Float ETA estimates how long this float actually takes from live discharge at USGS 14210000 (Clackamas River at Estacada), not a guidebook average. At a typical 900 cfs, a raft drifts about 2.8 mph here. Higher flow speeds you up; skinny water slows you down. Kayaks run faster than the current, tubes slower. Add your own total time for stops and fishing.
The Clackamas River (Lower) listing covers 16 river miles across 2 access-to-access stretches (Class I, Class I–II). Times in the table are typical raft hours at that reference flow. Open the live calculator for today's CFS, sunset take-out, water temperature, and rain/UV at the put-in.
See today's Clackamas River (Lower) float time
Float stretches on the Clackamas River (Lower)
| Put-in → take-out | Miles | Difficulty | Typical raft time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milo McIver State Park → Barton Park | 9 mi | Class I–II | ~3 hr 13 min | The popular summer stretch. Water is cold — people drown here every year without PFDs. |
| Barton Park → Carver Park | 7 mi | Class I | ~2 hr 30 min | Slower and quieter. Good for a lazy afternoon at moderate flow. |
How we time this river
Speed scales with discharge using hydraulic geometry v ∝ Q0.34, calibrated to this gauge. That is why a 1,000 cfs afternoon is a different day than 3,000 cfs runoff. Always scout, wear a PFD, and check the Oregon State Marine Board for closures. Gauge page: USGS 14210000.
Common questions
How long does it take to float Milo McIver State Park to Barton Park on the Clackamas River (Lower)?
About 3 hr 13 min in a raft at a typical 900 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Add your own stop or fishing time in the planner. The popular summer stretch. Water is cold — people drown here every year without PFDs.
How long does it take to float Barton Park to Carver Park on the Clackamas River (Lower)?
About 2 hr 30 min in a raft at a typical 900 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Add your own stop or fishing time in the planner. Slower and quieter. Good for a lazy afternoon at moderate flow.
What USGS gauge is used for Clackamas River (Lower) float times?
Float ETA uses USGS gauge 14210000 (Clackamas River at Estacada) for live discharge. Speed is scaled from a reference 900 cfs drift of about 2.8 mph.
Is the Clackamas River (Lower) a good tube float?
Tubes lag the current (we use a 0.72× speed multiplier). On Class I–II stretches tubes can work at moderate flows; skip high water and always wear a PFD.