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 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 multiple rivers with dozens of access points, covering popular floating destinations with real-time gauge data, float time estimates, and detailed access point information.
Eddy pulls readings from USGS gauges every hour — gauge height (ft), discharge (cfs), and temperature when available.
Each river has researched thresholds based on outfitter experience and NPS guidance. Readings are compared against these to produce a condition code.
When you pick a put-in, Eddy uses the nearest gauge so your conditions reflect the actual section you're floating, not just the river as a whole.
Times factor in river miles, vessel type (kayak, canoe, raft, tube), and current water levels — higher water means faster floats.
Thresholds vary by river and gauge. Visit the Gauges page to see specifics for each station.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
