CLINTON RIVER

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Get the latest River Levels, Streamflow, and Hydrology for in River flows across 4 streamgages of the Clinton River


Summary

Total streamflow across the Clinton River was last observed at 858 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 1,702 acre-ft of water today; about 42% of normal. River levels are low and may signify a drought. Average streamflow for this time of year is 2,025 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2024-01-27 when daily discharge volume was observed at 13,396 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Clinton River At Moravian Drive At Mt. Clemens reporting a streamflow rate of 286 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Clinton River At Sterling Heights with a gauge stage of 8.23 ft. This river is monitored from 4 different streamgauging stations along the Clinton River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 846 ft, the Clinton River At Auburn Hills.

River Details

Last Updated 2025-12-04
Discharge Volume 1,702 ACRE-FT
Streamflow 858.0 cfs
+97.0 cfs (+12.75%)
Percent of Normal 42.37%
Maximum 13,396.0 cfs
2024-01-27
Seasonal Avg cfs
       
River Streamflow Levels
Streamgauge Streamflow Gauge Stage 24hr Change (%) % Normal Minimum (cfs) Maximum (cfs) Air Temp Elevation
Clinton River At Auburn Hills
USGS 04161000
123 cfs 1.73 ft 0.82
Clinton River At Sterling Heights
USGS 04161820
213 cfs 8.23 ft 8.12
Clinton River Near Fraser
USGS 04164000
236 cfs 6.27 ft 16.83
Clinton River At Moravian Drive At Mt. Clemens
USGS 04165500
286 cfs 4.74 ft 19.17
Seasonal Discharge Comparison
Maximum Streamflow Discharge
Streamflow Elevation Profile

Clair. The river was named after DeWitt Clinton, a former governor of New York. The river is part of the larger Lake St. Clair watershed and is fed by numerous tributaries.

There are several reservoirs along the Clinton River, including the Yates Cider Mill Reservoir, the Sylvan Glen Lake, and the Dodge #4 State Park Reservoir. Additionally, there are several dams on the river, including the Auburn Hills Municipal Dam, the Lake Oakland Dam, and the Yates Cider Mill Dam.

The Clinton River is a popular spot for recreational activities, including kayaking, fishing, and nature hikes. The river also serves as a water source for several communities in the area and is used for agricultural irrigation. Throughout its history, the Clinton River has played an important role in the development of the region, from powering mills during the Industrial Revolution to serving as a crucial transportation route.