Jacks Fork facts for kids
The Jacks Fork is a beautiful river in Missouri. It is one of two rivers that are part of the special Ozark National Scenic Riverways system. This system helps protect these amazing rivers and the nature around them.
The Jacks Fork river starts in Texas County, Missouri. It gets its water from natural springs, so it's always fresh and clear! The river flows for about 46 miles (74 km). It generally moves towards the east and northeast. This journey takes it through the heart of a unique area called the Lower Ozark Natural Division. The Jacks Fork is a major tributary (a smaller river that flows into a larger one) of the Current River. It joins the Current River near Eminence, Missouri.
Exploring Jacks Fork
The first 25 miles (40 km) of the Jacks Fork are in a deep valley. In springtime, this part of the river has "Class II" water. This means the water moves at a medium speed with some small waves. It's a bit more challenging for boats. This section is also very wild because it's hard to reach.
From Alley Spring to where it meets the Current River, the Jacks Fork is a "Class I" river. This means the water is mostly calm and easy to float on. You can float on this part of the river all year long. The water stays warm, which is great for swimming and paddling.
The Jacks Fork offers some of the most natural and untouched places in the region. You can find many cool caves and natural springs along its banks. It's a very popular spot for people who love to canoe and kayak. Most of the river is considered a Class I-II difficulty. This means it's usually easy to paddle, but some parts have small rapids that make it more exciting!
The Jacks Fork river is named after John Jacks. He was a local Native American pioneer citizen.
River Location
- Mouth: The Jacks Fork river joins the Current River in Shannon County, Missouri.
37°11′24″N 91°16′38″W / 37.19005°N 91.27735°W
- Source: The river begins where the North Prong and South Prong meet in Texas County, Missouri.
37°04′34″N 91°43′57″W / 37.07616°N 91.73237°W
