Long Creek (White River tributary) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Long Creek |
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|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| State | Arkansas |
| Counties | Boone and Carroll |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | 2,090 ft (640 m) 36°12′12″N 93°17′00″W / 36.20333°N 93.28333°W |
| River mouth | 915 ft (279 m) 36°27′33″N 93°17′59″W / 36.45917°N 93.29972°W |
Long Creek is a cool stream located in the northwestern part of Arkansas. It flows through Boone and Carroll counties. This stream is like a smaller river that eventually joins a much bigger one. Long Creek flows into Table Rock Lake, which is part of the famous White River.
What is Long Creek?
Long Creek is a natural waterway. It starts high up in the beautiful Ozark Mountains in southwestern Boone County. A stream's starting point is called its headwaters. Imagine tiny trickles of water coming together to form a small creek. That's how Long Creek begins its journey!
This stream is a tributary. A tributary is a smaller river or stream that flows into a larger river or lake. So, Long Creek is a tributary to the White River system.
Where Does Long Creek Flow?
From its source, Long Creek flows generally northwest. It enters Carroll County and then turns north. The stream runs right next to U.S. Route 412 as it passes by the town of Carrollton.
After Carrollton, Long Creek turns northeast. It goes back into Boone County. It flows under the Route 62 and Route 412 roads where they run together, just east of Alpena.
The stream then meanders. This means it twists and turns back and forth. It crosses the line between Boone and Carroll counties many times. It flows past the community of Denver. Here, another stream called Dry Creek joins it. Long Creek continues north until it reaches the waters of Table Rock Lake.
Long Creek and Table Rock Lake
Before Table Rock Dam was built, Long Creek had a different path. It used to flow into the southwest corner of Taney County, Missouri. Then, it would meander further north into Stone County. There, it joined the White River. This was near where the dam is now, at about 720 feet above sea level.
When Table Rock Dam was finished and the lake filled up, the lower part of Long Creek became part of the lake. Now, Long Creek flows directly into Table Rock Lake. This lake is important for many reasons. It helps control floods and is a popular spot for fishing and boating.
You can find the Long Creek Recreation Area on Table Rock Lake. This area is just south of the Missouri Route 86 bridge. This bridge crosses the part of the lake where Long Creek flows in. It is located in the southwestern corner of Taney County, Missouri.
