The black and odorous water pollution in rural areas of China can affect the normal production, livelihoods, and health of rural residents. This problem also hinders the construction of beautiful rural areas. The formation and development of black and odorous water pollution in rural areas is relatively complex, hampered by the lack of objective material conditions in rural areas, and the inherent weaknesses of rural water bodies. Consequently, the efforts to combat black and odorous water pollution in rural areas face challenges in making swift progress and achieving tangible results. This article provides an overview of the factors contributing to the formation of rural black and odorous water pollution in China, along with a summary of the current state of pollution and control measures, and analyzes the development process of black and odorous water pollution with the specific environmental characteristics of rural areas. Aims to provide assistance for the future governance of rural black and odorous water pollution.