Lake McCloud facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lake McCloud |
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![]() Looking north over McCloud Reservoir
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Location | Siskiyou County, California |
Coordinates | 41°07′52″N 122°04′14″W / 41.13111°N 122.07056°W |
Type | reservoir |
Primary inflows | McCloud River |
Primary outflows | McCloud River |
Basin countries | United States |
Surface area | 520 acres (210 ha) |
Water volume | 35,200 acre⋅ft (0.0434 km3) |
Surface elevation | 2,648 ft (807 m) |
Settlements | McCloud |
Lake McCloud is a beautiful reservoir (which is like a big, human-made lake) located in Northern California. It was created on the McCloud River to help control water flow. It also helps generate clean electricity for homes and businesses. It's a great spot for fishing, especially for trout!
Discovering Lake McCloud
Lake McCloud is a large, human-made lake in Northern California. It was formed by building a special dam across the McCloud River. This dam helps manage the river's water. It also plays a big role in making clean electricity. The lake is a popular place for outdoor activities.
Building the McCloud Dam
The McCloud Dam was finished in 1965. It was built by the Pacific Gas and Electric Company. The dam's main jobs are to control water flows. It also helps generate hydro-electric power. This means it uses the force of water to make electricity.
The McCloud Dam is quite large. It stands about 235 feet (71.6 meters) tall. It stretches 630 feet (192 meters) long at its top. The dam can hold a lot of water. Its maximum capacity is 35,200 acre-feet of water.
Fish and Wildlife
Lake McCloud is a fantastic place for fish. It is home to many rainbow and brown trout. These fish thrive here because the lake water stays cool all year. This cool temperature is perfect for trout to live and grow. Fishing is a popular activity on the lake.