Lake Sherwood, nestled in the scenic landscape of Arkansas, has attracted many curious minds. One of the most asked questions by visitors and locals alike is about the lake’s sea level. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the specifics of the lake’s elevation, the geography around it, and why this information matters to anyone exploring the area.
The Elevation of Lake Sherwood, Arkansas
So, what is the sea level of Lake Sherwood? The lake sits at approximately 565 feet (172 meters) above sea level. This elevation places it comfortably within the average elevation range for most lakes in the Arkansas region. Arkansas is known for its diverse topography, ranging from the flat plains in the east to the rugged hills and mountains in the west.
Quick Overview: Arkansas Elevations
To understand Lake Sherwood’s sea level better, let’s compare its elevation with other areas in Arkansas:
| Location | Elevation (Feet) | Elevation (Meters) |
|---|---|---|
| Mount Magazine | 2,753 | 839 |
| Ozark Mountains | 1,500 | 457 |
| Little Rock | 335 | 102 |
| Lake Sherwood | 565 | 172 |
| Mississippi River Plains | 200 | 61 |
This table shows that while Lake Sherwood is not the highest point in Arkansas, it sits at a higher elevation than the state’s eastern plains.
Geography Around Lake Sherwood
Lake Sherwood is situated in the central part of Arkansas, near Sherwood city. It’s surrounded by rolling hills and dense greenery, which create a peaceful and serene atmosphere. The lake itself is a man-made reservoir, designed to provide both recreational and water resource benefits to the community.
As you venture to the lake, you’ll notice the slight elevation changes when driving through the area. While the change in altitude is subtle, it’s enough to offer stunning views of the surroundings from various points around the lake. You might even catch a breathtaking sunset reflecting off the lake’s surface as the elevation subtly lifts you above the surrounding landscapes.
Why Elevation Matters
Elevation plays a significant role in many factors concerning a body of water. For example, the lake’s elevation can affect its temperature, water flow, and even how sound travels around the area. In higher elevations, lakes tend to have cooler water temperatures because they are further from the Earth’s warmer, lower atmospheric layers.
For those who love boating or fishing, it’s crucial to know the lake’s elevation. The higher elevation can influence water pressure and fish behavior, which is helpful for anglers planning a trip.
How to Use This Information When Visiting
Knowing Lake Sherwood’s sea level and elevation provides more than trivia. It can help you plan better when visiting. For example:
- Boating: Be aware that water levels may vary depending on rainfall, and higher elevations could mean cooler water temperatures. Always check water conditions before launching your boat.
- Fishing: Cooler waters at higher elevations may cause fish to behave differently than they do at lower-elevation lakes. Understanding this could give you a better fishing experience.
- Hiking: If you’re planning a hike around the lake, knowing the elevation helps. You can prepare for minor inclines and elevation changes that could affect your stamina.
- Weather: The temperature at higher elevations can be slightly cooler. This means it’s essential to pack accordingly if you’re planning a day out, especially in the early morning or late evening.
Here’s a Quick Checklist for Visitors to Lake Sherwood, AR:
- [ ] Check local weather for cooler temperatures due to elevation.
- [ ] Bring appropriate clothing for potential cooler conditions.
- [ ] Plan your fishing trip based on how fish respond to higher elevations.
- [ ] Verify water levels if boating, as they might change with rainfall.
- [ ] Prepare for minor inclines if hiking near the lake.
The Importance of Arkansas Elevation Patterns
Arkansas boasts a wide variety of geographical features. Understanding these patterns helps in making sense of where Lake Sherwood fits within the state’s diverse landscape. For instance, while the eastern side of Arkansas features flat plains, the western and central parts of the state showcase rolling hills and high elevations.
Lake Sherwood’s positioning at 565 feet places it in a moderate elevation zone. Visitors will notice that this lake sits higher than the flat lands of the Arkansas Delta, yet it’s not as elevated as the towering peaks of the Ozarks or Mount Magazine.
How Elevation Affects Local Wildlife
In addition to impacting outdoor activities, the lake’s sea level affects local wildlife. Wildlife at higher elevations has adapted to the conditions of cooler climates and varying weather. For instance, you might notice different species of birds near Lake Sherwood than in the lower plains. These species thrive in higher areas where cooler temperatures and forested regions offer the perfect environment.
The lake’s elevation also affects fish populations. In higher-elevation lakes like Sherwood, fish species such as bass and crappie often exhibit different feeding habits. Understanding the effects of elevation can improve your chances of successful fishing.
Climate and Weather Influences
Lake Sherwood’s sea level can also influence the climate and weather patterns around it. Bodies of water at higher elevations experience unique weather conditions. For instance, cloud formations can occur more frequently around elevated lakes due to the difference in atmospheric pressure. Visitors may notice that rain showers come and go quickly at Lake Sherwood, especially during the summer months.
This shift in weather patterns may affect your plans if you’re looking to fish or hike around the lake. Rain can cool down the area significantly, so it’s good practice to pack an extra layer of clothing or a light rain jacket.
Lake Sherwood and Its Role in Arkansas’ Water Resources
While the lake’s elevation is an important fact, Lake Sherwood also plays a critical role in Arkansas’ water resource management. This reservoir serves the community by providing a reliable water supply for drinking and irrigation. Higher-elevation lakes often collect more rainfall, contributing to more stable water levels throughout the year. This makes Lake Sherwood an essential feature for both recreation and utility.
Best Times to Visit Based on Elevation
The best time to visit Lake Sherwood depends on what activities you have planned. Because of its elevation, the lake experiences cooler temperatures during the fall and spring months, making these seasons ideal for hiking, camping, and fishing.
During summer, the lake remains cooler than lower-elevation lakes, providing some relief from the heat. The surrounding hills and forests offer shade, but be prepared for the occasional rainfall that comes with elevated climates.
For those who enjoy water sports, summer is perfect since the water temperatures become more comfortable as the days warm up.
Understanding the sea level of Lake Sherwood gives you an edge when planning your visit. Whether you’re boating, fishing, or simply enjoying nature, knowing the elevation helps you better prepare for your activities. With the lake sitting at 565 feet above sea level, it brings unique climate conditions, wildlife experiences, and recreational opportunities that set it apart from lower-elevation bodies of water in Arkansas.
This guide should equip you with the knowledge to make the most of your trip to this beautiful, elevated destination!