Float ETA estimates how long this float actually takes from live discharge at USGS 14092500 (Deschutes River nr Madras), not a guidebook average. At a typical 4,500 cfs, a raft drifts about 3.8 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 Deschutes River (Maupin) listing covers 16 river miles across 2 access-to-access stretches (Class III, Class II–III). 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 Deschutes River (Maupin) float time
Float stretches on the Deschutes River (Maupin)
| Put-in → take-out | Miles | Difficulty | Typical raft time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harpham Flat → Maupin City Park | 8 mi | Class III | ~2 hr 6 min | Wapinitia and Boxcar are the big ones. A Deschutes boater pass is required for every person. |
| Maupin City Park → Sandy Beach | 8 mi | Class II–III | ~2 hr 6 min | Oak Springs is the rapid to scout. Sandy Beach is the LAST take-out — Sherars Falls below is not runnable. |
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 14092500.
Common questions
How long does it take to float Harpham Flat to Maupin City Park on the Deschutes River (Maupin)?
About 2 hr 6 min in a raft at a typical 4500 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Add your own stop or fishing time in the planner. Wapinitia and Boxcar are the big ones. A Deschutes boater pass is required for every person.
How long does it take to float Maupin City Park to Sandy Beach on the Deschutes River (Maupin)?
About 2 hr 6 min in a raft at a typical 4500 cfs. Kayaks run a bit faster; tubes run slower. Add your own stop or fishing time in the planner. Oak Springs is the rapid to scout. Sandy Beach is the LAST take-out — Sherars Falls below is not runnable.
What USGS gauge is used for Deschutes River (Maupin) float times?
Float ETA uses USGS gauge 14092500 (Deschutes River nr Madras) for live discharge. Speed is scaled from a reference 4500 cfs drift of about 3.8 mph.
Is the Deschutes River (Maupin) a good tube float?
Tubes lag the current (we use a 0.72× speed multiplier). This listing includes Class III or harder water — rafts and experienced paddlers, not tubes.