Mountain Fork facts for kids
The Mountain Fork river, also called the Mountain Fork of the Little River, is a long river in the United States. It flows through western Arkansas and southeastern Oklahoma. This river is about 98 miles (158 km) long. It's a tributary (a smaller river that flows into a larger one) of the Little River.
The Mountain Fork is part of a huge watershed. This means its water eventually flows into the Red River. From there, it joins the mighty Mississippi River.
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Where the Mountain Fork Flows
The Mountain Fork river begins in the Ouachita Mountains. This is in Le Flore County, Oklahoma. From there, it flows southeast into Polk County, Arkansas.
Then, the river turns southwest. It enters McCurtain County, Oklahoma. Here, it changes direction again and flows south. Finally, it joins the Little River in McCurtain County. This meeting point is about 10 miles (16 km) southeast of Broken Bow.
In its early parts, the river flows through the Ouachita National Forest. Further downstream in McCurtain County, a dam creates Broken Bow Lake. A smaller stream called Nancy Branch also flows into the Mountain Fork.
Fun on the Mountain Fork River
The Mountain Fork river is a great place for outdoor adventures! People enjoy canoeing, kayaking, and fishing here.
Upper Mountain Fork Adventures
The upper part of the Mountain Fork river is perfect for canoeing or kayaking. You can paddle for about 31.7 miles (51 km). This section goes from near Hatfield, Arkansas to Broken Bow Lake.
The river here has clear water and some exciting rapids. These are mostly Class I and II rapids, which are good for beginners. You can also fish for Smallmouth bass and other types of fish. The scenery is beautiful, with pine forests covering the hills. There's usually enough water for boating all year.
Near the upper part of Broken Bow Lake is the McCurtain County Wilderness Area. This is a special area owned by Oklahoma. It covers about 14,000 acres (5,666 ha). It has the largest remaining natural Shortleaf pine and hardwood forest in the country.
Lower Mountain Fork Excitement
Below the Broken Bow dam and lake, the river offers more thrills. This lower section is about 18.8 miles (30 km) long. Many people say it's the best whitewater stream in Oklahoma.
You'll find Class I and II rapids here too. There are even waterfalls with a drop of about four feet (1.2 meters). Bald Cypress trees grow along and sometimes even in the river.
The water below the dam is cool all year round. This makes it a perfect home for Rainbow trout and Brown trout. These fish are regularly added to the river. In 2008, a very large Brown Trout, weighing over 17 pounds (7.8 kg), was caught here!
