Kayaking & Canoeing the Clear Creek
Iowa paddling guide
- 2.6 mi
- River mapped
- 1
- Boat launches
- 0
- Campgrounds
- 1
- Counties
The Clear Creek is one of Iowa's paddling rivers, tracing roughly 2.6 mi, winding through Johnson County. This guide maps 1 public boat launch and access point on the Clear 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 Clear Creek
1 public access point for putting in and taking out.
- ▸S.T. Morrison PondJohnson Co.
Live Clear Creek conditions
Clear Creek: 32 cfs, 1.1 ft — runnable.
Yes — right now the Clear Creek is runnable at 32 cfs (as of Jul 25, 2026, 7:00 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 15 and 2,500 cfs. Treat readings above 2,500 cfs as dangerous high water and below 15 cfs as too low to float. Provisional paddling band — always scout on site.
Source: USGS Clear Creek near Coralville, IA, updated Jul 25, 2026, 7:00 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 Clear Creek on the interactive Iowa Paddle map. It flags dangerous high water and dams so you can paddle safely.
Clear Creek paddling FAQ
- Is the Clear Creek safe to paddle right now?
- Yes — right now the Clear Creek is runnable at 32 cfs (as of Jul 25, 2026, 7:00 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 Clear Creek?
- About 2.6 mi of the Clear 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 Clear 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 Clear Creek
Close by if you're planning a kayaking or canoeing trip in this part of Iowa:
Paddle more of Iowa
The Clear Creek is just one of dozens of paddleable rivers in the state. Browse the full guide to kayaking & canoeing every river in Iowa.