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South Fork of the Forked Deer River facts for kids

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South Fork of Forked Deer River
Country United States
State Tennessee
Physical characteristics
Main source Confluence of Huggins Creek and Tar Creek in Chester County
35°23′58″N 88°36′13″W / 35.39944°N 88.60361°W / 35.39944; -88.60361
River mouth Forked Deer River in Dyer County
35°59′49″N 89°26′5″W / 35.99694°N 89.43472°W / 35.99694; -89.43472

The South Fork of the Forked Deer River is a river located in Tennessee, United States. It's like a watery path that starts in one place and flows into bigger rivers. This river is an important part of the natural landscape in western Tennessee. It helps carry water across several counties before joining up with other rivers on its way to the mighty Mississippi River.

Where the River Begins

The South Fork of the Forked Deer River starts in the southern part of Chester County, Tennessee. It's formed when two smaller streams, Huggins Creek and Tar Creek, meet together. This meeting point is called a "confluence." From there, the river begins its journey, flowing mostly north.

Early Journey Through Chester County

After forming, the river flows north. It passes just to the east of a town called Henderson. This is where its adventure truly begins, as it gathers more water and grows wider.

Its Journey Through Tennessee

As the river continues its path, it changes direction and flows through several different counties in Tennessee. It travels through both rural areas and near towns.

Flowing into Madison County

After leaving Chester County, the river turns northwest. It then enters Madison County. Here, it flows near the town of Pinson. The river then continues its general northern flow, passing right through the city of Jackson. Jackson is one of the larger cities the river flows through.

Crossing More Counties

The South Fork of the Forked Deer River keeps moving across Madison County. Then, it enters Crockett County. The river's path can be a bit winding. It sometimes goes in and out of counties like Haywood County, Lauderdale County, and Dyer County.

Where It Ends Up

The journey of the South Fork of the Forked Deer River eventually leads it to join with other rivers. This is how its water makes its way to the ocean.

Joining the North Fork

Finally, the South Fork of the Forked Deer River reaches Dyer County. Here, it meets up with the North Fork. When these two forks combine, they form the main Forked Deer River.

Path to the Mississippi River

The newly formed Forked Deer River then flows into the Obion River. The Obion River, in turn, empties its waters into the huge Mississippi River. This means that the water from the small Huggins Creek and Tar Creek eventually travels all the way to the Gulf of Mexico, as part of the massive Mississippi River system!

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