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Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area

Ogallala, NE

No photo available for Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area
Fee: Nebraska park entry permit required: $7 daily / $35 annual (Nebraska-plated vehicle); $14 daily / $70 annual (other vehicles). Camping rates differ from the statewide schedule at this park, especially in peak season.

About this park

Lake McConaughy is Nebraska's largest reservoir, with 30,000 surface acres built behind Kingsley Dam, among the largest of its type in the world, about eight miles northeast of Ogallala. White sand beaches and clear waters make it a draw for swimming, boating, water skiing, windsurfing, and scuba diving. Fishing includes walleye, channel catfish, northern pike, wiper, and bass. The area has an archery range, a playground, three fish cleaning stations, and a visitor center with aquariums and educational exhibits. Hunting and picnicking are also available. Camping is offered at Martin Bay, Little Thunder, Lone Eagle, Sandy Beach, Cedar View, Spring Park, and Otter Creek campgrounds, plus 17 designated beach camping areas and about 1,000 non-designated sites. In peak season (May 20 to September 10) advance reservations are required, up to 180 days ahead for campgrounds and 30 days for beach camping. Off-season sites are first-come, first-served.

Contact & location

📞 (308) 284-8800
📍 1475 Highway 61N, Ogallala, NE, 69153

Nearby state parks

🌲Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area · Keystone · 6.9 mi
🌲Ash Hollow State Historical Park · Lewellen · 17.2 mi
🌲Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area · Sutherland · 35.6 mi

Map

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Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area FAQ

Where is Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area located?
Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area is in Ogallala, Nebraska, at 1475 Highway 61N. GPS coordinates: 41.24867, -101.7952. Get directions.
Is there an entrance fee at Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area?
Nebraska park entry permit required: $7 daily / $35 annual (Nebraska-plated vehicle); $14 daily / $70 annual (other vehicles). Camping rates differ from the statewide schedule at this park, especially in peak season. Fees can change by season, so confirm with the park before you go.
How do I contact Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area?
You can call (308) 284-8800. The park office can confirm RV site availability, hookups, length limits and current conditions.
Are there RV campgrounds near Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area?
Yes. The closest RV-friendly campgrounds listed on ParkedRV are:Distances are straight-line miles.
How current is this information about Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area?
This listing was last updated on October 4, 2026. If something is out of date, let us know and we'll fix it.