Stonewall Jackson Lake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Stonewall Jackson Lake |
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 Stonewall Jackson Lake
Location in West Virginia
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| Location | Lewis County, West Virginia |
| Coordinates | 39°00′12″N 80°28′26″W / 39.00333°N 80.47389°W |
| Primary inflows | West Fork River |
| Primary outflows | West Fork River |
| Basin countries | United States |
| Surface area | 2,630 acres (1,060 ha) |
Stonewall Jackson Lake is a large lake in Lewis County, West Virginia. It was created by building a dam on the West Fork River. This lake covers about 2,630 acres, which is like 2,630 football fields!
The lake is named after Thomas "Stonewall" Jackson, a famous general who was born in Lewis County.
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About Stonewall Jackson Lake
Stonewall Jackson Lake is not a natural lake. It was formed by a dam built by the United States Army Corps of Engineers. This group helps manage water projects across the country.
Why Was the Lake Built?
The main reason for building Stonewall Jackson Lake was to control floods. The dam helps protect towns and cities downstream from too much water. This means places like Weston, Clarksburg, Shinnston, and Fairmont are safer from floods.
Fun Things to Do at the Lake
Stonewall Jackson Lake is a great place for outdoor activities. You can visit the Stonewall Resort located right by the lake.
The Army Corps of Engineers also provides helpful facilities. These include a visitors center with restrooms and a hiking trail. You can also find good spots for fishing.
Fishing at the Lake
Fishing is very popular at Stonewall Jackson Lake. Many people come here to catch largemouth bass.
Other types of fish you might find in the lake include:
- Crappie
- Walleye
- Bluegill
- Yellow perch
- Muskellunge
- Channel catfish
- Bullhead
- Carp
Just below the dam, in the water called the "tailwaters," trout are regularly added for fishing.
