Big Piney Creek
Pope / Johnson Co. · 60 mi · Class I–III
518CFS/ 2.14 ft
Optimal→Stable
Optimal: 300–2,500 CFS · USGS #07257006
Length
Difficulty
Optimal
Avg Flow
Hist. Median
USGS Gauge
Ozark National Forest · Big Piney Creek Natural Area
Big Piney Creek delivers some of the best whitewater in the Ozarks when rain brings it up — continuous Class II–III rapids through a forested canyon in the Ozark Highlands. The Hector to Long Pool section is a classic Arkansas creek run, with sandstone bluffs, clear water, and a wilderness feel just off the interstate.
Trip sections
Hector to Long Pool — 12 mi, Class II–III, premier whitewater run
Fort Douglas to Hector — 15 mi, Class I–II, upper section
Long Pool to AR-164 — 20 mi, Class I, scenic lower valley
Outfitters
Ozark Outdoor Supply
Kayak and canoe rentals for Big Piney Creek trips from Hector
Long Pool Recreation Area
USFS campground and river access at the takeout
72-Hour Flow Forecast
NOAA NWPSLoading forecast...
10-Year Flow Patterns
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Your Optimal Range
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Data Quality
River conditions are community-verified. CFS ranges, difficulty ratings, and trip sections may not reflect every flow level or seasonal change. Always check current conditions, scout unfamiliar rapids, and paddle within your skill level. If you spot an error, use the Improve This River button at the top of the page — your local knowledge is what makes this atlas accurate.