Ochoco Creek facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ochoco Creek |
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Ochoco Creek Park in Prineville
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 Location of the mouth of Ochoco Creek in Oregon
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| Country | United States |
| State | Oregon |
| County | Crook County and Wheeler County |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | near Ochoco Spring Ochoco National Forest, Wheeler County, Oregon 5,428 ft (1,654 m) 44°26′51″N 120°19′38″W / 44.44750°N 120.32722°W |
| River mouth | Crooked River Prineville, Crook County, Oregon 2,838 ft (865 m) 44°19′19″N 120°53′28″W / 44.32194°N 120.89111°W |
| Length | 30 mi (48 km) |
Ochoco Creek is a beautiful creek in Oregon, United States. It flows for about 30 miles (48 km) and is an important part of the local environment. This creek eventually joins the Crooked River.
Ochoco Creek is part of a much larger water system. Its waters eventually flow into the Columbia River, which is one of the biggest rivers in North America. The creek gets its name from a Northern Paiute leader from the 1800s.
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Where Ochoco Creek Begins
Ochoco Creek starts high up in the Ochoco National Forest. This forest is located in Wheeler County, Oregon. The creek begins near a place called Ochoco Spring.
From its source, the creek flows generally southwest. It then turns west for most of its journey. It travels through Crook County before reaching its end.
The Creek's Journey
As Ochoco Creek flows, it passes through different landscapes. It starts in the wild Ochoco National Forest. Here, it is joined by many smaller streams. These streams add water to the creek as it travels.
Some of these smaller streams include Camp Creek, Aholt Creek, and McAllister Creek. Other streams like Judy, Fisher, and Canyon creeks also join in. Further along, Coyle Creek and Metal Creek add their waters.
Ochoco Reservoir and Lake
A significant part of the creek's journey is through the Ochoco Reservoir. This reservoir is a large lake formed by a dam. It's a popular spot for outdoor activities.
Before reaching the reservoir, more streams flow into Ochoco Creek. These include Garden Creek, Douthit Creek, and Salmon Creek. Inside the reservoir, Mill Creek also joins the main flow.
Flowing Towards Prineville
After leaving the reservoir, Ochoco Creek continues its journey west. It flows past the Prineville Golf and Country Club. Then, it enters the town of Prineville.
In Prineville, you can find Ochoco Creek Park. This park is a lovely place where the creek flows right through. It's a great spot for people to enjoy nature.
Joining the Crooked River
After passing through Prineville, the creek turns northwest. It soon reaches its final destination. Ochoco Creek flows into the Crooked River.
The Crooked River then continues its journey. It eventually joins the Deschutes River. Finally, the Deschutes River flows into the mighty Columbia River. This shows how all these waterways are connected.
