SALINAS RIVER

Last Updated: May 10, 2026

Total streamflow across the Salinas River was last observed at 642 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 1,274 acre-ft of water today; about 75% of normal. Average streamflow for this time of year is 857 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2023-03-13 when daily discharge volume was observed at 66,820 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Salinas R Nr Bradley Ca reporting a streamflow rate of 354 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Salinas R A Paso Robles Ca with a gauge stage of 13.65 ft. This river is monitored from 5 different streamgauging stations along the Salinas River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 681 ft, the Salinas R A Paso Robles Ca.

Get the latest River Levels, Streamflow, and Hydrology for in River flows across 5 streamgages of the Salinas River


15-Day Long Term Forecast


River Details

Last Updated 2026-05-09
Discharge Volume 1,274 ACRE-FT
Streamflow 642.29 cfs
Past 24 Hours: +26.33 cfs (+4.27%)
Percent of Normal 74.93%
Maximum 66,820.0 cfs
2023-03-13
Seasonal Avg cfs
       
River Streamflow Levels
Start Free Trial
Streamgauge Streamflow Gauge Stage 24hr Change (%) % Normal Minimum (cfs) Maximum (cfs) Air Temp Elevation
Salinas R A Paso Robles Ca
USGS 11147500 		6 cfs 13.65 ft -29.4
Salinas R Nr Bradley Ca
USGS 11150500 		354 cfs 3.85 ft -1.39
Salinas R A Soledad Ca
USGS 11151700 		174 cfs 9.79 ft 14.47
Salinas R Nr Chualar Ca
USGS 11152300 		68 cfs 2.47 ft 8.61
Salinas R Nr Spreckels Ca
USGS 11152500 		41 cfs 3.89 ft 18.42
Seasonal Discharge Comparison
Start Free Trial
Maximum Streamflow Discharge
Streamflow Elevation Profile

It was named after the Salinan people who have lived in the area for thousands of years. The river has a rich history, including being a source of water for the Spanish missions in the area. It is also a vital source of water for agriculture, supplying irrigation for the fertile Salinas Valley. There are several dams and reservoirs on the river, including the San Antonio Reservoir, Nacimiento Reservoir, and Lake Salinas. These provide essential water storage and flood control during heavy rain periods. The river is also an important recreational area, offering opportunities for fishing, swimming, and kayaking.

View more

Nearby Fishing