Arkansas River facts for kids

The Arkansas River is a long river in the United States. It flows towards the southeast and is a major branch, or tributary, of the mighty Mississippi River. It stretches for about 1,469 miles (2,364 kilometers). This makes it the sixth longest river in the United States!

The Arkansas River starts high up in the mountains of Colorado. From there, it flows through the states of Kansas and Oklahoma. Finally, it joins the Mississippi River in the state of Arkansas. The state of Arkansas was actually named after this important river. Large boats can travel up the Arkansas River as far as Oklahoma.

Where Does the River Flow?

The journey of the Arkansas River begins in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. It starts as a small stream and grows bigger as it travels. As it leaves Colorado, the river enters the flat plains of Kansas. It then moves into Oklahoma, where it becomes wider and deeper. Its long path ends when it meets the Mississippi River. This meeting point is in the state of Arkansas.

Main Branches of the River

The Arkansas River has several important branches that flow into it. These are called tributaries. They add more water to the main river. Some of its biggest tributaries include the Canadian River, the Cimarron River, and the Salt Fork Arkansas River. These rivers help make the Arkansas River one of the largest in the country.

Images for kids

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  The headwaters of the Arkansas near Leadville, Colorado

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  Navigable inland waterway system with McClellan-Kerr Navigational Channel shown in red

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  Arkansas River in Colorado, with Mount Harvard in distance, circa 1867. Photo by William Henry Jackson.

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  Fly fishermen on the Arkansas River near Salida, Colorado

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  Arkansas River between Van Buren and Fort Smith, Arkansas

See also

In Spanish: Río Arkansas para niños