Clear Creek (Shoal Creek tributary) facts for kids
Clear Creek is a cool stream located in the southwestern part of Missouri. It flows through three different counties: Barry, Lawrence, and Newton. Clear Creek is a smaller stream that eventually flows into a larger one called Shoal Creek.
Where Does Clear Creek Start?
Every stream has a beginning, and Clear Creek's journey starts in the northwest part of Barry County. This starting point is called the headwaters. It's located on the west side of a place known as Kings Prairie. The land here is quite high, about 1,415 feet above sea level. You can find its exact starting spot at 36°53′33″N 93°52′06″W / 36.89250°N 93.86833°W.
Clear Creek's Journey
From its source, Clear Creek flows mainly towards the northwest. As it travels, it passes under a major road, U.S. Route 60. It also flows right through the southern edge of the city of Monett.
After leaving Monett, the stream enters the southwest corner of Lawrence County. It continues its path, passing just south of the town of Pierce City and going under Missouri Route 97.
Finally, Clear Creek makes its way into Newton County. Here, it flows north of a small community called Berwick. About 2.5 miles west of Berwick, and two miles east of Ritchey, Clear Creek reaches its end. This is where it joins Shoal Creek. This meeting point, called the confluence, is at 36°56′06″N 94°08′58″W / 36.93500°N 94.14944°W and is about 1,060 feet above sea level.
Why "Clear Creek"?
The name "Clear Creek" is quite simple and tells you something important about the stream! When the first settlers came to Lawrence County, they noticed how clean and see-through the water was. Because of its clear waters, they decided to name it Clear Creek, and the name has stuck ever since.
