French Creek
East boundary Custer State Park to SD 79 or Stockade Reservoir (22 miles)
| Difficulty | II-IV+(V) |
| Length | 23.2 mi |
| Avg Gradient | 65 fpm |
| Gauge | French Creek Above Fairburn Sd |
| Flow Rate as of 1 hour | 2 cfs |
| Reach Info Last Updated | February 14, 2015 |
River Description
Shorter runs are possible.
The canyon itself has some steep sections.
The state of SD lists this section as a wild and scenic river possibility.
The camping fee for the French Creek Natural Area is $2.00 per person per night. Campers need to register at the self-registration station at the east or west trailhead. You will find a fee envelope in the iron ranger box. Separate the top portion from the fee envelope and place on the dashboard of your vehicle. Insert correct amount into the fee envelope. Deposit it in the appropriate container. Checks are made payable to Custer State Park.
River Features
Culverts? Concerns?
Wildlife Loop
Lame Johnny Road/CSP Rd.4
Downstream of this point there are single-track roads which ford (cross through) the streambed, but would obviously not be passable by vehicle during boatable flows. This location is the final bridge before the gorge, and is adjacent to a Horse Campground.
Put In
Take Out
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