Saline River (Ouachita River tributary) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Saline River |
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Location of the Saline River within the Ouachita watershed
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| Country | United States |
| State | Arkansas |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Ouachita Mountains, Saline County, Arkansas 259 ft (79 m) |
| River mouth | Ouachita River |
| Length | 202 mi (325 km) |
The Saline River, also known as Saline Creek, is a long river in Arkansas. It flows for about 202-mile (325 km) and is the longest river that stays completely within Arkansas! It eventually joins the Ouachita River.
The Saline River starts in the Ouachita Mountains in Arkansas. It's special because it's one of the last rivers in this area that flows freely, without many dams or changes. The river actually begins as four smaller streams: the South Fork, Middle Fork, Alum Fork, and North Fork. These streams all come together near the city of Benton.
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Journey of the Saline River
The Saline River changes a lot as it flows from the mountains to the bigger Ouachita River.
Mountain Streams
Near its start, the Saline River is a clear, cool stream. It has many fast-moving sections called shoals, mixed with calm, quiet pools. It's a great place for fish that like clear, cool water.
Middle and Lower Sections
As the river moves further, the water can become a bit murkier. It still has some faster parts, but also long, slow-moving pools. Closer to where it meets the Ouachita River, the Saline River becomes very slow and murky. Sometimes, the lower parts of the river can even get blocked by trees or brush.
Where the River Flows
After the smaller streams join, the river flows through several counties in Arkansas. It passes through Grant, Cleveland, Bradley, and Ashley counties.
The Saline River finally meets the Ouachita River in a marshy area. This area is inside the Felsenthal National Wildlife Refuge, which is a protected natural space.
Wildlife and Fun Activities
The Saline River is a very natural place, with not many buildings or towns along its banks. It flows through thick forests, making it a home for lots of amazing animals.
Animals of the River
You can find many different animals living near the Saline River. These include bears, deer, and smaller animals like mink, otters, beavers, and muskrats. Birds like turkeys and squirrels also live here. In the southern parts of the river, you might even spot alligators!
Fishing and Exploring
The river is a fantastic spot for fishing. You can catch many types of bass, like smallmouth, largemouth, and rock bass. Other fish include warmouth, sunfish, bluegills, channel catfish, and crappie.
Besides fishing, the Saline River is perfect for enjoying nature. People love to go floating down the river in boats or canoes to see the beautiful wilderness.
Historical Spot
There's a place called Jenkins' Ferry Historical Monument south of Sheridan. It's a nice spot for picnics and swimming. This monument remembers the Battle of Jenkins' Ferry, which was an important event during the American Civil War.
Images for kids
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Flood of 1927 in Arkansas.
