When you look across Reelfoot Lake, imagine the entire countryside was once a dense cypress woodland, pierced only by Native American trails and crudely constructed roads. The history of Reelfoot Lake is a dramatic one. In the winter of 1811-1812, the 150-mile long New Madrid fault line produced a series of four earthquakes so powerful that the Mississippi River was said to have flowed backward for three days. This intensity created Reelfoot Lake, and shocks were felt as far away as Quebec. They remain the largest earthquakes ever recorded in the eastern United States. The lake is 11 miles long and five miles wide, encompassing 15,500 acres, with an average depth of 5.5 feet, the maximum depth being 18 feet. Reelfoot Lake is noted for its bald cypress trees and its nesting pairs of bald eagles. It is the site of Reelfoot Lake State Park and Reelfoot National Wildlife Refuge. Our shallow, stump-filled lake is a natural fish hatchery perfect for crappie, bluegill, bass, catfish and more species of fish. Reelfoot Lake features year-round hunting, fishing, bird watching, canoeing, kayaking & hiking. The area is a photographer's paradise showcasing stunning sunrise and sunsets, wildflowers, lakeside scenic views of bald-cypress trees, eagles in their nesting areas and much more.
For the most up-to-date hours and information, please contact Reelfoot Lake directly.
