South Grand River facts for kids

The South Grand River is a stream located in the western part of Missouri. It flows through several counties, including Bates, Cass, Henry, and Benton. This river is an important branch, also known as a tributary, of the larger Osage River.

Where the River Starts

The South Grand River begins in Cass County. Its starting point, called the headwaters, is where two smaller streams meet. These streams are Massey Creek and East Creek. This meeting point is about three miles east of Cleveland. It is also about five miles southwest of Peculiar.

The River's Journey

From its start, the South Grand River flows towards the southeast. It passes under Missouri Route 2 near the town of Freeman. It also goes under US Route 71 close to Archie.

Just southeast of Archie, the river changes direction. It turns east and forms the border between Cass and Bates counties. The river then flows through the Settles Ford Conservation Area. This area helps protect nature and wildlife.

After this, the river enters Henry County. It flows south of Urich and Missouri Route 7. The river then turns southeast again. It passes under Missouri Route 18 west of Clinton.

Joining Truman Reservoir

The South Grand River then flows into Truman Reservoir. This large lake is south of Clinton. The river's path continues as part of the lake. It goes under Missouri Route 13 south of Clinton.

The river's course then moves east into Benton County. Finally, it meets the Osage River. This meeting point is about one mile north of the Harry S Truman Dam.

River Flow

Near Brownington, the South Grand River has a measurement called its mean annual discharge. This means the average amount of water flowing in the river each second. On average, about 1,045 cubic feet of water flow past this point every second. That's like a lot of water moving very quickly!