Red Rock River (Montana) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Red Rock River |
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Upper Red Rock Lake near headwaters of Red Rock River
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| Country | Beaverhead County, Montana |
| Physical characteristics | |
| River mouth | 5,545 feet (1,690 m) 44°56′33″N 112°50′43″W / 44.94250°N 112.84528°W |
| Length | 70 miles (110 km) |
| Basin features | |
| River system | Missouri River |
| Basin size | 1,548 square miles (4,010 km2) |
The Red Rock River is a river in southwestern Montana, United States. It is about 70 miles (113 km) long. The area it drains, called its drainage basin, covers over 1,548 square miles (4,010 km2).
The river's farthest starting point is a small stream called Hell Roaring Creek. This creek begins in the Beaverhead National Forest. It is very close to the North American Continental Divide and the border between Montana and Idaho. This spot, near Brower's Spring, is about 9,100 feet (2,800 m) high. Brower's Spring is also near the beginning of the Missouri River, a very important river in the central United States.
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The Red Rock River's Journey
The Red Rock River's waters flow first north, then west. The stream changes its name to "Red Rock Creek" as it enters the Red Rock Lakes. These lakes are found in a wide, grassy valley. The main Red Rock River then flows out from the west side of Lower Red Rock Lake.
Where the River Flows
As the river continues west, many smaller streams join it. These include Peet Creek and Long Creek. The river then gets wider, forming the Lima Reservoir. After the reservoir, it flows through a narrow canyon. This canyon ends near Lima, Montana.
From Lima, the river turns northwest. It flows through another valley, passing by towns like Kidd and Red Rock. Finally, it flows into the Clark Canyon Reservoir.
How the River Connects to Bigger Rivers
Before the Clark Canyon Reservoir was built, the Red Rock River joined with Horse Prairie Creek. When these two met, they formed the Beaverhead River. The Beaverhead River is a branch of the Jefferson River. The Jefferson River is one of the main starting points for the huge Missouri River. So, the Red Rock River is an important part of a much larger river system!
Who Helps Protect the Red Rock River?
Many groups work to keep the Red Rock River and its surrounding areas healthy. They want to protect the natural resources, wildlife, and clean water.
- Jefferson River Watershed Council works with communities. They help protect the natural resources and quality of life in the Jefferson River area.
- Trout Unlimited focuses on protecting and restoring coldwater fish and their habitats. This includes rivers like the Red Rock.
- Western Watersheds Project aims to protect and restore western lands and wildlife. They do this through education and public efforts.
- Montana River Action works to protect and restore Montana's rivers and streams. They believe clean water is a right for everyone in Montana.
