|
Possum Kingdom Lake was created when the Morris Sheppard Dam was completed in 1941. The dam was built across the Brazos River south of Graham, Texas and west Of Mineral Wells, Texas. It took only 3 months to fill the lake, submerging what was left of a small town named Pickwick. When the lake level sinks low enough, a rock chimney can be seen.
The Morris Sheppard Dam is one half mile long and as high as a 19 story building. The construction of the dam required almost 2,000 miles of reinforcing steel and more than 1,000 box cars of cement. Hydroelectric power is produced by two generators that are located in the Powerhouse below the dam. The project was completed by the Brazos River Authority in 1941 at a cost of $9,000,00.00.
Possum Kingdom lake covers approx. 17,700 acres, enough water to cover 570,00 acres one foot deep. It is 65 miles long, 3.5 miles wide and has approx. 310 miles of shoreline, sandy beaches, rock cliffs and mountains. McAdams peak, located on the east side of the lake boasts as being the highest point in North Central Texas. Hell's Gate, located in the southeastern region of Possum Kingdom Lake is a favorite spot for parties, get-togethers and the yearly 4th of July Fireworks Display.
Aside from the scenic beauty of Possum Kingdom Lake, you'll find Possum Kingdom State Park, public boat ramps, gas docks, camping facilities, lodges, cabins, marinas, grocery stores, realty companies, package stores, churches and much more. Need a place to land your plane? Possum Kingdom Lake has 2 airports.
Activities at Possum Kingdom Lake include: boating, skiing, swimming, fishing and weekly fishing tournaments, golfing at "The Cliffs", camping, picnicking, hiking, and plenty of wildlife observation and photography. Sorry, hunting is restricted, but there are plenty of hunting leases around the area.
*Information from Possum Kindgom Chamber of Commerce
|