There’s Something Magical About These 14 Nebraska Lakes In The Summer
We’ve shared some of our favorite lakes in Nebraska with you before, but we have so many others that deserve a visit this summer. Here, we’ve included some of the Nebraska lakes we’ve mentioned previously, along with some new ones that we haven’t. The end result is a compilation of the most beautiful lakes in Nebraska! Visit them all to make the summer one that you won’t soon forget.
1. Center Lake, Bridgeport State Recreation Area, near Bridgeport
Bridgeport SRA's water is distributed over five sandpit lakes, of which Center Lake is the largest. One of the best lakes in Nebraska, this is a popular spot with boaters, campers, and those just looking to hang out in a lovely shady spot on a warm afternoon.
Bridgeport State Recreation Area, Bridgeport Lake State Recreation Rd, Bridgeport, NE 69336, USA
This beautiful spot is very popular with families and offers outstanding fishing, boating, and swimming. This sandy beach may very well be the best lake in Nebraska.
What a gorgeous place to spend a day - or several, if you take advantage of the primitive or RV camping facilities. There's no swimming here, but there's plenty of hiking, fishing, boating, and hunting to be found at Czechland Lake Recreation Area.
Czechland Lake Recreation Area, Chester, NE 68050, USA
Enders Reservoir is less developed than some other Nebraska lakes, giving it a wonderfully natural feel. There is one swimming area, and plenty of room for fishing, boating, and camping.
One of the biggest lakes in Nebraska, this is the state's third-largest lake, and it offers some of the best fishing you'll find in the state. You can camp here and, if you decide to visit in the winter, you might get to see the large number of bald eagles that migrate through the area every year.
This lake in the middle of the city is a nice escape from the hurried world outside. Bring your fishing pole or kayak, or just grab a picnic lunch and enjoy the view at this beautiful lake in Nebraska.
Lake Mac is the biggest lake in Nebraska, and there's no shortage of fun activities here. The gorgeous white sand beaches will almost make you forget you're in a landlocked state. There are unlimited options for fishing, boating, swimming, camping, and all kinds of water sports.
We share Nebraska's second-largest lake, Lewis and Clark Lake, with South Dakota, but there's more than enough to go around. Fishing, boating, hiking, water skiing, and windsurfing are super popular here, and you can camp or rent a cabin with a great view of the water.
With some of the best fishing in Nebraska, Sherman Reservoir is a great place for a family day out. In addition to fishing, boating and water sports are popular activities. Seasonal hunting is permitted around the reservoir as well.
Among the most beautiful lakes in Nebraska, Standing Bear Lake is an unbelievable oasis in the midst of the state's largest city. You'll find fishing and no-wake boating here, and many people enjoy the hiking and biking trails.
Standing Bear Lake, Omaha, NE 68164, USA
11. Sutherland State Recreation Area, near Sutherland
Sutherland Reservoir has some prime swimming and fishing areas. Power boating is allowed, and there are 85 primitive camping sites, making Sutherland Reservoir one of the best of all Nebraska lakes.
Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area, Sutherland, NE 69165, USA
Anglers will find a wheelchair-accessible pier at Wagon Train Lake, and the fishing is fantastic. You can also swim here, and boats are welcome as long as you keep the speed to 5 MPH or below.
Some people say that a Loch Ness-type monster hides in the depths of Walgren Lake, but you'll have to decide that for yourself. While you're monster hunting, you can have fun fishing or boating. If you want to stay longer, you'll be happy to know that there are 40 primitive camping sites at Walgren Lake.
14. Willow Creek State Recreation Area, near Pierce
Although it's named for the creek that feeds the Elkhorn River, this reservoir offers all kinds of fishing and boating fun. Possibly the best lake in Nebraska, there's a swimming beach and a hike/bike trail as well as a dedicated horse trail. You can even bring your horse camping with you.
Walgren Lake, Hay Springs, NE 69347, USA
With dozens of excellent lakes in Nebraska to choose from, the Cornhusker State offers the perfect water adventure for everyone. If you don’t see your favorite Nebraska lakes listed here, be sure to check out these scenic Nebraska lakes. Where is your favorite lake to spend a warm summer day? What do you think is the best lake in Nebraska? Tell us!
Though amazing, the options for cooling off aren’t limited to the best lakes in Nebraska. There are some incredible swim spots, including this man-made swimming hole in Nebraska that’s fun for all ages.
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The OIYS Visitor Center
Lakes In Nebraska
July 25, 2022
Daniella DiRienzo
Can I camp right on the water in Nebraska?
Nebraska lakes aren’t just for swimming and fishing, they’re for camping too! There are several places where you can camp right on the water in Nebraska including the Swanson Reservoir in Trenton. Nestled beside the Republic River, the reservoir is open seasonally, May through October. Visitors can enjoy a wealth of water-related activities including lakeside camping. There are several electrical hook-ups scattered throughout the campground. Craving a more primitive camping experience? You’ll be happy to know you can pitch a tent right on the sandy beach.
Where can I go tubing in Nebraska?
When it comes to water-related fun in Nebraska, the options are virtually endless. There are so many ways to enjoy the state’s beautiful bodies of water, including tubing. You’ll find several outfitters in the state that facilitate float trips in Nebraska – one of which is Little Outlaw. Located in Valentine, Little Outlaw organizes floats on the beautiful Niobrara River. The floats vary in length, with the shortest taking four hours to complete. As tubers meander down the river, they’ll pass lots of lovely sights including Smith Falls, the tallest waterfall in Nebraska.
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As a lifelong Nebraskan, Delana loves discovering the many hidden treasures of her state. She has worked as a writer and editor since 2007. Delana's work has been featured on more than a dozen websites and in Nebraska Life Magazine.
