South Fork State Recreation Area facts for kids
Quick facts for kids South Fork State Recreation Area |
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South Fork Dam and Reservoir, looking southeast
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 South Fork State Recreation Area
Location in Nevada
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| Location | Elko County, Nevada, United States |
| Nearest city | Elko, Nevada |
| Area | 3,903.04 acres (15.7950 km2) |
| Elevation | 5,226 ft (1,593 m) |
| Designation | Nevada state recreation area |
| Established | 1983 |
| Administrator | Nevada Division of State Parks |
| Website | South Fork State Recreation Area |
The South Fork State Recreation Area is a fun outdoor place in Nevada. It covers almost 4,000 acres, which is like 3,000 football fields! You can find it about 5 miles south of Elko. This park includes the big South Fork Reservoir and nearby areas with wetlands, grassy fields, and hills. It is a great spot for many outdoor adventures.
Contents
How the Park Was Created
The land where the park now sits used to be a ranch called Tomera Ranch. In 1983, the state bought this land. This was the first step in creating the recreation area.
Building the South Fork Dam
The main feature of the park, the South Fork Reservoir, was made possible by building a dam. This dam is called the South Fork Dam. It was built across the South Fork of the Humboldt River. The plan for the dam was approved in 1983. Construction of the dam finished in 1988.
Filling the Reservoir
After the dam was built, the area behind it started to fill with water. This created the large South Fork Reservoir. It took several years for the reservoir to completely fill up. The filling process was finished in 1995. Now, the reservoir covers about 1,650 acres.
Fun Things to Do at the Park
South Fork State Recreation Area offers many activities for visitors. It is a popular spot for people who love the outdoors.
Camping and Boating
The park has a special area for camping. There are 25 campsites where you can set up your tent or park your RV. Near the dam, you will find a boat ramp. This makes it easy to launch your boat onto the reservoir. There is also a parking area for vehicles and boat trailers.
Fishing Adventures
The South Fork Reservoir is very famous for its fishing. Many people come here to catch large fish. It is known for having "trophy-class" trout and bass. This means you might catch some really big and impressive fish!
Hiking and Exploring South Fork Canyon
Below the dam, there is an area called South Fork Canyon. The Bureau of Land Management takes care of this canyon. It is a great place for hiking. You can also go floating on the water or enjoy more fishing in the canyon. It offers a different kind of outdoor experience compared to the reservoir itself.
