French Creek (Cheyenne River tributary) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids French Creek |
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 Location of French Creek
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| States | South Dakota |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | confluence of North Fork French Creek and South Fork French Creek Black Hills 43°46′51″N 103°43′12″W / 43.780951°N 103.720116°W |
| River mouth | Cheyenne River Red Shirt, South Dakota 43°38′45″N 102°55′20″W / 43.645777°N 102.922106°W |
| Length | 62 mi (100 km) |
French Creek is a stream located in the western part of South Dakota, USA. It flows through the beautiful Black Hills region. This creek is a smaller stream that eventually joins the larger Cheyenne River. French Creek usually flows all year. However, when it's very dry, some of its water goes underground. This means it might not always reach the Cheyenne River.
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Where French Creek Flows
French Creek starts about 5 mi (8.0 km) northwest of Custer, South Dakota. It flows for about 62 mi (100 km) in total. The stream generally moves eastward through Custer State Park. It then empties into the Cheyenne River near a place called Red Shirt. This area is west of Badlands National Park.
French Creek in Custer State Park
Custer State Park has special areas along French Creek. There is a trail in the French Creek Natural Area. You can also find a horse camp right by the river. Further east, on the open prairie, there is a camping area called French Creek Camping Area. This area is part of a National Forest.
The History of French Creek
French Creek was likely named after the first trappers who explored the area. These trappers probably had French backgrounds. The creek became very famous in 1874.
Gold Discovery
In 1874, a group led by George Armstrong Custer was exploring the Black Hills. During this Black Hills Expedition, they found gold in French Creek! This exciting discovery started the famous Black Hills gold rush. Many people rushed to the area in the late 1870s hoping to find their own gold.
