It is endemic to central Yunnan, China, where it occurs in Jingdong County and Shuangbai County.

[2] This rare frog inhabits forest streams.

It is threatened primarily by collection for human consumption.

[1] It is currently protected by the Ailaoshan and Wuliangshan National Nature Reserves.

Nanorana maculosa are relatively large frogs: males grow to a snout–vent length of about 86 mm (3.4 in) and females to 83 mm (3.3 in).