Open

Open year-round. Peak season runs May 20 through September 10, requiring advance reservations up to 180 days out for campground sites and 30 days for beach camping. First-come, first-served camping available September 11 through May 19. A temporary statewide burn ban is currently in effect prohibiting wood and charcoal fires; propane stoves and firepits are permitted. Alcohol is prohibited throughout the recreation area.

Red Flag Warning issued June 10 at 4:15PM CDT until June 10 at 9:00PM CDT by NWS North Platte NE

3:15 PM — 8:00 PM

* AFFECTED AREA...Fire Weather Zone 204 Eastern Panhandle/Crescent Lake NWR. * TIMING...Until 8 PM MDT * WINDS...West 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 45 mph. * RELATIVE HUMIDITY...As low as 12 percent. * TEMPERATURES...Up to 85. * IMPACTS...Any fire starts may rapidly grow and spread. Fires will be difficult to control.

About

Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area, located eight miles northeast of Ogallala, encompasses Nebraska's largest reservoir with 30,000 surface acres and over 100 miles of shoreline. Known as "Big Mac," the lake draws visitors for swimming, boating, fishing, windsurfing, and jet skiing. Seven established campgrounds offer varied accommodations: Lone Eagle provides 84 full-service sites with water and sewer hookups; Little Thunder has 42 sites mixing full-service and electric plus; and Cedar View offers 102 sites including ADA-accessible options. Martin Bay, Sandy Beach, Otter Creek, and Spring Park round out the campground options with basic and primitive sites. Beyond designated campgrounds, 17 beach camping areas allow campers to set up directly on the sand, subject to water levels and 30-day advance reservations. Each established campsite includes a picnic table and ground grill. Modern facilities at most campgrounds include flush restrooms, showers, and drinking water, while some areas feature primitive restrooms. Dump stations serve RV campers, and fish cleaning stations are located at Martin Bay, Otter Creek, and Cedar View. The surrounding area supports wildlife viewing and bird watching, and nearby concessionaires offer lodging, boat rentals, and supplies.

Directions

From Ogallala, take US Highway 61 north approximately 8 miles to the Martin Bay entrance. The Cedar View entrance is accessible from Nebraska Highway 92 at the west end of the lake. Additional entrances at Arthur Bay and Sandy Beach are accessible from Highway 61.

Amenities

Water Yes
Fires Allowed No
Toilets Yes
Dump Station Yes
Wifi
Pets Allowed Yes
Showers Yes
Electric Hookups Yes
Water Hookups Yes
Sewer Hookups Yes
Camp Store
Price $20 - $60

Vehicle

Max RV Length 60ft
Max Trailer Length
Big Rig Friendly
Pull Through Sites No

Contact

Phone +1 (308) 284-8800

Cell Service

AT&T Yes
Verizon Yes
T-Mobile None

Availability

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