Although the water quality of this stream is not the best, it is scenic and navigable, with little debris or deadfalls. Birch and willow trees overhang the water and camping spots near the water can be found at the edge of some of the farm fields that lie on the the river. Although canoeable, this creek does not possess pleasing aesthetic qualities, resembling a dredged drainage ditch. Access, however, is usually not difficult. This river belies its name, being extremely canoeable.
Rough River is typically high banked and shaded with willow and various hardwoods.
The most scenic sections are from the tailwater to Falls of the Rough, and from Falls of the rough to the KY 54 bridge. This uninspiring stream with poor water quality runs primarily through hilly farmland and is well-vegetated and treelined. This long, 185-mile section of the Green River is runnable, but has numerous powerboats, barges, locks, and dams. It is therefore less appealing to paddlers than the headwaters . Click here for information on canoe outfitters in this area.