Norfork Lake, Arkansas

In north central Arkansas is Norfork Lake, a popular reservoir formed by a dam across the North Fork River
4 miles upstream from where the North Fork runs into the White River at the little city of Norfork, Arkansas. The dam, built for flood control and hydroelectric generation, was completed in 1944. Diving is popular near Jordan, Arkansas, on the east side of the lake, not far from the dam.

Depths to: 100 feet (30 m)

Visibility: Up to 30 feet (9 m)

Water temperature: 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius) in the spring, 86 F (30 C) in the summer

Marine life: Large bass, catfish, walleye. In the south part of Norfork Lake, Jordan Marina has mapped 29 dive sites. Included is a dynamite shack, school bus, tool truck and old boats. There are also sites of houses occupied before the lake was formed.

Fees: Admission to the lake is free, and rental gear is available at the marina.

On-site amenities: Camp sites, dive centers, picnic areas, motels and restaurants are nearby.

More info: Visit http://norfork.com/scuba.htm or call Jordan Marina and Dive Shop at (870) 499-7348.

Open: Jordan Marina is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, closed Tuesdays, with expanded hours during the summer.

Getting there: From Mountain Home, Arkansas, drive southeast on Arkansas Highway 5 to Arkansas Highway 341. Turn left and follow the road across the dam.