South Platte River at South Platte

1. 9.50 ftMajor widespread flooding occurs in the canyon.
2. 9.00 ftMany bridges crossing the South Platte River are impassable.
3. 8.50 ftThere is moderate flooding of bridges and rural roads. Structures begin to flood along the river.
4. 8.00 ftBridges and rural roads flood along the river.
5. 7.50 ftHigh water could cause significant washing, and adversely affect bridges over the river. Campgrounds near the river are flooded.
6. 7.00 ftY Camp Road south of Deckers begins to flood. Campgrounds close to the river may also be impacted.
7. 6.50 ftThere is minor flooding of lowlands adjacent to the South Platte River.
8. 6.00 ftThe river begins to overflow into low lying areas upstream near Deckers.

Chance of flooding, October to December

The three-month chances are the River Forecast Centers’ long-range flood outlook, issued September 23, 2026.

Most recent crests

• August 19, 2021: 3.78 ft
• August 6, 2020: 3.71 ft
• July 6, 2019: 4.80 ft
• July 23, 2018: 3.75 ft
• July 21, 2017: 4.03 ft
• June 14, 2016: 4.15 ft
• June 14, 2015: 7.63 ft
• June 1, 2014: 4.61 ft
• September 16, 2013: 3.75 ft
• July 7, 2012: 3.72 ft

• UpstreamSouth Platte River at Cheesman Reservoir
• DownstreamSouth Platte River at Waterton
• Plum Creek (CO) at Sedalia
• West Plum Creek (CO) at Sedalia
• South Platte River at Chatfield Reservoir
• East Plum Creek (CO) at Castle Rock
• South Platte River at Cheesman Reservoir
• Bear Creek (CO) at Morrison

Forecasts by the Missouri Basin River Forecast Center. Forecasts are issued as needed during times of high water, but are not routinely available. Gauge reading affected by reservoir operations. Stage may be affected by ice during winter months.

Stage, flood stages, impacts and crest history from NOAA’s National Water Prediction Service.