Mississippi Lake (Santa Clara County, California) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Mississippi Lake |
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 Mississippi Lake
Location in California
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| Location | Santa Clara County, California |
| Coordinates | 37°11′51″N 121°25′06″W / 37.19750°N 121.41833°W |
| Type | Reservoir |
Mississippi Lake is a large reservoir located in Henry W. Coe State Park in Santa Clara County, California. A reservoir is like a big, artificial lake where water is stored. This lake was created on Mississippi Creek and is the biggest reservoir you'll find within the park!
How Mississippi Lake Was Made
Mississippi Lake was formed in the 20th century. Workers built a dam across the valley of Mississippi Creek. This creek flows south through the Diablo Range mountains. When the dam was finished, the valley filled with water, creating the reservoir we see today.
The Lake's First Name
This reservoir wasn't always called Mississippi Lake. It was originally named Murray Lake. It got this name from its builder, Murray Hopkins. Murray Hopkins did more than just build the lake. He also built 59 miles of County Line Road. This road follows the high ground, or divide, of the Diablo Range. It stretches between San Antonio Valley and Fifield Ranch.
What You Can Do at Mississippi Lake
Today, Mississippi Lake is a great place for outdoor activities. You can go camping around the lake. It's also a popular spot for bass fishing. For visitors, there are restrooms, called vault toilets, available at both the south and northwest ends of the lake.
