Enjoy a refreshing dip in one of the Cornhusker State’s idyllic lakes or reservoirs this summer.
Nebraska may be a landlocked state, but what it lacks in ocean coastline, it makes up for in its abundance of small lakes and reservoirs perfect for a summer swim. While the Nebraska Sandhills in the north-central part of the state contain more than 1,500 natural lakes alone, as part of its vast networks of marshes, seasonal wetlands, and wet meadows, nearly all of this water is private land or protected wildlife habitat, like the pristine Crescent Lake, located just north of Oshkosh.
Thankfully, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission ensures Nebraskans never endure a sweltering summer without a refreshing lake swim with its series of maintained recreation areas, many of which are situated along the Interstate 80 corridor. Pack up the car with your favorite snacks, games, and water accessories, and maybe strap the canoe on top: At these sites across the Cornhusker State, you’ll beat the summer heat in style.
1. Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area
They call it Big Mac for a reason. When it comes to Nebraska’s largest bodies of water, this reservoir in Ogallala takes the gold with its 30,000 surface acres of water. The fish that swim in it reach trophy sizes themselves, with many state record holders caught from these shores. Fittingly, you have your choice of a handful of powdery, white sand beaches just waiting for you to spread out with a book or set up a game of cornhole. Of course, you’ll have to cool off in the clear waters near Arthur Bay, Sandy Beach, Martin Bay, or Cedar View, but note that lifeguards are not on duty. You may find it hard to explore all that the massive Lake McConaughy has to offer before the sun sets, so plan ahead. Camping at this state recreation area requires advance reservations during peak season, May 20-September 10.
2. Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area
Near the Cornhusker State’s border with South Dakota lies a swimming spot fit for adventurers. The Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area in Crofton offers a swimming beach paired with disc golf courses, modern cabins fit for glamping, sites for traditional camping, boating, birding, and more. From the sandy shores of the beach, you’ll be able to watch a lot of the action—anglers will be searching for bluegill and bass at Weigand Marina just east, while the marina itself tempts travelers with its soft-serve ice cream swirls and candy bars.
3. Lake Minatare State Recreation Area
Surrounded by historical and natural gems like Chimney Rock, Wildcat Hills, and the North Platte National Wildlife Refuge, Lake Minatare State Recreation Area is a crown jewel with its 2,000 acres of clear, calm waters ready to welcome swimmers, water skiers, and anglers alike. The park’s famous Plains Lighthouse offers picturesque views of the lake and surrounding river valley from the top. Unfortunately, summer doesn’t last forever at Lake Minatare: Public access to the state recreation area is closed from October 15 through January 15 to protect migratory birds and other wildlife.
4. Calamus Reservoir State Recreation Area
The little ones will leave in awe after a summer day spent in Burwell at Calamus Reservoir State Recreation Area. Apart from its shallow waters and multiple entry points fit for swimming, what makes Calamus unique and memorable is its fish hatchery—one of only five owned by Nebraska Game and Parks across the state. Take the kids on a self-guided tour and learn more about the diverse species grown here, which are used for angling or conservation purposes. This state recreation area also makes a great home for picnicking, with more than 200 grills and tables available.
5. Louisville State Recreation Area
Visitors to Louisville State Recreation Area can return to this family-friendly site a handful of times without ever having the same experience twice. With five sandpit lakes sitting over 192 acres, variety is the spice of life at Louisville SRA. In the mood for a relaxing float in calm waters? Swimming at Lake No. 2 is open from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Rather get your paddles wet with a canoe or kayak excursion? Louisville offers access to explore the Platte River. Traveling with little ones? Spend the afternoon splashing around in the lifeguard-maintained, floating playground, which includes a climbing wall, monkey bars, and other fun yet challenging obstacles. Can’t get enough of the excitement by sunset? Camping sites abound, but note that advance registration is only available for half of the electrical sites. All others are first-come, first-served.
6. Two Rivers State Recreation Area
An overnight stay is a must at Two Rivers State Recreation Area in Waterloo, located just a 30 to 40-minute drive west from Omaha. Here you’ll find no ordinary lakeside campsite—instead, you can sleep in a refurbished Union Pacific train caboose, now with chilly A/C, tiled bathrooms and showers, kitchens, and dining spaces to boot. Of course, your days will be spent outside—strap on your suit and head straight to Lake No. 4 for (unsupervised) swimming Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
7. Medicine Creek State Recreation Area
This slice of serenity in southwestern Nebraska’s Cambridge is an idyllic getaway for couples. The more sporty of the pair will have much to stay busy with between swimming at the public beach, throwing at a nine-hole disc golf course, and aiming at the archery range at Medicine Creek State Recreation Area. The cozier partner can relax at the sandy beach or even stay in bed at one of the luxe, modern lakeside cabins at the Shady Bay Campground. These 532-square-foot units with covered decks overlooking the lake come equipped with everything you might need, down to linens and utensils. Cabins are available to reserve.
8. Windmill State Recreation Area
Sitting at the Gibbon Interchange between Kearney and Grand Island, Windmill State Recreation Area gets its name from a series of old-fashioned windmills towering over the grounds. The oldest comes from Colorado, where it was used to pump water for steam locomotives in the 1800s. That sense of wonder and whimsy follows you throughout Windmill State, from the mile and a half of trail winding throughout the park to the 18-hole disc golf course, complete with discs available for rent. Play a lakeside game of volleyball in the powdery white sands before taking a swim from the designated beach on the west side of Lake No. 5.
