Centennial Wash (Maricopa County) facts for kids

Centennial Wash is a special kind of stream in central Arizona. It's called an ephemeral wash, which means it's usually dry. Water only flows through it after heavy rain.

Centennial Wash is the last major stream that joins the Gila River before the Gila River turns south. After Centennial Wash meets the Gila, the Gila River flows south, then southwest. It eventually leaves Arizona and reaches the California border near Yuma.

What is Centennial Wash?

Centennial Wash is like a natural channel or riverbed. It collects rainwater from a large area. This area is called a drainage basin or watershed. When it rains a lot, water rushes through the wash. This water then flows into the Gila River.

Where is Centennial Wash Located?

The Gila River system in Arizona. The Salt River and Verde River join together near Phoenix. Centennial Wash flows into the Gila River from the northwest, near the Gila Bend Mountains.

Centennial Wash is in central Arizona. It's located next to another important stream called the Hassayampa River. The Hassayampa River flows south, just east of Centennial Wash. Even further east is the Agua Fria River.

As the Gila River continues its journey south, it reaches a place called the Painted Rock Reservoir. The areas where Centennial Wash and the Hassayampa River collect water are right next to the Gila River's path near this reservoir.