Norfork Lake was formed with the construction of the dam which was initiated in 1941 and completed in 1944. Norfork Dam lies on North Fork River, at river mile 4.8, which is 4 miles northeast of Norfork, Arkansas. Completion of the powerhouse and switchyard came in October 1949, while in 1944, commercial generation first began. Estimated cost of the complete Norfork construction project was $28,600,000. Norfork Lake is one of four multiple-purpose project
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Norfork Lake Map
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Norfork Lake was formed with the construction of the dam which was initiated in 1941 and completed in 1944. Norfork Dam lies on North Fork River, at river mile 4.8, which is 4 miles northeast of Norfork, Arkansas. Completion of the powerhouse and switchyard came in October 1949, while in 1944, commercial generation first began. Estimated cost of the complete Norfork construction project was $28,600,000.
Norfork Lake is one of four multiple-purpose projects constructed in the upper White River Basin for the control of floods and the generation of hydro electric power. As with the other three projects, Norfork also provides excellent recreational opportunities for people of all ages.
Norfork Lake consumes anywhere from 22,000 to 30,700 acres depending on water height, and has a maximum depth of 177 feet above the dam. Tributaries include Norfork River, South Brushy Creek, Big Creek, Pigeon Creek, East Pigeon Creek, and Bennets Creek. Water exiting the dam into the North Fork River, which then flows into the White River. Average elevation at the dam is 590 feet, while fluctuations vary from 6 feet low to 30 feet high.
The 550 feet of shoreline consists of limestone bedrock and gravel. Wildlife abounds in the surrounding area making hunting very popular. The lake provides fishing opportunities for almost all species of game fish, with especially good fishing for black bass and a renowned reputation for largemouth bass. The lake does not have a closed season and never freezes over in the winter.
Jet Skis:
Are they permitted? Yes
Swimming:
Can you swim in the lake? Yes
Water Level:
Average water level variance? From 6 Feet Low to 30 Feet High
Boat Docks:
Are they permitted? Private boat docks are permitted in specified areas of the lake that have been pre-designated by Corps of Engineer to be used for that purpose. Land owners wishing to put in a private dock in these designated areas must apply for and obtain a permit fro
Power Boats:
Are they permitted? Yes
Depth of Lake:
177 Feet
Nearby cities:
Mountain Home (13 Miles)
Nearest airport:
Baxter County Airport (15 Miles), Little Rock (Approx. 1.5 hours away)
Building restrictions:
To preserve and protect the cleanliness and natural environment of the lake, both the Corps of Engineers and the Arkansas Department of Health enforce general restrictions concerning distance from the Corps boundary lines and construction.
Fishing Information
Fishing is a year round sport on Lake Norfork. While fishermen can catch almost any species of bass, walleye, crappie, and bream, Lake Norfork is best known for its striped bass fishing. Norfork Lake draws fishing enthusiasts from across the country and is the host for tournaments for several species of game fish. The cold, clear water of the North Fork River, downstream from the Norfork Dam, is a world-class trout stream. The Arkansas record brook trout and a previous world record brown trout were taken from the North Fork River. The Norfork National Fish Hatchery, one of the largest of its kind in the country, is located below the dam and produces trout for stocking in the North Fork and other suitable waters in Arkansas and contiguous states.
STR Outfitters - Fishing and Hunting Guides
877.246.4896
Local Area Businesses
Cranfield Dock - Situated on lovely Norfork Lake, this business rents a variety of boats including bass, pontoon, fishing, and ski. Ski equipment, tubes, and fishing tackle are also available. Most major cards accepted. 870-492-5191, 2028 Cranfield Rd., Mountain Home, AR 72653-6756
Serving Twin Lakes Ozark Area, N. Central AR & S. Central MO Joan Gilbert, Principle Broker & Owner Licensed in Arkansas & Missouri
Gilbert Realty
1357 Highway 62 W.
Mountain Home, AR 72653
+1 870-425-6282 View Listings
