Raccoon Creek originates near New Plymouth in northern Vinton County, where the East Branch and West Branch converge at approximately river mile 111.9. From this confluence, the creek flows southward through Vinton, Meigs, and Gallia counties for 112 miles before emptying into the Ohio River just south of Gallipolis. This makes it one of Ohio's longest streams, draining a watershed of 683.5 square miles across heavily forested hill country characteristic of the unglaciated Appalachian Plateau region.

The creek's transformation from a severely degraded waterway to a thriving aquatic ecosystem represents one of Ohio's most remarkable environmental recovery stories. Historic coal mining from the late 1800s through the 1970s left Raccoon Creek nearly lifeless due to acid mine drainage. Beginning in the 1980s, the Raccoon Creek Partnership spearheaded restoration efforts that have resulted in dramatic improvements. Today, the Ohio EPA designates portions as Warmwater Habitat and Exceptional Warmwater Habitat, with over 90 fish species documented—up from just 24 when restoration began.

Paddling opportunities exist throughout the watershed, though conditions vary significantly. The upper sections through Vinton County require adequate water levels, typically available March through June when the Moffats Mill gauge reads 2.2 feet or above. At proper levels, paddlers encounter Class I water with numerous twists through forested corridors. The Vinton Dam at river mile 40.3 creates the only significant impoundment. Below this dam through Gallia County, the creek achieves Exceptional Warmwater Habitat status for approximately 32 miles, offering outstanding scenery and wildlife viewing. The lower sections become increasingly accessible, with the final miles near the Ohio River confluence suitable for novice paddlers.

Wildlife diversity has rebounded spectacularly. The creek now supports state-threatened paddlefish, numerous redhorse species, and healthy mussel populations. Bald eagles nest along the corridor, and the watershed harbors over 100 rare species including 45 endangered or threatened. The heavily forested riparian zones—covering 61% of the corridor to at least 120 feet depth—provide critical habitat.

Access points include locations near Vinton in Gallia County and various informal put-ins throughout the watershed. Raccoon Creek County Park in Gallia County offers developed facilities. The creek flows through or near communities including Vinton, Wilkesville, and Rio Grande.

In November 2024, Raccoon Creek received designation as Ohio's first State Scenic River in southeast Ohio, recognizing both its ecological recovery and natural significance. The designation covers 111.9 miles from the East and West Branch confluence to the Ohio River.

Paddlers should anticipate woody debris, beaver dams, and occasional log jams due to the creek's high sinuosity and low gradient. Water levels fluctuate significantly, and adequate flow is essential for navigation in upper sections.