Kinnikinnick Creek facts for kids
Kinnikinnick Creek is a small, shallow stream in Ohio. It flows through parts of Pickaway and Ross Counties. This creek is a part of the larger Scioto River system. The area around the creek, including towns like Wisler and Kingston, is often called the Kinnikinnick Prairie.
Where Kinnikinnick Creek Flows
Kinnikinnick Creek has two main parts, like two arms joining together. The northern part starts near Leistville in Pickaway County. It flows south until it meets the southern part. The southern part begins in Ross County. After they join, the creek flows southwest. Finally, it empties into the Scioto River. This meeting point is north of Chillicothe, Ohio.
How the Creek Got Its Name
The creek gets its name from a special Native American plant mix called kinnikinnick. Long ago, before European settlers arrived, Native Americans used the creek a lot. It was a very important source of fresh water. Around the year 1800, when settlers moved into the area, Kinnikinnick Creek was still a key source of water. People used it for drinking and for watering their farm crops.
Importance of the Creek
Experts at The Ohio State University say that Kinnikinnick Creek is a major feeder for the Scioto River. This means it adds a lot of water to the bigger river. Parts of the creek are wide enough for people to explore by canoe.
