Lake Norfork Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to the lake?
From Mountain Home, Arkansas: 101 Boat Dock is about 11 miles away from Mountain Home. Take US-62 north from Mountain Home for about 3.4 miles, then continue on US-62 in a more northeasterly direction for 4.3 miles. Take a left at AR-101, drive for 3.2 miles, then take a right at Howard Cove Road.
From West Plains, Missouri:101 Boat Dock is about 38 miles from West Plains. Take US-160 southwest from West Plains for 17.9 miles. Take a left at MO-101 and enter Arkansas. The road will now become AR-101. Continue on AR-101 for 8 miles, then take a left at Howard Cove Road.
click here to view a map of the Lake Norfork area.
What is there to do at Lake Norfork?
Norfork Lake is unique in many ways. Its depth and clarity attract not only boaters, but scuba divers. Far beneath the surface of the lake are the ruins of old craft, certainly, but also submerged caves and the Henderson Bridge, which was built a mere decade before Norfork Lake existed and was buried by water when the reservoir filled. Fishing is also very popular on Norfork Lake. Typical flyfishing and boat fishing coexist with spear fishing (although spear fishing is illegal on the Missouri side of the lake). Swimming is very pleasant from late May into September and beach lounging is unlike beach lounging on most lakes. The beaches are covered with sand, natural and fined grained, not unlike ocean beach sand.
And, of course, there are the watersports. Houseboating the pristine waters is often paired with swifter sports, such as waterskiing or waterboarding, or taking a small personal watercraft out onto the surface. The waters are beautifully uncrowded.
How difficult is driving a houseboat?
Driving a houseboat is different than driving a car, but is not that difficult. The marina staff will walk you through driving the boat when you pick it up. Most people get the hang of maneuvering the boat within a few minutes.
What should I bring?
You'll definitely want to bring a camera and binoculars. Pack for water activities like snorkeling, fishing, swimming and riding a personal watercraft if these sports appeal for you. Suntan lotion, insect repellent, personal life jackets, beach towels, air mattresses and small activities like playing cards are all recommended.
What about groceries?
101 Boat Dock sells snack foods and soda, as well as souvenirs, T-shirts, and boating, scuba and water-ski equipment. A grocery store is 10 miles away, so you can certainly pick food up on the way to the marina.
How do I check availability or reserve a houseboat?
Give us a call at 888-454-8825, and one of our reservation agents will be happy to check availability for you. It's helpful if you already have an idea of when you want to go and what boat you're most interested in when you call.
Alternatively, you can contact us online with your availability request, and one of our agents will be happy to get back to you with the information you need.
How early do I need to reserve?
Earlier is better. If you're planning a trip during a holiday weekend like Memorial Day, it's best to get a reservation six months or more in advance. Mid-week trips or off-season dates are often available as little as a few weeks beforehand.
What kind of fish are found in the lake?
Fish of all types abound in Norfork Lake, from bass and catfish to crappie and walleye. Striper bass is a particularly popular catch. The most desired species of all, however, are the trout species, particularly rainbow trout. These fish grow large and plentiful.
Is there camping along the lake shore?
No less than 19 parks line the shores of Norfork Lake, many of them with campgrounds. Campgrounds not part of developed parks also adjoin the lake. Finding a camping site along the water, and a very inexpensive one at that, is as easy as anchoring your boat.