A Pristine Ozark Stream

Spring Creek is the most pristine large Ozark stream left in the state of Oklahoma, but it does have issues: increased levels of phosphorous and high E. coli detected in upper stream segments. See reports under ‘Water Quality'.

location

Originating near Kansas, OK, Spring Creek flows 34 miles through Delaware, Cherokee and Mayes Counties before emptying into Fort Gibson Lake.

Spring-fed

Small springs throughout the watershed contribute most of the estimated 15 million gallons a day flowing down the stream. The Spring Creek Watershed drains over 117,000 acres.

Water Quality

These springs help make Spring Creek one of the most pristine streams in Oklahoma.

There are issues with poultry litter in the watershed starting to make the waters nutrient-loaded (i.e., too much phosphorous) as shown by mossy gravel, an over abundance of snails, and algae growth in some areas.

wildlife

Spring Creek supports over forty species of fish, including Smallmouth Bass. Seventy percent of these fish are cool water species and have strict habitat requirements: they cannot thrive in degraded water quality or habitat.

Spring Creek Watershed has provided excellent hunting opportunities for thousands of years, as indicated by the abundance of Indian artifacts in the area. Whitetail deer and wild Turkey are taken out of the watershed each year.

recreation

Spring Creek water temperature ranges from around 50 to 75 degrees. The combination of cool temperatures and crystal clear water make Spring Creek's swimming areas enjoyable for recreational activities.

The land along Spring Creek is private, but there are one or two commercial areas available for swimming, camping, and picnicking.

What is an Ozark Stream?

Ozark streams typically occupy narrow, steep-sided valleys and often amount to a series of short pools connected by well-defined riffles.

Chert gravel is often at the bottom of the stream bed.

Ozark streams are typically clear and relatively cool, often because they are fed by springs.

Their karst topography, formed from the dissolution of soluble rocks such as limestone, is characterized by underground drainage systems with sink holes and caves.

Their clear, cool, hard waters have gravel bottom riffles, pools,runs and gravel bars.

Why is the Spring Creek unique?

Spring Creek is considered the “most pristine large Ozark Stream in the state of Oklahoma” according to the Oklahoma Water Resources Board (OWRB).

The OWRB has water quality standards, and Spring Creek is designated as High Quality Water. It often receives a Category 1 rating meaning beneficial for all uses, including body contact.