The elevation of the drainage basin is 300 feet (91 m) above that of the springs, forming a natural standpipe that tends to stabilize the river's rate of flow.

The upper 11.5 miles (18.5 km) of the river are popular for catch-and-release fishing, whitewater rafting, picnicking, and camping.

The lower 17 miles (27 km) are on the boundary of the Warm Springs Indian Reservation, and flow by "a primitive area where motorized vehicles are not allowed."

[8][9] The Metolius River supports a broad cross-section of the wildlife present in the Central Oregon region.

[10] Migratory waterbirds such as the mallard and the Canada goose are common in the spring and summer, as are raptors such as the osprey and the red-tailed hawk.

A number of small resorts and shops cater to fishermen and other visitors, principally in the community of Camp Sherman.