Lake at sunset

Norfork Lake Vacation Rentals

Norfork Lake

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Norfork Lake
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Why Rent On Norfork Lake

Norfork Lake, a pristine expanse of crystal-clear water, stretches across the Ozark Mountains, straddling the border of Arkansas and southern Missouri. With 65 miles of cruiseable waterway and an impressive 550 miles of uncommercialized shoreline, this lake offers a myriad of adventures for travelers of all kinds.

For adventure seekers, the lake is a paradise for boating, water skiing, and scuba diving, with its exceptionally clear waters revealing a sunken city beneath the surface. Fishing enthusiasts can reel in trophy striped bass, walleye, crappie, and more, with guided trips and abundant fish populations. Hikers and bikers can explore the surrounding trails, while families can enjoy sandy beaches like Sand Island and numerous family-friendly campgrounds.

Wellness seekers will appreciate the serene natural beauty, with opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and float trips on nearby rivers like the North Fork River and Buffalo National River. The area is also dotted with caves, scenic drives, and several U.S. Army Corps of Engineers parks, providing ample opportunities for camping and outdoor activities. While the immediate area may lack traditional museums or historical landmarks, the natural splendor and diverse recreational options make Norfork Lake an unforgettable destination for any traveler.

Best time to go
Embrace late spring, particularly May, when Norfork Lake awakens in a symphony of vibrant blooms and shimmering waters. Perfect for fishing and boating, the serene ambiance is complemented by fewer visitors, granting you the lake’s pristine beauty all to yourself.
Water Quality
Norfork Lake's waters are deep blue and ultra-clear, offering visibility up to 60 feet, making it ideal for activities like scuba diving and fishing.
Surface area (mi)
53
Max depth (ft)
178.15
Elevation (ft)
547.9
Shoreline length (mi)
550

Popular activities

  • Boating
  • Kayaking
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
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Marinas on Norfork Lake

Nearby lakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Ready to dive into what Norfork Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!

  • Yes, there are designated swimming areas at Norfork Lake. These areas include swim beaches at various parks such as Panther Bay Recreational Area, Quarry Park Public Use Area, and other Corps of Engineers parks along the lake.

  • Norfork Lake is a popular destination because of its extensive fishing opportunities. The lake is home to a variety of freshwater game fish, including striped bass, black bass, and crappie, and it has one of the best striped bass fisheries in Arkansas. It also offers boating, water skiing, and swimming, with over 550 miles of shoreline and numerous camping and recreational facilities.

  • On Norfork Lake in Missouri, the daily catch limits and minimum length requirements are as follows: Catfish (channel, blue, and flathead) have a daily limit of 10, combined. Black bass must be at least 15 inches for largemouth and smallmouth, and 12 inches for spotted bass. Crappie have a daily limit of 15 and must be at least 10 inches long. Striped bass have a minimum length of 20 inches and can only include three in the aggregate.

  • The best beach for families at Norfork Lake is White Bluff Beach. It is a good-sized, secluded beach in the Big Creek Arm with a gently sloped shoreline, making it safe for children. The area also offers nearby recreational amenities like boat launches and picnic areas.

  • Towns near Norfork Lake in Missouri include Ozark, Republic, West Plains, Nixa, and Bolivar. These towns are located in the Ozark County area and offer various amenities and recreational activities. Springfield is the closest major city to Norfork Lake in Missouri.