15 Best Lakes in Nebraska

Prepare to have your perceptions of the Midwest completely transformed, because Nebraska, often overlooked for its coastal counterparts, holds a sparkling secret: an incredible array of pristine lakes that beckon with adventure, tranquility, and breathtaking natural beauty. Far from being just “flyover country,” the Cornhusker State boasts diverse aquatic playgrounds, from vast sandy oases perfect for power boating to serene, secluded spots ideal for quiet reflection and wildlife spotting. Imagine golden sunsets over shimmering waters, the thrill of a fish on the line, or the laughter of family building sandcastles on a lakeside beach.

Nebraska’s lakes offer all this and more, providing a refreshing escape for every type of traveler. The best time to visit these aquatic gems is typically from late spring through early fall, when the weather is warm and inviting for water activities, though many offer year-round appeal for fishing or ice sports. You’ll find a welcoming atmosphere and a chance to truly unwind and reconnect with nature. Get ready to dive into the heart of Nebraska’s hidden watery wonders!

Lake McConaughy; Keith County

Lake McConaughy, often affectionately known as “Big Mac,” is Nebraska’s largest reservoir and a true jewel in the state’s crown, offering an experience that rivals coastal destinations. Its vast, clear waters and white sandy beaches stretch for miles, inviting you to imagine yourself on an ocean shore right in the heart of the Great Plains. This immense lake is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, from exhilarating jet skiing and power boating to serene paddleboarding and kayaking. Anglers flock here for its reputation as a premier walleye fishery, but you can also reel in wipers, catfish, and bass.

Beyond the water, you’ll find ample opportunities for camping right on the beach, creating unforgettable sunrise and sunset views over the expansive lake. The surrounding area also offers hiking trails and wildlife viewing, making it a comprehensive outdoor adventure destination. Families will adore the safe, shallow swimming areas, while couples can enjoy romantic evenings under star-studded skies, far from city lights. Its sheer size and diverse offerings make it a unique escape, particularly popular during the summer months when its beaches come alive with activity.

Lake Wanahoo; Saunders County

Lake Wanahoo, nestled conveniently near Wahoo in Saunders County, offers a refreshing contrast to the vastness of McConaughy, providing a more intimate and accessible outdoor experience. This 637-acre lake is a haven for anglers, particularly known for its excellent largemouth bass, bluegill, and channel catfish populations. Electric motors are permitted, making it a peaceful spot for fishing from a boat or kayak without the disturbance of gas engines.

Beyond fishing, Lake Wanahoo boasts well-maintained hiking and biking trails that wind around the lake, offering scenic views and opportunities for birdwatching. You might spot various waterfowl, deer, and other local wildlife. The lake also features a designated swimming beach, perfect for cooling off on a warm day, and a playground for the little ones. Its manageable size makes it an ideal destination for a relaxing day trip or a casual weekend getaway, appealing especially to families seeking a calm environment and nature lovers who appreciate a tranquil setting.

Lewis and Clark Lake; Cedar County

Lewis and Clark Lake, forming part of the border between Nebraska and South Dakota, is a magnificent body of water renowned for its dramatic bluffs, diverse recreational opportunities, and rich historical significance as part of the Missouri River system explored by the famous expedition. This sprawling reservoir offers something for everyone, from avid anglers chasing walleye, bass, and crappie, to boaters enjoying its expansive waters for skiing, tubing, and sailing. You’ll find numerous sandy beaches perfect for swimming and sunbathing, and several campgrounds offering stunning lakeside views.

The surrounding state parks and recreation areas, like Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area and Niobrara State Park, provide excellent hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and even horseback riding. The unique geology of the bluffs creates a picturesque backdrop, making it a favorite for photographers and nature enthusiasts. Families will appreciate the variety of activities, while history buffs can connect with the legacy of exploration that shaped the region.

Harlan County Reservoir; Harlan & Phillips Counties

Harlan County Reservoir, located in south-central Nebraska near Republican City, stands as the second-largest lake in the state, offering an expansive playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Its vast open waters are a dream for sailors and powerboaters, allowing for exhilarating speeds and ample space to maneuver. Anglers consistently praise Harlan for its exceptional fishing, particularly for walleye, wipers, crappie, and catfish, making it a prime destination for fishing tournaments.

