It has a class rating of III-IV and a segment mileage of 6.5 miles. The ideal streamflow range for this section of the river is between 300-1200 cfs.
There are several specific river rapids and obstacles in the Mill Creek section, including the Toilet Bowl, which is a steep drop into a swirling eddy, and the Slot, a narrow channel with a strong hydraulic that can flip rafts. Other notable rapids include Grumpy Grouper, Train Wreck, and the Meat Grinder.
There are specific regulations to the area, which include a permit system for commercial rafting companies. Private boaters are allowed to run the section of the river, but they must adhere to a strict Leave No Trace policy and obtain a free permit from the Bureau of Land Management. Additionally, all boaters must wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket and helmets are recommended.
| Last Updated | 2025-06-28 |
| River Levels | 117 cfs (12.28 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 107% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | None |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 11469000 |
Mattole R Nr Petrolia Ca
|
318cfs |
Bull C Nr Weott Ca
|
30cfs |
Eel R A Scotia Ca
|
860cfs |
Mattole R Nr Ettersburg Ca
|
52cfs |
Van Duzen R Nr Bridgeville Ca
|
101cfs |
Sf Eel R Nr Miranda Ca
|
181cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Mattole
|
||
Sea Lion Gulch
|
||
A.W. Way County Park
|
||
Arthur W. Way County Memorial Park Campground
|
||
Cooskie Creek
|
||
Randall Creek
|
Mill Creek
From Private Land Boundary Between Sec. 8 And 17, T2S, R2W, Hm To To The Pacific Ocean
Mattole River
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
From Its Headwaters In Sec 27, T2S, R2W, Hm To To The Pacific Ocean