Conewago Creek (east) facts for kids

Conewago Creek is a stream that flows for about 23 miles (37 km) in Pennsylvania, United States. It starts high up in Lebanon County, near Mount Gretna Heights. The creek then flows into the Susquehanna River. This happens where Dauphin and Lancaster counties meet, close to the village of Falmouth.

What's in a Name?

The name Conewago Creek comes from the Lenape people. Their word means "at the rapids." These rapids are called Conewago Falls and are found in the Susquehanna River. Another stream, also named Conewago Creek, flows into the Susquehanna River nearby. It is only about 1.6 miles (2.6 km) south of this creek.

Where Does the Creek Flow?

Conewago Creek generally flows towards the southwest. It begins in West Cornwall Township in Lebanon County. The creek then passes through the town of Mount Gretna. It also goes through South Londonderry Township and Timber Hills.

As the creek leaves Lebanon County, it forms a border. It separates Dauphin County to the north from Lancaster County to the south. In Dauphin County, the creek flows by Conewago Township and Londonderry Township. In Lancaster County, it passes by Mount Joy Township and West Donegal Township. It also flows just north of Elizabethtown and through Conoy Township.

Understanding the Watershed

A watershed is an area of land where all the water drains into a single stream or river. The Conewago Creek watershed covers about 52.5 square miles (136 sq km). This entire area is part of the larger Chesapeake Bay drainage system.

About 53% of the land in the watershed is used for agriculture. Some parts of Conewago Creek are "impaired." This means they are too polluted to support healthy fish and other water life. This problem affects about 15.8 miles (25.4 km) of the creek. Other smaller streams that flow into Conewago Creek are also affected. The main causes of this pollution are surface runoff from farms and sediment.

Creek Branches (Tributaries)

Smaller streams that flow into Conewago Creek are called tributaries. They include:

• Little Conewago Creek
• Hoffer Creek
• Brills Run
• Lynch Run

Fun Things to Do at Conewago Creek

Conewago Creek offers many fun activities for people who love the outdoors.

Water Activities

If the water levels are high enough, usually in spring or after heavy rain, you can go canoeing or kayaking. There are about 11.6 miles (18.7 km) of exciting whitewater sections. These parts of the creek are great for experienced paddlers.

Hiking Trails

Several hiking trails are found in the Conewago Creek area. These include the Conewago Recreational Trail and the Lebanon Valley Rails-to-Trail. The famous Horse Shoe Trail also passes through this region.

Hunting, Trapping, and Fishing

You can enjoy public hunting and trapping in Pennsylvania State Game Lands No. 145. This area covers about 2,793 acres (1,130 ha) in Lebanon County.

For those who love to fish, Conewago Creek is a great spot. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission has marked parts of the creek as approved trout waters. This means the creek is stocked with trout, and you can fish for them during trout season.