Raccoon Creek flows nearly 112 miles through the rugged Appalachian Plateau terrain of southeastern Ohio, cutting through Vinton, Meigs, and Gallia counties before emptying into the Ohio River just south of Gallipolis. This high-quality stream has experienced a remarkable recovery from acid mine drainage that once rendered much of it nearly lifeless. Ohio's most recent state scenic river designation, Raccoon Creek now supports an exceptional fishery with more than 90 documented fish species. The creek features an average gradient of 5.08 feet per mile, dropping from 1,100 feet at the headwaters to 520 feet above sea level at its confluence with the Ohio River. The watershed drains 683.5 square miles across six counties, with average depths of 3-4 feet and deeper pools scattered throughout. The stream bottom varies from shallow riffles to holes providing excellent fish habitat, though waders should be aware of soft, muddy substrates in some areas.