Rock Creek (Catlow Valley) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Rock Creek |
|
|---|---|
 Location of the mouth of Rock Creek in Oregon
|
|
| Country | United States |
| State | Oregon |
| County | Lake, Harney |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Hart Mountain Lake County 6,914 ft (2,107 m) 42°26′57″N 119°41′33″W / 42.44917°N 119.69250°W |
| River mouth | Catlow Valley Harney County 4,557 ft (1,389 m) 42°39′41″N 119°10′08″W / 42.66139°N 119.16889°W |
| Length | 56 mi (90 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | 269 sq mi (700 km2) |
Rock Creek is a stream in the U.S. state of Oregon. It flows for about 56 miles (90 km) through Lake and Harney counties. This creek is known as an intermittent stream. This means that water does not always flow in it all year round. Parts of the creek can dry up, especially during hot or dry seasons.
About Rock Creek
Rock Creek begins high up on Hart Mountain in Lake County. The water starts at an elevation of about 6,914 feet (2,107 meters). From there, it flows downhill until it reaches its end in the Catlow Valley. The mouth of the creek is at an elevation of about 4,557 feet (1,389 meters).
The area that collects water for Rock Creek is called its watershed. This watershed covers a large area of about 269 square miles (697 square kilometers).
Where Rock Creek Flows
From its start, Rock Creek generally flows towards the northeast. Some parts of the creek flow north, while others flow east. It travels across the Hart Mountain National Antelope Refuge. This refuge is a protected area for wildlife.
The creek flows through a place called Hot Springs Campground. Here, another smaller stream named Bond Creek joins Rock Creek from the right side. Downstream from the campground, the creek passes by Antelope Hot Springs.
Further along, Rock Creek flows through the refuge headquarters. It goes under Frenchglen Road at this point. The creek then runs roughly next to Poker Jim Ridge, which is on its left. Finally, it heads east into Rock Creek Reservoir. After the reservoir, it flows into the Catlow Valley.
Catlow Valley: A Special Basin
The Catlow Valley is a very interesting place. It is what scientists call a closed basin. This means that the water that flows into the valley, like from Rock Creek, does not have an outlet to the sea. Instead, the water either sinks into the ground or evaporates. This creates a unique environment for plants and animals.
