Illinois Bayou
Pope Co. · 40 mi · Class I–III
349CFS/ 6.36 ft
Optimal
→Stable
Optimal: 200–1500 CFS · USGS #07257500
⚡Flow data is live from USGS·Rapid classifications and CFS ranges need community verification·Know this river?
40 mi
Length
Class I–III
Difficulty
200–1500 cfs
Optimal
380 cfs
Avg Flow
342 cfs
Hist. Median
#07257500
USGS Gauge
Ozark National Forest · Ozark Highlands Trail

A rain-dependent Ozark creek that delivers excellent whitewater when running. Illinois Bayou drops through the Ozark Highlands in Pope County with continuous Class II–III rapids, sandstone bluffs, and forested canyon scenery. When the gauge is up, this is some of the best creek boating in Arkansas — technical, scenic, and uncrowded.

Trip sections
Hector to Scottsville — 15 mi, Class II–III, best whitewater
Scottsville to Russellville — 25 mi, Class I–II, wider valley
Outfitters
Ozark Outdoor Supply
Kayak rentals and shuttle service for Illinois Bayou trips
72-Hour Flow Forecast
NOAA NWPS
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10-Year Flow Patterns
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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.