You’ll discover numerous coves and inlets perfect for quieter kayaking or paddleboarding, alongside several well-maintained sandy beaches ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The surrounding Harlan County Lake Project area provides extensive camping options, from primitive sites to those with full hookups, allowing you to wake up to stunning lake views. Beyond the water, hunting opportunities are available in designated areas, and birdwatchers will delight in the diverse avian species that frequent the area, especially during migration. This lake is perfect for groups of friends seeking adventure, families looking for a comprehensive outdoor vacation, and serious anglers.

Glenn Cunningham Lake; Douglas County

Glenn Cunningham Lake, located within Omaha’s city limits, is a true urban oasis, providing a convenient escape into nature without leaving the metropolitan area. This 390-acre lake is a popular spot for fishing, offering a healthy population of largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, and crappie. You’ll often see small boats, kayaks, and paddleboards gliding across its surface, as gas motors are restricted to 5 mph, ensuring a peaceful experience.

The lake is encircled by a well-maintained 8-mile paved trail, perfect for walking, jogging, or biking, offering scenic views of the water and surrounding parkland. You’ll also find picnic areas, playgrounds, and an archery range, making it a versatile destination for diverse interests. Families love its accessibility and varied amenities, while fitness enthusiasts appreciate the expansive trail system. It’s a fantastic spot for a quick outdoor break, a leisurely afternoon picnic, or an evening fishing session after work, providing a refreshing contrast to city life.

Carter Lake; Douglas County

Carter Lake, unique for being an oxbow lake that technically lies within Iowa but is surrounded by Omaha, Nebraska, offers a fascinating blend of urban accessibility and recreational charm. This historic lake, once part of the Missouri River, is a hub for fishing, with healthy populations of bass, catfish, and crappie. You’ll see a mix of small powerboats, pontoons, and kayaks enjoying its waters.

Beyond the aquatic pursuits, Carter Lake is home to a beautiful municipal beach, perfect for swimming and sunbathing, and a lovely park with picnic areas and playgrounds. Its urban setting means easy access to amenities, yet it still provides a sense of escape. The lake has a rich history, once serving as a popular resort destination in the early 20th century. Today, it continues to be a beloved spot for local families seeking a convenient outdoor getaway, offering a slice of summer fun right on the city’s doorstep.

Conestoga Lake; Lancaster County

Conestoga Lake, located just southwest of Lincoln in Lancaster County, provides a tranquil retreat for those seeking a peaceful outdoor experience. This 230-acre lake is part of the Twin Lakes State Recreation Area and is particularly favored by anglers for its excellent populations of bluegill, crappie, largemouth bass, and channel catfish. Its “no-wake” policy for boats ensures a calm surface, making it ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the natural surroundings.

You’ll find well-maintained walking trails that wind through the park, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a brisk jog, often offering glimpses of local wildlife. The park also features pleasant picnic areas and basic camping facilities, making it suitable for a quiet day trip or an overnight stay. Conestoga Lake is a perfect spot for solo travelers seeking solitude, couples looking for a romantic escape, and families with young children who appreciate a calm, safe environment for water activities.

Pibel Lake; Wheeler County

Pibel Lake, tucked away in Wheeler County in the Sandhills region, offers a truly authentic and serene Nebraska experience. This smaller, natural spring-fed lake is a hidden gem, providing a quiet refuge away from the bustling crowds of larger reservoirs. It’s especially popular among anglers for its healthy populations of northern pike, bass, bluegill, and perch.

You’ll find it an idyllic spot for a peaceful day of fishing from the shore or a small boat (electric motors only are preferred for maintaining tranquility). The surrounding Pibel Lake Recreation Area is known for its primitive camping, allowing you to truly disconnect and enjoy the simple beauty of nature. The unique Sandhills landscape provides a picturesque backdrop, offering opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the vast, open skies. This lake is ideal for those seeking solitude, avid anglers, and campers who prefer a rustic, back-to-basics experience where the focus is entirely on nature and relaxation.

Morning Star Lake; Merrick County

Morning Star Lake, a charming spot in Merrick County, is a prime example of Nebraska’s commitment to providing accessible and diverse fishing opportunities. This smaller lake is specifically managed as a “put-and-take” fishery, meaning it’s regularly stocked with rainbow trout during the cooler months (fall through spring), making it an incredibly popular destination for trout anglers, especially families and beginners. During the warmer months, you can also catch channel catfish and bluegill.

The lake features accessible fishing piers and a paved walking trail around its perimeter, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the scenery and cast a line. Its compact size and convenient location make it perfect for a quick fishing trip or a leisurely afternoon stroll. This lake is especially ideal for families introducing children to fishing, solo anglers looking for a reliable catch, and anyone seeking a peaceful outdoor experience without venturing too far off the beaten path.

