The Cleanest Lake in Nebraska Is Hiding at Calamus Reservoir State Recreation Area

When asked what the cleanest lake in Nebraska is, it most likely isn't the first one that pops into your mind, unless you thought of the Calamus Reservoir. This vast body of water in the Sandhills region of Central Nebraska is widely considered among the cleanest and clearest lakes in the state. Set among rolling plains, discover the cleanest lake in Nebraska when you visit Calamus Reservoir State Recreation Area, an outdoor playground for all kinds of recreation, from boating and fishing to hiking, picnicking, and more.

Why Calamus Reservoir Is One Of Nebraska’s Clearest Lakes

Did you know that Nebraska is home to more than 2,000 natural lakes, as well as numerous man-made ones? It's true, and the Sandhills — a vast area of grass prairie and dunes — are home to a couple of thousand bodies of water, which ebb and flow depending on the season and groundwater supply. Take, for example, one of the most gorgeous lakes near Burwell, Nebraska, located at the Calamus Reservoir State Recreation Area, which is set nearly smack-dab in the center of the state. It's crisp, clean, and cool year-round, and it's the perfect Nebraskan escape.

Created by the construction of the earthen Virginia Smith Dam in 1985, this incredible body of water consists of an impressive 5,123 acres, surrounded by 4,958 acres of hills covered in grasses and wildflowers, with 31 miles of pristine shoreline and soft, warm sand perfect for sinking toes into. The water is consistently clean and clear, with visibility far down into its depths on the clearest days.

What to Do at Calamus Reservoir State Recreation Area

Spend the day or a weekend at Calamus Reservoir in Nebraska, and you may be surprised by all there is to do. Fishing and boating are among the most popular activities here. If you're an angler, there are a number of sporting fish available for catching, including walleye, channel catfish, carp, muskie, northern pike, and crappie, among others. Interestingly, the Calamus State Fish Hatchery is located below the dam in nearby Burwell, on the southernmost tip of the lake, and it's fun to visit if you ever find yourself in the area. Open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., it's a wonderful attraction for families and even has an interactive display to learn about the fish.

As for boating in Nebraska, all types of boats are allowed on Calamus Reservoir, which features five boating docks and four ramps. This body of water is also one of the best swimming lakes in Nebraska; however, there are no lifeguards on duty, so swim at your own risk. Picnicking is another popular activity — the park offers 204 picnic tables, 216 grills, and a picnic shelter.

If you prefer to spend a few days at Calamus SRA, make a reservation at the campground at Calamus State Recreation Area, where you'll have your choice of electric and basic campsites in three campgrounds: Homestead Knolls, Nunda Shoal, and Valley View Flat campgrounds. Two additional campgrounds, Hannaman Bayou and Valley View Flat, offer designated parking-lot camping and basic non-pad sites. Book your campsite on Recreation.gov.

What To Know Before Visiting

While planning a trip to this hidden gem lake in Nebraska, visit the Nebraska Game and Parks website for any alerts before your visit. You can also check out the campground maps to help decide which campground and campsite type to reserve. If you plan on fishing in this clear Nebraska lake, make sure to purchase a permit before your trip to Calamus Reservoir.

Looking forward to beach days this summer? Check out the 10 most gorgeous beaches in Nebraska. From the shores of Lake McConaughy to Branched Oak Lake, and more, make this summer one to remember!