Nr Forest Glen Ca
|
784cfs |
Clear C Nr Igo Ca
|
414cfs |
Sacramento R Ab Bend Bridge Nr Red Bluff Ca
|
21600cfs |
Cottonwood C Nr Cottonwood Ca
|
2760cfs |
Mf Eel R Nr Dos Rios Ca
|
7580cfs |
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Thunder Camp
|
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Tomhead Saddle
|
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Tomhead Saddle Campground
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Hawk Camp
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Burnt Camp
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Cedar Basin Camp
|
South Fork Cottonwood Creek
Headwaters (At Wilderness Boundary) To West Section Line Of Sec 28, T28S,R11W