Wood River (Illinois) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Wood River |
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|---|---|
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Confluence of the West and East Forks 2.4 mi (3.9 km) above the mouth 38°53′26″N 90°06′54″W / 38.8906033°N 90.1151075°W |
| River mouth | Confluence with the Mississippi River near East Alton 404 ft (123 m) 38°51′38″N 90°07′44″W / 38.8605°N 90.1289°W |
| Length | 2.4 mi (3.9 km) |
| Basin features | |
| GNIS ID | 421411 |
| East Fork Wood River | |
|---|---|
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Macoupin County north of Bunker Hill 39°04′48″N 89°57′04″W / 39.0800462°N 89.9512135°W |
| River mouth | Confluence with the West Fork, forming Wood River 420 ft (130 m) 38°53′26″N 90°06′54″W / 38.89055°N 90.11496°W |
| Basin features | |
| GNIS ID | 407649 |
| West Fork Wood River | |
|---|---|
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Macoupin County east of Brighton 39°02′54″N 90°06′58″W / 39.0483798°N 90.1162192°W |
| River mouth | Confluence with the East Fork forming the Wood River 420 ft (130 m) 38°53′26″N 90°06′54″W / 38.89058°N 90.11508°W |
| Length | 16.4 mi (26.4 km) |
| Basin features | |
| GNIS ID | 420841 |
The Wood River is a short river, about 2.4-mile-long (3.9 km), in Illinois, USA. It flows into the mighty Mississippi River near East Alton, Illinois. This area is not far from St. Louis, Missouri.
The Wood River gets its start when two smaller rivers, called the West Fork and East Fork, join together. This meeting point is close to where the land drops down from the Mississippi River bluffs. Long ago, the Wood River's natural path followed the Mississippi through the low-lying areas. Today, a special channel helps it flow directly into the Mississippi.
In 1803, the Wood River was known by its French name, Rivière du Bois. It gave its name to Camp Wood. This camp was an important place where the famous Lewis and Clark team got ready for their big journey.
Contents
Where Does the Wood River Begin?
The Wood River is formed by two main branches: the West Fork and the East Fork.
The West Fork
The West Fork of the Wood River is about 16.4 miles (26.4 km) long. It starts in Macoupin County, Illinois. A smaller stream called Honeycut Branch flows into the West Fork.
The East Fork
The East Fork of the Wood River is longer, measuring about 21.9 miles (35.2 km). It also begins in Macoupin County, Illinois. Girder Branch is a major stream that joins the East Fork.
What Towns and Counties are Near the River?
The Wood River and its branches flow through or near several towns and counties in Illinois. These areas are part of the Wood River's watershed, meaning water from these places drains into the river.
Towns and Villages
Here are some of the cities, towns, and villages in the Wood River watershed:
Counties in the Watershed
Parts of these Illinois counties are drained by the Wood River:
