Nolan River facts for kids

The Nolan River is a cool waterway in central Texas. It flows through Johnson County and Hill County. This river is also part of the larger Brazos River system.

The Nolan River starts in farmlands in northwest Johnson County. It flows about 10 miles east of the Brazos River. They run side-by-side for a while. The Nolan River travels about 27 miles southeast. It joins the Brazos River at Lake Whitney in Hill County, near the town of Blum, Texas.

Lake Pat Cleburne: A River Transformed

In 1961, a dam was built on the Nolan River. This dam is located near Highway 67, west of the city of Cleburne. The dam created a large lake called Lake Pat Cleburne. This lake now covers the old site of Wardville. Wardville was once the main town of Johnson County.

Lake Pat Cleburne is very important for the city of Cleburne. It provides drinking water for the city. The lake is also a popular spot for fun activities. People in the county enjoy fishing and boating there.

The River's Journey: Above and Below the Dam

The Nolan River changes quite a bit as it flows.

Above Lake Pat Cleburne

North of the dam, the Nolan River is a narrow stream. It has many trees along its banks. The water moves slowly and is not very deep. This part of the river flows mostly through private farmlands. It is a favorite spot for people who love to fish.

Below Lake Pat Cleburne

After the dam, the river looks different. It flows through areas with tall limestone cliffs. The river bottom is made of hard clay and gravel. Many large trees grow along the riverbanks.

The river below the dam carries a lot of water. This part of the Nolan River is home to many fish. You might also spot amazing birds like the great blue heron and the snowy egret. The river has sharp turns in some places. It does not have many long, straight sections.

This lower part of the Nolan River is great for canoeing and kayaking. Some areas have fast-moving water and rapids. These spots offer exciting challenges for people who enjoy water sports.

Buffalo Creek: A Main Branch

The Nolan River has one main branch, or tributary. This branch is called Buffalo Creek. It joins the Nolan River less than a mile southeast of Lake Pat Cleburne.

Philip Nolan: The River's Namesake

About four miles south of Rio Vista, on Highway 174, there is a special marker. This marker remembers Philip Nolan (1771–1801). It is located in Hill County. There is also a small cemetery nearby, hidden in the trees close to the river.

The Nolan River is named after Philip Nolan. He was known as a horse trader. He used to trade horses with the U.S. Army back in 1791.