Knob Creek (Stouts Creek tributary) facts for kids

Knob Creek is a small stream in the state of Missouri, United States. It flows through two counties: Iron County and St. Francois County. Knob Creek is a "tributary," which means it's a smaller stream that flows into a larger one. In this case, it flows into Stouts Creek.

Knob Creek: A Missouri Stream

Knob Creek is an interesting part of Missouri's natural landscape. It's a great example of how small streams help make up bigger river systems. Learning about streams like Knob Creek helps us understand more about our environment.

Where Does Knob Creek Begin?

Every stream has a starting point, called its "headwaters." Knob Creek begins high up on the side of Oak Mountain. This area is about 1,400 feet (427 meters) above sea level. Imagine water trickling down from the mountain, slowly gathering to form the beginning of the stream.

Following Knob Creek's Journey

From Oak Mountain, Knob Creek starts its journey. It flows towards the west and then southwest. It passes by a small valley near a place called Lopez. This is about one mile south of Middlebrook in St. Francois County.

As the stream continues, it crosses into Iron County. Here, it changes direction and flows south-southeast. It then flows past two towns: Pilot Knob and Ironton. These towns are important landmarks along the stream's path.

Where Knob Creek Joins Another Stream

Knob Creek's journey ends when it reaches its "confluence." This is the spot where it joins another, larger stream. For Knob Creek, its journey finishes when it flows into Stouts Creek. This meeting point is where the waters of Knob Creek become part of Stouts Creek.

How Knob Creek Got Its Name

Knob Creek was named after a famous landmark along its course. This landmark is a hill called Pilot Knob. A "knob" is a rounded hill or mountain. So, the stream flowing near this notable hill became known as Knob Creek.