Canadian River is a major tributary of the Arkansas River, flowing through New Mexico and Oklahoma. It offers fishing, boating, and historic crossings across its broad basin.

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Geography

ContinentNorth America
RegionSouthwestern United States
SubregionGreat Plains
CountryUnited States
StateNew MexicoOklahoma
CountyRoosevelt County (New Mexico)Cimarron County (Oklahoma)Texas County (Oklahoma)Harper County (Oklahoma)
DistrictCanadian River Basin
TimezoneAmericaChicago
Latitude36.5
Longitude-101.5
Maps
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Canadian River traces a northeast-to-southwest course across the Great Plains, rising in New Mexico before flowing into Oklahoma and joining the Arkansas River. Characterized by wide floodplains and modest rapids where it crosses bedrock formations, the river supports agricultural irrigation, multi-use trails, and historic crossings at stateside ties to Native American routes and early European settlement. Expect variable flows depending on season and rainfall, with drought susceptibility and seasonal delta near its confluence with larger rivers. Key access points and towns include Texhoma, Cimarron, and Eldora, with basin-wide ecological concerns focused on native fish, riparian habitat, and water rights. Use detailed maps and local guides for routes suited to boating, fishing, or long-distance crossing.

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