National Wild and Scenic Rivers System
Find a River
View the system wide mapAbout the System
Rivers in the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System capture the essence of all waterways that surge, ramble, gush, wander and weave through our country. From the remote rivers of Alaska, Idaho, and Oregon to the rivers threading through the rural countryside of New Hampshire, Ohio, and Massachusetts, each preserves a part of American story and heritage.
Middle Fork Salmon River
Managing the System
The National Wild and Scenic Rivers System was created by Congress in 1968 to preserve certain rivers with outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational values in a free-flowing condition for the enjoyment of present and future generations. Rivers may be designated by Congress or, if certain requirements are met, the Secretary of the Interior. Each river is administered by either a federal or state agency.
Questions and Answers
From Access to Zoning, get answers to questions about wild and scenic rivers.
Management Plans
River management plans help communities work together to protect wild and scenic rivers.
Documents
Search for documents and other file resources.
News
October 7, 2024
On October 2nd, the anniversary of the National Trails System Act and the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, the National Park Foundation announced over $1 million in grants to national rivers and trails...
August 23, 2024
River Network and the USDA Forest Service have joined forces for the sixth consecutive year to support the stewardship of wild and scenic rivers across the United States. This partnership provides...
June 25, 2024
“Rivers run through our history and folklore, and link us as a people. . . . We are a nation rich in rivers.”
So said Charles Kuralt in 1995 . . . and he understated their inextricable ties...