List of rivers of Washington, D.C. facts for kids
List of rivers and creeks of Washington, D.C. (District of Columbia), sorted alphabetically.
Washington, D.C., the capital city of the United States, is a vibrant place with many important waterways. These rivers and creeks are not just pretty to look at; they play a huge role in the city's history, environment, and even its daily life. From the mighty Potomac River to smaller, hidden streams, these waterways provide homes for wildlife, offer places for recreation, and help manage the city's water. Understanding these natural features helps us appreciate the unique geography of D.C.
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Major Rivers of Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., is defined by its two main rivers: the Potomac and the Anacostia. These rivers have shaped the city's development and continue to be vital to its ecosystem.
The Potomac River
The Potomac River is one of the most important rivers in the eastern United States. It forms the southwestern border of Washington, D.C., separating it from Virginia. This large river has been a pathway for trade and transportation for centuries. It also provides drinking water for millions of people in the region. Many smaller creeks and streams in D.C. flow directly into the Potomac.
The Anacostia River
The Anacostia River flows through the eastern part of Washington, D.C., before joining the Potomac River. For a long time, the Anacostia faced pollution challenges, but there are now many efforts to clean it up. The river is a home for various fish and birds, and its banks are becoming popular spots for parks and trails. Many smaller waterways in the city are tributaries of the Anacostia.
Creeks and Streams Flowing into the Potomac River
Many smaller waterways in Washington, D.C., eventually flow into the mighty Potomac River. These creeks and runs are important parts of the local ecosystem, providing habitats and helping to drain rainwater from the city.
- Bingham Run
- Broad Branch
- Dumbarton Oaks
- Fenwick Branch
- Fletchers Run
- Foundry Branch
- Klingle Run
- Luzon Branch
- Maddox Branch
- Melvin Hazen Valley Branch
- Milkhouse Run
- Normanstone Creek
- Pinehurst Branch
- Piney Branch
- Portal Branch
- Rock Creek
- Soapstone Branch
- Stickfoot Branch
Rock Creek: A Major Urban Stream
Rock Creek is one of the largest and most well-known streams in Washington, D.C. It flows through Rock Creek Park, a huge urban park that offers a natural escape within the city. The park and creek provide trails for hiking and biking, and the creek itself is home to many types of fish and other wildlife. It's a great example of how nature can thrive even in a busy city.
Creeks and Streams Flowing into the Anacostia River
The Anacostia River receives water from several creeks and streams that wind through different neighborhoods of Washington, D.C. These waterways are crucial for the health of the Anacostia watershed.
- Barnaby Run
- Fort Chaplin Tributary
- Fort Dupont Tributary
- Fort Stanton Tributary
- Gallatin Run
- Hickey Run
- Lower Beaverdam Creek
- Nash Run
- Oxon Creek
- Oxon Run
- Piney Run
- Pope Branch
- Texas Avenue Tributary
- Watts Branch
- Winkle Doodle Run
Historical Waterways of Washington, D.C.
Some waterways that once flowed through Washington, D.C., no longer exist in their original form. Many were covered over or redirected as the city grew and developed. These "lost" streams tell us about the city's past and how its landscape has changed over time.
- Bennings Branch (historical)
- Davis Branch (historical)
- Deep Branch (historical)
- Duck Creek (historical)
- Gillam Branch (historical)
- James Creek (historical)
- Lost Stream
- Reedy Branch (historical)
- Tiber Creek (Goose Creek)
The Story of Tiber Creek
Tiber Creek was once a significant natural stream that flowed through the heart of what is now downtown Washington, D.C. As the city was planned and built, much of Tiber Creek was enclosed in underground pipes to create land for buildings and streets. Today, it mostly flows beneath the city, a hidden reminder of D.C.'s natural past.
Other Important Waterways and Canals
Beyond the natural rivers and creeks, Washington, D.C., also has important man-made waterways and channels that have played a role in its history and transportation.
The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal
The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, often called the C&O Canal, is a historic waterway that runs alongside the Potomac River. Built in the 19th century, it was used to transport goods like coal and timber. Today, it's a national historical park, popular for walking, biking, and learning about the region's past.
The Washington Channel
The Washington Channel is a man-made waterway that connects the Potomac River to the Anacostia River. It provides access to the city's waterfront and is home to marinas and the popular Wharf area, where people can enjoy restaurants and entertainment.
