Norfolk’s North Fork Whitewater Park Brings Recreational Opportunities for the Midwest

North Fork Whitewater Parks surf structure in Norfolk, Ne.

Along Nebraska’s North Fork of the Elkhorn River, Norfolk's North Fork Whitewater Park holds the distinction of being one of the Midwest’s few whitewater parks. This addition to the region revitalized a once flood-prone, neglected waterway into a vibrant destination for kayaking, tubing, rafting, and river surfing, opening up new recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

A Unique Opportunity for Community Engagement 

“Norfolk is fortunate to have a river running right through downtown, something few communities can offer. We harnessed that unique feature and created something even more wonderful,” said Traci Jeffrey, Executive Director, Visit Norfolk Area. “The whitewater park uses that natural feature to provide locals and visitors with outdoor recreation all year long – from kayaking, surfing and tubing in the summer to ice skating in Johnson Park in the winter.” 

Kayakers can float a half-mile to 2.5 miles, depending on their take-out, blending the whitewater structures with downtown Norfolk. Enjoying the whitewater park is complication-free with multiple entry points, including Winter Park, 1st Street, and Johnson Park and an easily accessible take-out at East Bluff Park. There is a trail access to the first and last drop structures from Johnson Park. 

Life jacket and helmet stations are available at Winter Park and Johnson Park. Life jackets are mandatory, and helmets are strongly encouraged. 

“Our favorite feature is that using the whitewater park is at no cost to the patron, and there is access for everyone,” said Jeffrey.  

Engineered Rapids Made For River Surfing

The park’s most unique aspect is the seven engineered whitewater drop structures. Together, they create six smaller rapids and one standout wave. The largest and deepest drop feature provides river surfing opportunities and is optimal for use when river levels are medium or high. North Fork Whitewater Park is one of just a handful of whitewater parks in the U.S. offering this feature. 

A Strategic Location for Downtown Enjoyment and Economic Promise

The park is thoughtfully located near Norfolk’s lively downtown, which is home to dozens of restaurants, shops and bars. 

“It is truly a destination for the Norfolk area, drawing people in to enjoy the outdoors and our vibrant downtown,” said Jeffrey. “After a day on the water or rink, visitors can walk a block to eat, shop or enjoy live music.”

According to Jeffrey, data shows visitors coming from across Nebraska and the Midwest, including Iowa, South Dakota, Colorado, Minnesota and Kansas. The park’s location draws visitors directly into the heart of the city. During its inaugural summer, the combined whitewater park and Johnson Park redevelopment saw a significant uptick in use, from around 100 floaters per year to projections of up to 30,000 visitors annually.

Built With the Community in Mind

The North Fork Whitewater Park was built with the community in mind. The design flawlessly married recreation, urban life and economic strategy, resulting in a family-friendly, free and exciting recreational hub for Norfolk and Nebraska alike. Visitors can now enjoy river recreation, scenic trails, dynamic public spaces, great meals and community all within walking distance. 

For anyone curious about urban river recreation done right, visit www.northforkriverfront.com.