2026-01-25T11:00:00-07:00
* WHAT...Heavy mixed precipitation expected. Total snow and sleet accumulations between 3 and 8 inches except 16 to 20 inches above 9,000 feet in the Sacramento mountains. Total ice accumulations of less than one tenth of an inch. * WHERE...Eastern Lincoln County, South Central Mountains, Curry County, Roosevelt County, Chaves County Plains, and Southwest Chaves County. * WHEN...Until 11 AM MST Sunday. * IMPACTS...Travel will become very difficult. Tire traction will be reduced. Extend the distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you. The hazardous conditions will impact the Friday evening commute. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Dangerously cold temperatures will also accompany this winter storm. Temperatures will be coldest Sunday and Monday mornings when wind chills will drop below zero. A period freezing rain may occur tonight before precipitation transitions over to snow, with eastern portions of Roosevelt and Curry counties the most likely receive ice accumulations.
Summary
The ideal streamflow range for this river is between 300 and 800 cubic feet per second (cfs), which typically occurs during the spring runoff season or after heavy rainfall. The river is rated as a Class III to IV, making it suitable for intermediate to advanced paddlers.
The segment mileage of the Rio Bonito is approximately 6.5 miles, starting at the Bonito Lake Dam and ending at the intersection of Highway 380. The river features several exciting rapids, including "Pinball", "Boxcar", and "No Way Out". These rapids offer a thrilling experience for rafters, but also require skill and experience to navigate safely.
Specific regulations for the Rio Bonito include a permit requirement for commercial outfitters and a limit on the number of commercial and private boaters allowed on the river each day. Additionally, all boaters are required to wear a personal flotation device (PFD) and adhere to Leave No Trace principles to minimize the impact on the surrounding environment.
Overall, the Rio Bonito offers a challenging and rewarding whitewater experience for paddlers willing to take on its rapids. It is important to check streamflow conditions and regulations before planning a trip to this beautiful river.
River Run Details
| Last Updated | 2025-06-28 |
| River Levels | 1 cfs (6.08 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 4% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 08387600 |
Hourly Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Baca Campground
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Cave Campground
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Jagger's Campground
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Rio Bonito
Headwaters (Sec 27, T8S, R17E) To Confluence Of Streams In Sec 34, T8S, R17E
Headwaters (Hale Canyon) To Nf Boundary
Headwaters To Eastern Boundary Private Land