Top 15 Stunning Lakes to Visit in Nebraska

Nebraska, the only state in the nation that is triply landlocked, is situated in the Great Plains of the Midwestern United States. The eastern border is defined by the Missouri River, while the eastern half of the state is characterized by hills. Conversely, the western half predominantly features prairies.

This state is renowned for its exceptional beef and as the birthplace of Kool Aid, which attracts numerous tourists. However, Nebraska also boasts impressive natural landscapes, including three significant rivers: the Platte, Niobrara, and Republican Rivers. Additionally, it is home to a variety of historic trails, forests, and lakes. If you visit the Cornhusker State, it is highly recommended to explore at least one of the 15 premier lakes in Nebraska.

1. Lake McConaughy; Keith County

This reservoir, named after grain merchant and former Mayor Charles W. McConaughy, stands as the largest lake in the state, encompassing 14,400 hectares. It is located on the edge of the Nebraska Sandhills and was established through the construction of the Kingsley Dam.

Located along the North Platte River, Lake McConaughy offers excellent fishing, boating, and camping opportunities. Moreover, it is notable for activities such as windsurfing, water skiing, and swimming, making it a recognized diving destination.

The shoreline features delightful white sand beaches and ample picnic areas. For those wishing to extend their visit, options include camping or staying in a lakeside lodge.

2. Lake Wanahoo; Saunders County

Developed in the 1990s as a reservoir to manage flooding, Lake Wanahoo has become a favored recreational site in addition to its original purpose.

The Lake Wanahoo State Recreation Area is situated at the northern end of this 260-hectare lake, offering a compact yet vibrant location for canoeing, kayaking, boating, and fishing.

This area also accommodates picnic spaces and camping facilities. An encircling trail provides a scenic route for hiking or cycling.

3. Lewis and Clark Lake; Cedar County

This expansive 13,000-hectare lake, located at the conjunction of the Nebraska and South Dakota borders, is a celebrated tourist destination, attracting over one million visitors annually.

Camping is a favored activity here, particularly among horse riders, as the site offers several horse trails along with accompanying facilities.

At the eastern end of the lake, the Lakeview Golf Course is situated, while the Miller Creek Recreation Area is located toward the western end, along with multiple other recreational sites along the Nebraska shore.

4. Harlan County Reservoir; Harlan & Phillips Counties

This reservoir and dam, situated along the Republican River in south-central Nebraska, spans 5,360 hectares, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors.

As the state’s second-largest lake, Harlan County Reservoir serves as an excellent venue for water sports and fishing, boasting a variety of fish species including walleye, catfish, crappie, white bass, and pike.

Photography and nature enthusiasts will appreciate the lake’s shoreline, which provides ample opportunities for wildlife observation, particularly of beaver, whitetail deer, little blue heron, and bald eagles. The area features over 500 camping sites along its 120-kilometer perimeter.

5. Glenn Cunningham Lake; Douglas County

Located at the northernmost point of Omaha, Glenn Cunningham Lake is named after the former mayor and U.S. Congressman Glenn C. Cunningham. This 160-hectare lake is enveloped by parkland and designated as a wildlife area.

Since its inauguration in 1977, the lake has been a favored choice for sailing and kayaking. It permits only no-wake boating, providing a peaceful environment for activities.

The surrounding Glenn Cunningham Lake Park includes pathways suitable for horseback riding, hiking, and cycling, along with camping sites and a boat launch located at the southern end of the lake.

6. Carter Lake; Douglas County

This shallow oxbow lake, located just east of Omaha, is shared with Iowa. Established in 1877, Carter Lake was formerly a channel of the Missouri River.

The lake is now positioned adjacent to the river, near Eppley Airfield, and is enfolded by Carter Lake Park, which offers extensive recreational options.

The park features basketball courts, baseball and football fields, trails, a pavilion, and diverse picnic areas. The lake itself provides opportunities for fishing, water skiing, and boating.

7. Conestoga Lake; Lancaster County

Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Conestoga Lake is a favored recreational site, located southwest of Lincoln.

Visitors come to engage in camping, picnicking, and fishing activities. Facilities include a playground, a boat ramp, and fire pits surrounding the 93-hectare expanse of water.

