South Carolina river runs
Live streamflow, whitewater class, and length for every paddleable section in South Carolina with a named USGS gauge. Built for kayakers, rafters, and canoeists.
South Carolina paddle map
See which South Carolina runs are in right now
Every run and gauge on one live map:
- Runnable now — too low, in range or too high
- Gauges — every river vs its normal flow
- Rain coming — 24/48/72-hr forecast, press play
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South Carolina river runs today
What’s in range, the best bets by class and what’s running high — from live USGS gauges.
South Carolina is home to some fantastic whitewater and kayaking destinations that are sure to thrill enthusiasts of all skill levels. One popular river run is the Chattooga River, which runs along the border of South Carolina and Georgia. The Chattooga offers Class II-IV rapids, making it perfect for both beginners and more experienced paddlers. The recommended streamflow level for a great time on the Chattooga is between 2.5-4 feet. Another must-visit spot is the Saluda River, which features Class II-III rapids and beautiful scenery. The Saluda is a great choice for a day trip, with the recommended streamflow level being between 2-3 feet.
For those looking for a more challenging adventure, the Tyger River offers Class IV-V rapids and is best tackled by experienced paddlers. The Tyger River has a recommended streamflow level of 1.5-3 feet. Safety is always a top priority when hitting the whitewater in South Carolina, so be sure to check water levels before heading out, wear appropriate safety gear, and paddle with a group whenever possible. By following these tips and exploring the diverse whitewater offerings in South Carolina, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience on the water.
South Carolina paddle report
About South Carolina river runs
What does whitewater class mean?
The international whitewater scale (Class I–VI) rates a river's difficulty. I is moving water with riffles. II is straightforward rapids with clear channels. III requires complex maneuvers in fast water. IV is intense, powerful but predictable rapids requiring decisive boat handling. V is extremely long, obstructed, or violent rapids with significant hazard. VI is considered impossible to run.
Where does the South Carolina streamflow data come from?
USGS streamgauges. Each South Carolina paddle run is keyed to a specific gauge that paddlers and outfitters have agreed represents flow on that section. Gauges report every 15 minutes; we re-pull throughout the day.
What's a runnable level?
Run-specific. A creek that's classic at 200 cfs might be too low at 100 and dangerously flooded at 1,000. Always cross-reference with a guidebook or a South Carolina paddling club for the run's accepted gauge ranges before launching.
Can I get an alert when a run hits prime flow?
Yes. Save any paddle run as a favorite in the Snoflo iOS app, set a flow window (e.g. "alert me between 800 and 1,500 cfs"), and you'll get a push the moment it crosses into range. Free with a Snoflo account.
Is this a substitute for local guidebooks and trip leaders?
No. Snoflo is informational. Always carry appropriate skills, gear, and a sober assessment of the day's flow. For high-consequence runs (Class IV+), paddle with people who know the run and never solo. American Whitewater is the authoritative source for U.S. river information.