Piankatank River facts for kids
The Piankatank River is a beautiful river located in the state of Virginia, USA. It stretches about 24 miles (39 kilometers) long. This river is special because it is mostly a tidal river, meaning its water levels change with the ocean's tides. It flows into the large Chesapeake Bay.
About the Piankatank River
The Piankatank River is found on a piece of land called the Middle Peninsula in Virginia. This area is a strip of land between two other important rivers: the Rappahannock River and the York River.
Where is it?
The Piankatank River forms a natural border between several counties. To the south, it borders Mathews County and Gloucester County. To the north, it borders Middlesex County.
The very beginning of the river, called its "head," connects with a place known as Dragon Swamp. The river is only crossed by one main road, Virginia State Route 3. This crossing is about 8 miles (13 kilometers) from where the river meets the Chesapeake Bay.
What is an Estuary?
The Piankatank River is mainly an estuary. An estuary is a special place where fresh water from rivers mixes with salty ocean water. This creates a unique environment. Estuaries are often very important homes for many different kinds of plants and animals. They are like nurseries for young fish and crabs.
History of the River
The Piankatank River has been an important waterway for a long time. During the American Civil War, which happened in the United States from 1861 to 1865, the river was a place where many events took place. Its location made it useful for moving people and supplies.
