Real-time river conditions and float planning powered by live USGS gauge data. Learn how we help you find the perfect time to float.
Eddy is a Missouri River float trip planner that combines real-time water conditions, access point information, and float time estimates to help you plan the perfect river trip. Unlike static guides, Eddy pulls live data from USGS gauges every hour to give you accurate, up-to-date conditions.
We currently support 8 rivers in the Missouri Ozarks with over 30 access points, covering some of the region's most popular floating destinations including the Meramec, Current, Eleven Point, Jacks Fork, Niangua, Big Piney, Huzzah, and Courtois rivers.
Eddy connects directly to the United States Geological Survey (USGS) Water Services API to fetch real-time gauge readings every hour. Each gauge measures:
Each river has carefully researched gauge height thresholds based on local outfitter experience, National Park Service guidance, and historical data. For example, the Current River at Akers gauge uses these thresholds:
Thresholds vary by river and gauge location. Visit the Gauges page to see specific thresholds for each gauge station.
Float times are calculated based on:
When you select a put-in point, Eddy uses the gauge nearest to your starting location to provide the most accurate conditions for your specific float segment. This is especially important on longer rivers where conditions can vary significantly between upstream and downstream sections.
Eddy uses seven condition codes to communicate water levels and safety. Here's what each condition means and when you should (or shouldn't) float:
Too Low - Not Recommended
Water levels are well below what's generally needed for floating. Depending on the river section, you may encounter long stretches of exposed gravel bars, shallow riffles, and areas where floating simply isn't practical. Upper and lower sections of a river may vary.
Generally not recommended. Wait for rain or try a different river. Some deeper sections may still be passable — check with local outfitters.
Low - Scraping Likely
Water levels are below normal for most sections. Expect shallow areas, frequent scraping, and possible portaging — though conditions can differ between upper and lower stretches of the same river. Float times will likely be longer than estimated.
Not ideal for beginners or large groups. Some river sections may float better than others — consider checking with local outfitters for section-specific advice.
Okay - Floatable
Water levels are below optimal but generally floatable across most sections. You may encounter some shallow spots, especially in wider or upper sections, but most of the river should have enough water. Float times may run a bit longer than estimates.
Suitable for most paddlers. Be prepared for occasional shallow spots — conditions can vary by section.
Optimal Conditions
Water levels are in the ideal range for floating. Most river sections will have good depth without dangerously fast currents. This is generally the best time to be on the water, though conditions may still vary somewhat between sections.
Great conditions for floating. Always check local conditions before heading out.
High Water - Experienced Only
Water levels are elevated across most sections with faster currents and increased hazards. Strainers, sweepers, and hydraulics pose greater risks. Some sections may be more affected than others depending on the river's geography.
It is recommended to try another day. If you do go out, know your skill level and check section-specific conditions.
Flood - Do Not Float
Water levels are at or near flood stage. Currents are extremely swift with severe hazards including debris, submerged obstacles, and powerful hydraulics. All river sections should be considered dangerous.
DO NOT FLOAT under any circumstances. Stay off the water until levels drop significantly.
Unknown
Current conditions cannot be determined due to gauge issues, missing data, or lack of recent readings. This may affect some sections more than others if multiple gauges are involved.
Exercise caution. Check alternate gauges, contact local outfitters, or wait until data becomes available.
Real-time and historical gauge data from the United States Geological Survey's National Water Information System.
waterservices.usgs.gov →River geometry and hydrological network data from USGS.
usgs.gov/national-hydrography →Access point information, facility details, and river management data.
mdc.mo.gov →Data for rivers within National Scenic Riverways (Current, Jacks Fork, Eleven Point).
nps.gov/ozar →Campground reservations and recreation area information for NPS sites.
recreation.gov →Want to show live river conditions on your own website? Eddy offers free embeddable widgets and a simple API that you can add to any site in minutes — no coding experience required.
Drop a live conditions widget, a link button, or a full float trip planner onto your site with a simple copy-paste. Supports light and dark themes.
Fetch river condition data directly as JSON to build your own custom displays.
Always verify conditions before floating and use your own judgment.
Eddy is a planning tool. You are responsible for your own safety on the river.
