Open
Open year-round. Modern facilities including showers and restrooms operate May through mid-October. Reservations available up to 180 days in advance during peak season (May 1 to October 15). Remaining sites are first-come, first-served. Check-in 4 PM, check-out 2 PM.
About
Johnson Lake State Recreation Area sits on the shores of a 2,068-acre reservoir managed by Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District. Located 10 miles south of Lexington in Gosper County, this 68-acre park provides three access points to the lake and is popular for camping, fishing, boating, and swimming.
The Main Campground features 82 electrical pads plus 30 non-designated primitive sites, while the Inlet Campground offers 31 electrical pads and 10 primitive sites. Most electrical sites provide 50-amp service; 24 sites offer 30-amp. Electric Plus sites include water and sewer hookups. The park has modern restrooms, a shower house, dump station, fire rings, and over 100 picnic tables. A public swim beach, boat ramp, ADA-accessible fishing pier, fish cleaning station, and playground round out the facilities.
Reservations for half the campsites in the Main and Inlet campgrounds can be made up to 180 days in advance during peak season (May 1 through October 15). Remaining sites operate first-come, first-served with payment via Iron Ranger. Modern facilities are operational from May through mid-October, though the park remains open year-round.
Directions
From I-80, take exit 237 and travel 7 miles south on Highway 283. Turn right at the Cenex Ampride station, then take the first left into the park.