Can you swim here today?
Bear Creek
Michigan · River
Use caution — flow is well above normal for this date
Use cautionAs of August 22, 2026, the water temperature at Bear Creek is 64°F (18°C), measured by USGS gauge 04136900, 11.4 miles away.
Use caution — flow is well above normal for this date: water temperature is 64°F, cool enough to cause cold-water shock on a sudden entry.
- Water temperature is 64°F, cool enough to cause cold-water shock on a sudden entry. — USGS gauge 04136900, as of Aug 22, 1:15 PM gauge-local time
- Flow is above the 75th percentile for Aug 22 (median 887 ft³/s over 29 years); fast water is the top river-drowning risk. — USGS daily streamflow statistics, as of Aug 22, 1:15 PM gauge-local time
- Heavy rain today can raise bacteria levels near outfalls and river mouths.
Flow is high for this date — above the 75th percentile for Aug 22 (median 887 ft³/s over 29 years).
No official beach-advisory feed for Michigan yet — follow posted signs and local guidance.
Live, provisional data from USGS gauge AU SABLE RIVER NEAR MC KINLEY, MI (11.4 mi away), as of Aug 22, 1:15 PM gauge-local time.
Before you get in
- Never swim alone — and keep weaker swimmers within arm's reach.
- Scout depth and entry/exit points before you get in.
- Read the current: avoid fast, rising, or murky water.
- Check the forecast — get out well before storms or lightning.
- Obey posted signs, flags, and lifeguard guidance.
Read next
Conditions are for general information only and can change quickly. Always judge the water in person and follow posted advisories and local guidance before swimming or paddling.