Kayaking & Canoeing the Cedar Creek
Iowa paddling guide
- 2.6 mi
- River mapped
- 1
- Boat launches
- 0
- Campgrounds
- 1
- Counties
The Cedar Creek is one of Iowa's paddling rivers, tracing roughly 2.6 mi, winding through Mahaska County. This guide maps 1 public boat launch and access point on the Cedar Creek, plus the live USGS gauge readings you need to plan a safe day kayaking, canoeing or tubing in Iowa.
Boat launches & access points on the Cedar Creek
1 public access point for putting in and taking out.
- ▸Cedar Creek AccessMahaska Co.
Live Cedar Creek conditions
Cedar Creek: 28 cfs, 4.6 ft — runnable.
Yes — right now the Cedar Creek is runnable at 28 cfs (as of Jul 25, 2026, 7:15 AM CT), within its normal paddling range. Iowa rivers rise fast after heavy rain, so always check the live USGS gauge and skip the river when it reads high or is flagged for flooding.
Typically runnable between about 5 and 210 cfs. Treat readings above 210 cfs as dangerous high water and below 5 cfs as too low to float. Provisional paddling band — always scout on site.
Source: USGS Cedar Creek near Bussey, IA, updated Jul 25, 2026, 7:15 AM CT. Live readings are provisional — always confirm on the map before launching.
River levels change fast. Check the live USGS gauges, weather radar and flood-safety status for the Cedar Creek on the interactive Iowa Paddle map. It flags dangerous high water and dams so you can paddle safely.
Cedar Creek paddling FAQ
- Is the Cedar Creek safe to paddle right now?
- Yes — right now the Cedar Creek is runnable at 28 cfs (as of Jul 25, 2026, 7:15 AM CT), within its normal paddling range. Iowa rivers rise fast after heavy rain, so always check the live USGS gauge and skip the river when it reads high or is flagged for flooding.
- How long is the Cedar Creek?
- About 2.6 mi of the Cedar Creek is mapped for paddling across 1 Iowa county, with 1 access point to build shorter day trips.
- Do I need a permit to kayak or canoe the Cedar Creek?
- No permit is required to paddle Iowa's rivers. Non-motorized kayaks and canoes don't need registration; just wear a life vest, check the live USGS gauge, and avoid the river during or after heavy rain.
Rivers to paddle near the Cedar Creek
Close by if you're planning a kayaking or canoeing trip in this part of Iowa:
Paddle more of Iowa
The Cedar Creek is just one of dozens of paddleable rivers in the state. Browse the full guide to kayaking & canoeing every river in Iowa.