West Clear Creek Wilderness facts for kids
Quick facts for kids West Clear Creek Wilderness |
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IUCN Category Ib (Wilderness Area)
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| Location | Yavapai / Coconino counties, Arizona, United States |
| Nearest city | Camp Verde, Arizona |
| Area | 15,238 acres (6,167 ha) |
| Established | 1984 |
| Governing body | U.S. Forest Service |
The West Clear Creek Wilderness is a special natural area in Arizona, USA. It covers a huge space of about 15,238 acres (that's like 6,167 football fields!). This wilderness is found east of Camp Verde and is part of the Coconino National Forest.
West Clear Creek itself is a stream formed by Willow Creek and Clover Creek. These creeks join together in a place called the Mogollon Rim. The Mogollon Rim is a big cliff edge that's part of the wider Colorado Plateau. People love to visit West Clear Creek for many fun activities. You can go swimming, camping, backpacking, hunting, fishing, and hiking. You'll also find many different plants and animals living here all year long. Be ready for the water, though – it's known for being extremely cold!
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Discovering West Clear Creek Wilderness
The West Clear Creek Wilderness is a protected area in central Arizona. It was officially made a wilderness area in 1984. This means the land is kept as wild as possible. It's a place where nature can thrive without much human interference.
What is a Wilderness Area?
A wilderness area is a special kind of protected land. It's part of the National Wilderness Preservation System. The main goal is to keep these places wild and untouched. This helps protect nature, animals, and plants. It also gives people a chance to experience nature in a very natural setting.
Where is West Clear Creek?
West Clear Creek is located in Arizona. It stretches across two different counties: Yavapai and Coconino. The nearest town is Camp Verde, Arizona. The area is managed by the United States Forest Service. They help make sure the wilderness stays healthy and safe for everyone.
Fun Activities to Do
West Clear Creek Wilderness is a great place for outdoor adventures.
- Swimming: The creek has clear, cool water, perfect for a refreshing dip on a hot day.
- Camping: You can set up a tent and spend the night under the stars.
- Backpacking: This involves hiking with all your gear on your back. You can explore deeper into the wilderness.
- Hiking: There are trails where you can walk and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
- Fishing: If you enjoy fishing, you might be able to catch some fish in the creek.
- Hunting: In certain seasons, hunting is allowed with the right permits.
Plants and Animals You Might See
The wilderness is home to many different kinds of plants and animals. Because the area has both water and varied landscapes, it supports a rich variety of life. You might spot different birds, mammals, and reptiles. The plants change with the seasons, offering new sights throughout the year. The cold water of the creek also supports unique aquatic life.
