Lake Wappapello facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lake Wappapello |
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 Lake Wappapello
Location in Missouri
Lake Wappapello
Location in the United States
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| Location | Wayne / Butler counties, Missouri, United States |
| Coordinates | 36°57′22″N 90°19′23″W / 36.956°N 90.323°W |
| Type | reservoir |
| Primary inflows | St. Francis River |
| Primary outflows | St. Francis River |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Surface elevation | 358 feet (109 m) |
Lake Wappapello is a large, man-made lake in Missouri, United States. It was created in 1941 by building the Wappapello Dam across the St. Francis River. This lake covers about 8,400 acres (34 square kilometers).
You can find Lake Wappapello about 120 miles (193 kilometers) south of St. Louis. Most of the lake is in Wayne County. The part closest to the dam stretches into northern Butler County. The United States Army Corps of Engineers owns and manages both the dam and the lake. They make sure it's safe and useful for everyone.
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Discover Lake Wappapello
Lake Wappapello was built for a very important reason: to control floods. When heavy rains cause rivers to swell, the dam holds back the water. This helps protect towns and farms downstream from flooding.
Fun Things to Do at Lake Wappapello
Even though flood control is its main job, Lake Wappapello is also a popular spot for fun activities. Many people visit to enjoy the outdoors.
Boating and Water Sports
The lake is a great place for boating. You can bring your own boat or rent one. Many people enjoy water skiing, tubing, or just cruising around the lake.
Fishing Adventures
Fishing is a big draw at Lake Wappapello. The lake is home to many different kinds of fish. Some of the most common fish you can catch include:
Swimming and Camping
If you love to swim, there are designated swimming areas where you can cool off on a hot day. For those who enjoy spending more time outdoors, camping is also a popular option. There are many campsites around the lake where you can pitch a tent or park an RV.
Lake Wappapello State Park
On the southwestern side of the lake, you'll find Lake Wappapello State Park. This park offers even more ways to enjoy nature. It has trails for hiking, picnic areas, and more opportunities for fishing and camping. It's a wonderful place to explore the natural beauty of Missouri.
