Black River

The Black River flows through heavy riparian growth of Prairie Oak trees and undisturbed swampland. It flows calmly, but there is the potential for obstacles like fallen wood or too-shallow water. 

The Black River is one of the largest remaining wetland systems in western Washington and has been identified as an important fish and wildlife habitat by the US Fish & Wildlife Service since 1980. Because the river is slow-moving and lined with thick vegetation, it represents an almost undisturbed habitat for 150 species of migratory birds, including waterfowl and neotropical songbirds, as well as water mammals and amphibians like the endangered Oregon Spotted Frog. The Black River is also popular for fishing due to healthy runs of Chum, Chinook, and Coho salmon, as well as Steelhead and Cutthroat trout.

The Black River flows south from Black Lake to join the Chehalis River - because Black Lake also drains north through Percival Creek, it is unique in Washington as the only continuous waterway to flow into both the Puget Sound and the Pacific at the western coast.

PUT-INs & TAKE-OUTS

The typical put-in is at the Black River Boat Launch south of Little Rock. The typical take-out is at the Oakville #1 Boat Launch, just east of Oakville. There's an intermediate access point at the bridge where Moon Road crosses the river, but it can be difficult to find. A trip could continue on to the Chehalis River for an additional 9 miles of Class I to a boat ramp in the town of Porter - this stretch is wider and more agricultural. The WDF Boat Launches require a Discover Pass.

Flow

The Black River has no gauge - the nearest gauges to the confluence with the Chehalis are on the Chehalis at Porter, downriver of the Black, and upriver at Grand Mound. 

ON THE WATER

On the first half of the reach the flow can be negligible and may only be between 0.1 to 0.5 mph.  At mile 6.2 on river right there is a small opening to take out boats that leads to a large field, which marks the first place that makes for a good lunch stop.  After this point the river narrows a little, farm houses come into view, and there is a section that flows 1 to 1.5 mph, which is a relief to help move downstream.  At 9.3 miles you reach the road bridge.  After this there are some logs and grass islands to weave through until reaching a massive, riverwide beaver lodge at mile 11.2.  Find a narrow passage through, or step delicately and portage over as needed.  Although not far, the take out is yet a mile away and may seem farther after a big day of flatwater paddling. 

Much of the run is dotted with beaver slides and many deadfall and strainers that never get lifted and carried downstream due to the lack of power in the river.  In the first 3 miles noise from SR12 on river left is frequent.  The last 3 miles the railroad abuts the riverbank on river right and you may see a long freight train pass by. 

NOTES 

• Average Gradient:  3 feet per mile
• Source: Black Lake, 12 miles upstream from the DFW Black River Boat Launch

• Suitable Activities: Packrafting
• Seasons: Year-round
• Weather: View weather forecast

• Difficulty: flatwater, Class I River
• Length: 12.3 mi

• Land Manager: Land Manager Varies
• Parking Permit Required: see Land Manager
• Recommended Party Size: 8
• Maximum Party Size: 12
• Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12