There's A Little-Known Unique Recreation Area In Nebraska... And It's Truly Amazing

It would take a very dedicated outdoors enthusiast to visit every single one of Nebraska’s awesome parks, recreation areas, wildlife management areas, and other interesting places for outdoor recreation. If you have the chance, however, you should make it a point to stop by Sandy Channel State Recreation Area in Phelps County, about three miles south of Elm Creek. While it’s one of the lesser-known recreation areas in the state, it happens to be one of the most beautiful.

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Located just south of the Platte River, Sandy Channel State Recreation Area encompasses 180 acres. Approximately 47 acres of that area is water spread across a series of lakes.

NGPC

The lakes are sandpit lakes with incredibly clear water. That quality makes Sandy Channel a popular place with Nebraska scuba divers; in fact, some divers say it's the best diving spot in the state. There are plenty of interesting submerged objects that make a dive seem like an underwater treasure hunt.

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flickr/John Lillis

But the lakes are also very popular with anglers. The waters are home to bluegill, channel catfish, largemouth bass, and crappie, and the occasional walleye or muskellunge. Adventurous anglers will even find opportunities for bow-fishing or spearfishing.

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flickr/John Lillis

There are no swimming areas or boat ramps at these lakes, but you can put in your non-powered or electric-powered boat from the shore. You might catch a scene like this one, with a group of turtles just hanging out in the sweet sunshine.

This captivating video shows a dive in one of the lakes at Sandy Channel. What they see under the water is really fascinating.

If you’re more into fishing, this video of a family fishing trip might just convince you to put Sandy Channel on your list of fishing spots this summer.

Have you ever visited Sandy Channel State Recreation Area? We’d love to see pictures from your trip in our comments section!