Muddy Creek (Linn County, Oregon) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Muddy Creek |
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 Location of the mouth of Muddy Creek in Oregon
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| Country | United States |
| State | Oregon |
| County | Linn and Lane |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Coburg Ridge near Coburg, Lane County 1,611 ft (491 m) 44°07′19″N 123°00′04″W / 44.12194°N 123.00111°W |
| River mouth | Willamette River East Channel, Linn County 210 ft (64 m) 44°32′14″N 123°13′19″W / 44.53722°N 123.22194°W |
Muddy Creek is a small river, also called a tributary, that flows into the Willamette River in Oregon, United States. It starts near Coburg Ridge, which is northeast of Eugene. The creek then winds its way north across the flat land of the Willamette Valley. It flows generally next to the Willamette River. Finally, Muddy Creek joins the East Channel of the Willamette River, just before reaching the city of Corvallis.
Why is it Called Muddy Creek?
Pioneer settlers gave Muddy Creek its name because its water often looked muddy. The book Oregon Geographic Names describes it as a "sluggish stream." This means the water moves slowly. Because it moves so slowly, it's easy for the water to pick up mud and dirt from the bottom and sides of the creek. The name "Muddy Creek" was first written down in 1857.
Other Creeks Like It
Muddy Creek has a few smaller streams that flow into it. These are called its main tributaries. They are Dry Muddy Creek and Little Muddy Creek. There is also another creek named Muddy Creek in the area. This other creek is on the western side of the Willamette River. It also has muddy water and flows into Marys River. Marys River then joins the Willamette River near Corvallis.
