Lake Thunderbird

Lake Thunderbird
Lake Thunderbird from the water surface.
Location of Lake Thunderbird in Oklahoma, US.
Location of Lake Thunderbird in Oklahoma, US.
Lake Thunderbird
Location of Lake Thunderbird in Oklahoma, US.
Location of Lake Thunderbird in Oklahoma, US.
Lake Thunderbird
LocationNorman, Oklahoma
Coordinates35°13′15″N 97°13′05″W / 35.220833°N 97.218056°W / 35.220833; -97.218056
Typereservoir
Primary inflowsLittle River
Primary outflowsLittle River
Basin countriesUnited States
Surface area5,349 acres (8.358 sq mi; 21.65 km2)
Surface elevation1,039 ft (317 m)

Lake Thunderbird is a reservoir located in Norman, Oklahoma. The lake was constructed between 1962 and 1965 for the purpose of providing municipal water to the nearby communities of Del City, Midwest City and Norman. It is formed by an earthfill embankment (dam) 7,300 feet (2,200 m) long and up to 144 feet (44 m) high on the Little River. In addition to being a source for drinking water, Lake Thunderbird's secondary uses include numerous recreational activities.

The lake is named for the Native American legend of the Thunderbird, a supernatural bird of power and strength. Many locals commonly refer to the lake as "Lake Dirtybird" due to the very murky lake water.