Salt Creek (Sangamon River tributary) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Salt Creek |
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|---|---|
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | McLean County west of Saybrook, Illinois 40°25′17″N 88°34′00″W / 40.4214229°N 88.5667283°W |
| River mouth | Confluence with the Sangamon River, Mason County, Illinois 469 ft (143 m) 40°07′33″N 89°49′32″W / 40.1258791°N 89.8256661°W |
| Length | 112 mi (180 km) |
| Basin features | |
| Progression | Salt Creek → Sangamon → Illinois → Mississippi → Gulf of Mexico |
| GNIS ID | 426594 |
Salt Creek is an important river in Illinois, USA. It's a major tributary to the Sangamon River. A tributary is a smaller stream or river that flows into a larger one. Salt Creek joins the Sangamon River where Mason and Menard County, Illinois meet.
This Salt Creek is about 110 miles (180 km) long. It starts near Saybrook, Illinois and flows generally west. It eventually meets the Sangamon River near Greenview, Illinois.
One of the biggest lakes formed by Salt Creek is Clinton Lake. This lake is near Clinton, Illinois. It's important because it provides cooling water for the Clinton Nuclear Generating Station. This power plant uses the water to help keep its systems cool while it makes electricity.
Long ago, the lower parts of Salt Creek formed the border between Mason and Menard counties. Over time, parts of the creek were changed by people to make it straighter. This is called "channelization." So, the creek's path today only roughly follows the old county line. Salt Creek has several smaller rivers that flow into it, including Sugar Creek, Kickapoo Creek, and the North Fork of Salt Creek.
Which Towns and Counties Does Salt Creek Flow Through?
Salt Creek and its smaller streams help drain water from many cities, towns, and villages. This means the water from these places eventually flows into Salt Creek.
The Salt Creek watershed also covers parts of several Illinois counties. A watershed is an area of land where all the water drains into a common river or lake.
Where Can You Visit Salt Creek?
There are several parks and natural areas where you can enjoy the outdoors near Salt Creek. These places offer opportunities for activities like fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching.
- Clinton Lake State Recreation Area
- Edward R. Madigan State Fish and Wildlife Area
- Kickapoo Creek County Park
- Moraine View State Recreation Area
- Weldon Springs State Park
