Mad River
🎣 Blue-Ribbon Trout🏔 Scenic River
Champaign / Clark Co. · 70 mi · Class I–II
111CFS/ 3.08 ft
Below Optimal→Stable
Optimal: 200–1200 CFS · USGS #03267000
Length
Difficulty
Optimal
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Hist. Median
USGS Gauge
Ohio State Scenic River · Blue-Ribbon Trout Stream
Ohio's only river with consistent spring-fed flow year-round. The Mad River emerges from glacial aquifers near Urbana and maintains cold, clear water even through summer drought — making it one of the best trout streams in the Midwest. Gentle Class I–II paddling through pastoral western Ohio farmland with surprisingly wild riparian corridors.
Trip sections
Urbana to West Liberty — 20 mi, spring-fed headwaters, coldwater fishing
West Liberty to Springfield — 25 mi, pastoral valley, best paddling
Springfield to Dayton — 25 mi, wider channel to Great Miami confluence
Outfitters
Mad River Outfitters
Fly fishing guided trips and kayak access on the Mad River
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.