Champlin Creek facts for kids

Champlin Creek is a special freshwater stream located on Long Island, New York. It flows between the towns of Islip and East Islip, eventually emptying into the Great South Bay. This creek is an important place for many fish and other wildlife.

What is Champlin Creek Like?

Champlin Creek is known for being very clean, cold, and natural. It's a freshwater stream that flows freely, meaning it hasn't been changed much by people. The creek is usually less than 6 feet (1.8 m) wide. Its bottom is mostly sandy, and you can see some plants growing in the water.

Where Does the Creek Flow?

The creek's important habitat for fish and wildlife stretches for about 3.5 miles. It starts near Knapps Lake, which is just north of Main Street. From there, it flows north towards its beginning, which is located north of the Southern State Parkway.

Surrounded by Nature and Homes

Around Champlin Creek, you'll find some areas of wet forest land. There are also suburban homes nearby. Even with some development, the creek has managed to stay mostly in its natural state.

Why is Champlin Creek Important?

Champlin Creek is one of only a few streams on Long Island that still flows freely and gets its water from natural springs. This makes it a very unique and valuable natural area.

Home to Wild Trout

This creek provides excellent conditions for fish to reproduce naturally. It is home to one of only about six known wild populations of brook trout on Long Island. Brook trout are native fish, meaning they have always lived in these waters.

Fishing Fun

Besides the native fish, the NYSDEC (New York State Department of Environmental Conservation) also adds other types of trout to the creek. They stock brown trout and rainbow trout here. This makes Champlin Creek a popular spot for fishing, attracting people from all over the county.

Where Can You Fish?

If you want to go fishing, you can find public access along the east side of Knapps Lake. You can also reach the creek at various road crossings.