North Fork Kaweah River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids North Fork Kaweah River |
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Map of the Kaweah River drainage basin
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| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Confluence of Dorst Creek and Stony Creek 5,389 ft (1,643 m) 36°38′38″N 118°50′44″W / 36.64389°N 118.84556°W |
| River mouth | Kaweah River Three Rivers 807 ft (246 m) 36°26′51″N 118°54′08″W / 36.44750°N 118.90222°W |
| Length | 21.4 mi (34.4 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | 138.4 sq mi (358 km2) |
The North Fork Kaweah River is a cool river in California. It flows for about 21.4 miles (34.4 km) through Tulare County. This river is a "tributary," which means it's a smaller river that flows into a bigger one. The North Fork Kaweah River joins the larger Kaweah River.
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Where the River Begins
The North Fork Kaweah River starts in a special place. It begins where two smaller streams meet. These streams are called Dorst Creek and Stony Creek. This meeting point is near the Dorst Creek Campground. This area is inside the amazing Sequoia National Park.
Journey Through the Park
After starting, the river flows west. It soon meets another important stream called Redwood Creek. Redwood Creek brings water from the Redwood Mountain Grove. This grove is super famous! It's home to the largest group of giant sequoia trees on Earth. Imagine seeing those huge, ancient trees!
The river then turns south. It flows through a wild and beautiful canyon. This canyon forms the western edge of Sequoia National Park. As it travels, it passes Yucca Creek. Yucca Creek flows from Crystal Cave, another cool spot in the park.
The River's End
The North Fork Kaweah River continues its journey south. It flows past the Three Rivers Airport. Finally, it empties into the main Kaweah River. This happens near the town of Three Rivers. The river's journey from high in the mountains to joining the larger Kaweah River is an important part of the local environment.
Why This River is Important
The North Fork Kaweah River is very important for many reasons. It provides water for plants and animals in the area. It also helps keep the giant sequoia groves healthy. The river's path through Sequoia National Park means it flows through a protected area. This helps keep its waters clean and its natural beauty safe for everyone to enjoy.
