Rock River (Big Sioux River tributary) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Rock River |
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| Country | United States |
| State | Iowa, Minnesota |
| District | Sioux County, Iowa, Lyon County, Iowa, Rock County, Minnesota, Pipestone County, Minnesota |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | 44°08′13″N 96°07′23″W / 44.1369°N 96.1231°W |
| River mouth | Big Sioux River 1,168 ft (356 m) 43°04′58″N 96°27′16″W / 43.0827°N 96.4545°W |
The Rock River is a cool river that flows for about 144 miles (232 km) through parts of Minnesota and Iowa in the United States. It's like a smaller stream that joins a bigger one, called a tributary. The Rock River flows into the Big Sioux River. From there, its water travels to the Missouri River and then all the way to the mighty Mississippi River. This means it's part of a huge water system!
The river got its name from a very tall, rocky hill nearby. This hill is about 175 feet (53 meters) high and is made of reddish-gray rock called Sioux Quartzite. You can find this special rock formation in Blue Mounds State Park in Minnesota.
Contents
Where Does the Rock River Flow?
The Rock River begins its journey in Pipestone County, Minnesota. This is about 13 miles (21 km) northeast of the town of Pipestone.
Rock River's Path Through States
- It first flows south through Rock County, Minnesota.
- Then it continues into Lyon County, Iowa.
- After that, it turns southwest and enters Sioux County, Iowa.
- Finally, it joins the Big Sioux River in Sioux County, about 6 miles (10 km) north of Hawarden.
Towns Along the Rock River
As the Rock River winds its way, it passes by several towns.
- In Minnesota, you'll find it near Holland, Edgerton, Luverne, and Ash Creek.
- In Iowa, the river flows by Rock Rapids, Doon, and Rock Valley.
What Are the Rock River's Tributaries?
A tributary is like a smaller river or stream that flows into a larger river. The Rock River has a few of these helper streams.
East Branch Rock River
- In its northern part in Minnesota, the Rock River gets water from the East Branch Rock River.
- This branch is about 15 miles (24 km) long and stays entirely within Pipestone County.
Little Rock River
- When the Rock River reaches Iowa, it is joined by the Little Rock River.
- This happens just south of the town of Doon.
