San Luis Rey River facts for kids
Quick facts for kids San Luis Rey River |
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River mouth from North Coast Hwy bridge.
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| Country | United States |
| State | California |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Lake Henshaw reservoir Confluence of West Fork San Luis Rey River and Buena Vista Creek, Cleveland National Forest, San Diego County 2,627 ft (801 m) 33°24′02″N 116°37′26″W / 33.40056°N 116.62389°W |
| River mouth | Pacific Ocean Oceanside, San Diego County 0 ft (0 m) 33°12′08″N 117°23′32″W / 33.20222°N 117.39222°W |
| Length | 69 mi (111 km), East-west |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | 557 sq mi (1,440 km2) |
| Tributaries |
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The San Luis Rey River is a river in southern California, United States. It starts in the Cleveland National Forest, near Palomar Mountain. The river flows south into a large lake called Lake Henshaw. From there, it turns west and travels all the way to the Pacific Ocean.
The river is about 55 miles (89 km) long. The land area that drains into the river, called its watershed, covers 562 square miles. The water in the upper part of the river is clean enough for drinking. However, the lower part of the river has some pollution.
Contents
About the San Luis Rey River
The San Luis Rey River is an important natural feature in San Diego County. It helps support many plants and animals. The river's journey from mountains to the ocean shows how water connects different parts of the land.
Where the River Starts
The river begins in the Cleveland National Forest. This area is known for its beautiful mountains and forests. Several small streams come together to form the main river.
Lake Henshaw: A Key Stop
As the river flows south, it reaches Lake Henshaw. This lake is a reservoir, which means it's a place where water is collected and stored. It's an important source of water for the area.
Journey to the Pacific Ocean
After Lake Henshaw, the San Luis Rey River turns west. It flows through different landscapes before reaching the city of Oceanside. Here, the river finally meets the Pacific Ocean. This meeting point is called the river's mouth.
Nearby Rivers
The San Luis Rey River is one of several rivers that flow into the Pacific Ocean along the coast of California.
Rivers to the North
Rivers to the South
Images for kids
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Pacific St and mouth of river
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Former causeway across mouth of river
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Lake Henshaw from Mesa Grande Rd
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Lake Henshaw from road to Love Valley
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Lake Henshaw from lookout on County Highway S7
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Underneath the Benet Rd bridge after several days of intense rainfall in winter 2010
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Underneath the Benet Rd bridge as seen most of the year