The lake is surrounded by the Conestoga Lake State Recreation Area, and entry to the area requires a permit.

8. Pibel Lake; Wheeler County

This 29-hectare lake serves as a hidden oasis within a small valley at the edge of the Sandhills, surrounded by cottonwood trees and diverse wildlife.

Pibel Lake is part of the Pibel Lake State Recreation Area, which offers primitive camping, picnicking, and no-wake boating. Anglers frequent this lake due to its abundance of largemouth bass, bluegills, and channel catfish.

This tranquil destination provides an excellent opportunity to escape and enjoy the natural environment, and its secluded setting contributes to its appeal.

9. Morning Star Lake; Merrick County

Situated in the village of Clarks, Morning Star Lake is positioned east of the Platte River in central Nebraska. Although part of the gated ‘Summerwood’ community, it remains accessible to the public.

This spring-fed lake features clear waters and boasts approximately 40 private residences along its shoreline, some of which are available for rent.

The optimal time for a visit is during the Fourth of July, coinciding with a local community celebration. Although the lake is open to the public, boating, water skiing, and jet skiing require access through one of the properties.

10. Branched Oak Lake; Lancaster County

This 700-hectare lake is a key feature of the Branched Oak State Recreational Area, recognized as the largest of the 20 Salt Valley Lakes. It presents various recreational activities for visitors.

Fishing, boating, and camping are among the most sought-after activities, with additional options for hiking and horseback riding available. The area also presents two designated swimming beaches.

A marina within the recreation area includes nine ramps and 49 docking facilities. Both primitive and modern camping options are available, alongside provisions for equestrian camping.

11. Merritt Reservoir; Cherry County

This scenic reservoir is located within a valley and bordered by the Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area. It provides opportunities for both fishing and boating.

All boat types are permissible on Merritt Reservoir, which provides five access points for launching. Additionally, the surrounding recreation area features over 200 picnic tables and 190 grills.

Visitors who wish to extend their stay can opt for accommodation at nearby lakeside resorts or select from one of the many camping sites. There are 38 public campsites available, some equipped with electric hookups.

12. Calamus Reservoir; Loup County

Part of the Calamus State Recreation Area, Calamus Reservoir is an ideal location for a variety of outdoor activities, including boating, canoeing, water skiing, fishing, and windsurfing.

This area serves as a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts, providing opportunities for bird watching, wildlife observation, and hiking. It also features over 200 picnic tables and more than 215 grills for public use.

The reservoir’s 90-kilometer shoreline includes a swimming beach, multiple boat ramps, and numerous camping locations. Additionally, it houses two marinas, alongside bait shops and boat rental services.

13. Wehrspann Lake; Sarpy County

Situated just 19 kilometers west of Omaha’s city center, Wehrspann Lake, along with its surrounding Chalco Hills Recreation Area, represents the city’s most frequented outdoor recreation facility.

Initially constructed for flood management, the reservoir has transitioned into a premier fishing location. Anglers flock to this site throughout the year to pursue channel catfish, walleye, crappie, sunfish, and largemouth bass.

Along the lake’s eight-kilometer shoreline, visitors will find nature trails, picnic areas, football fields, and two playgrounds. A designated hiking and cycling trail encircles the entire lake.

14. Fremont Lakes; Dodge County

Comprising 20 lakes, the Fremont Lakes are part of the Fremont State Recreation Area, with a combined surface area of nearly 120 hectares.

This area attracts water and outdoor enthusiasts eager to partake in an array of activities, including water skiing, fishing, boating, and swimming.

The recreation area features several picnic spots for leisurely afternoons and concession stands for snacks and fishing equipment. Furthermore, there are 240 primitive campsites and 190 motorhome sites available.

15. Lake Minatare; Scotts Bluff County

This 873-hectare lake is situated within the Lake Minatare State Recreation Area and is the largest water body in the Panhandle, drawing thousands of visitors each year from near and far.

Lake Minatare is part of the North Platte Wildlife Refuge, making it an attractive site for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts due to its rich biodiversity.

Fishing during spring and summer is popular here, with species including walleye, channel catfish, crappie, white bass, and pike available. The location is also conducive for water skiing, sailing, windsurfing, and swimming.