Yellow River State Forest
Allamakee Co. · 40 mi · Class I–II
507CFS/ 7.04 ft
Optimal→Stable
Optimal: 100–600 CFS · USGS #05389000
Length
Difficulty
Optimal
Avg Flow
Hist. Median
USGS Gauge
Yellow River State Forest · Iowa Coldwater Trout Stream
Iowa's most remote paddling corridor flows through the 8,500-acre Yellow River State Forest — the largest contiguous forest in the state. Cold-water trout streams, rugged Driftless Area topography, and virtually no development create a wilderness experience unique in Iowa. The Paint Creek Unit offers the most secluded backcountry camping in the state.
Trip sections
Yellow River main stem — 20 mi, narrow forest corridor
Paint Creek tributary — 10 mi, backcountry trout stream
Outfitters
Yellow River State Forest Office
Camping permits, trail maps, and river conditions
72-Hour Flow Forecast
NOAA NWPSLoading forecast...
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.