A 135-mile Ozark river flowing through Missouri's historic Lead Belt — past abandoned mines, forested hills, and the bluffs of Washington State Park. The Big River offers gentle Class I–II paddling through a landscape shaped by two centuries of lead mining. Despite its industrial past, the river has recovered remarkably, with clear water, gravel bars, and good smallmouth bass fishing throughout the lower reaches.
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.