Willow River (St. Croix River tributary) facts for kids
The Willow River is a river in St. Croix County, Wisconsin, United States. It is about 61.1-mile-long (98.3 km) and flows into the St. Croix River. The river starts in southern Polk County, near the village of Clear Lake.
At one time, the Willow River flowed freely into the lower St. Croix River between Hudson and North Hudson (44°59′18″N 92°45′46″W / 44.98833°N 92.76278°W). However, a dam was built at its mouth. A new, narrow channel was then dug above this dam to connect to the St. Croix River. This new channel also had a dam, and a mill was built to use the water power created by these two dams. Later, the Willow River Power Company built a power plant to make electricity using the same water power. But the amount of power it could make went down when the United States built the Red Wing Dam 30 miles (48 km) downstream on the Mississippi River.
Where is the Willow River?
The Willow River winds back and forth and flows slowly. In its upper parts, it goes through the Cylon Marsh State Wildlife Area. It then passes about one mile south of Deer Park.
Journey of the River
The river continues its journey through several towns and areas. It flows through New Richmond, Boardman, and Burkhardt. Near Burkhardt, the river enters Willow River State Park, a popular place for visitors.
Fun Things to Do on the Willow River
You can travel by boat on the Willow River north of the area called Burkhardt. There are places to get onto the river at New Richmond's Nature Center. If you like fishing, you're in luck! Every spring, rainbow trout and brook trout are added to the river at different spots. This makes it a great place for fishing.
