[1][2] It originates at Weatherly Lake,[2] located 9 miles east-southeast of Des Moines in Union County, New Mexico.

[3] It results from the South Branch Corrumpa Creek, which originates south-southwest of Des Moines and travels generally east, and the North Branch Corrumpa Creek, which originates southwest of Des Moines but passes northeast through the town before continuing generally east-southeast, having their confluence at Weatherly Lake.

[4][5] From that location, Corrumpa Creek meanders in every direction but generally east before turning southeast near the Oklahoma border.

[6][7][8] Historically, McNees Crossing on Corrumpa Creek, about 3.5 miles inside New Mexico, was an important location on the Santa Fe Trail.

[9] It was easy to find, marked as it was by twin peaks known as Rabbit Ears Mountain; it provided water for travelers at an easy stream fording point; and, it was located in an area with plentiful wood as well as grazing lands for livestock.