Branched Oak Lake; Lancaster County

Branched Oak Lake, the largest lake in eastern Nebraska, is a sprawling recreational hub in Lancaster County, offering a vast array of activities just a short drive from Lincoln. Its expansive waters are a paradise for boaters, from powerboating and water skiing to sailing and windsurfing, with plenty of room for everyone. Anglers flock here for its reputation as one of the best fishing lakes in the region, boasting excellent populations of walleye, crappie, bluegill, largemouth bass, and channel catfish.

You’ll find numerous sandy beaches for swimming and sunbathing, along with extensive camping facilities ranging from primitive to full hookup sites. Beyond the water, Branched Oak boasts miles of multi-use trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, a shooting range, and opportunities for hunting and wildlife viewing. Its diverse offerings make it an ideal destination for families seeking a full-service outdoor adventure, groups of friends looking for active fun, and serious outdoor enthusiasts.

Merritt Reservoir; Cherry County

Merritt Reservoir, nestled deep within the captivating Sandhills of Cherry County, offers an unparalleled experience of remote natural beauty and exceptional stargazing. This pristine lake is renowned as one of Nebraska’s premier dark sky locations, making it a dream destination for astronomers and astrophotographers who come to witness the Milky Way in stunning clarity. During the day, Merritt is a fantastic spot for fishing, particularly for walleye, northern pike, and bass, with its clear waters offering excellent visibility.

Its relatively undeveloped shoreline maintains a wild, rugged charm, perfect for those seeking solitude and a true wilderness feel. You’ll find opportunities for primitive camping right on the shore, allowing for an immersive outdoor experience. Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular due to the calm waters and scenic surroundings. This lake is a must-visit for nature photographers, stargazers, serious anglers, and anyone yearning for a peaceful escape into an untouched natural landscape.

Calamus Reservoir; Loup County

Calamus Reservoir, located in the heart of Nebraska’s iconic Sandhills in Loup County, is a testament to the region’s rugged beauty and offers an incredible array of recreational opportunities. Known for its clear, clean waters and sandy shorelines, Calamus is a prime destination for fishing, particularly for walleye, northern pike, largemouth bass, and crappie. Its expansive waters are perfect for boating, water skiing, and tubing, providing thrilling fun for all ages.

You’ll find numerous designated swimming beaches where you can relax and soak up the sun. The surrounding Calamus State Recreation Area offers a wide range of camping facilities, from primitive sites to those with full hookups, many with direct lake access. The unique Sandhills environment also provides excellent opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and even horseback riding. This lake is ideal for families seeking a comprehensive outdoor vacation, anglers looking for a productive fishing spot, and nature lovers who appreciate a wild, scenic setting.

Wehrspann Lake; Sarpy County

Wehrspann Lake, an urban gem nestled in Sarpy County just southwest of Omaha, provides a fantastic opportunity for outdoor recreation without a long drive. This 246-acre lake is part of Chalco Hills Recreation Area, making it a popular destination for fishing, with healthy populations of bass, bluegill, crappie, and catfish. Electric motors are permitted, maintaining a peaceful atmosphere for anglers and paddlers alike.

You’ll find a well-maintained, 7-mile paved trail that loops around the lake, perfect for walking, running, biking, or even rollerblading, offering scenic views and opportunities for birdwatching. The park also features numerous picnic areas, playgrounds, and an interpretive nature center, making it an excellent educational and recreational hub. Wehrspann Lake is perfect for families seeking an accessible day out, fitness enthusiasts looking for a scenic workout, and nature lovers who enjoy spotting diverse bird species in a convenient setting.

Fremont Lakes; Dodge County

The Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area, located in Dodge County, is a collection of over 20 sandpit lakes, offering a unique and incredibly diverse recreational experience. Formed from former sand and gravel operations, these lakes vary in size and character, providing a “choose your own adventure” scenario for visitors. You’ll find lakes perfect for high-speed boating and water skiing, while others are designated as no-wake zones, ideal for peaceful kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.

Anglers will appreciate the variety of fish species, including bass, crappie, bluegill, and catfish. The area boasts numerous sandy beaches for swimming and sunbathing, along with extensive camping facilities ranging from basic to full hookup sites. Miles of trails connect the lakes, perfect for walking, biking, and wildlife observation. This complex of lakes is fantastic for large groups, families with varied interests, and anyone looking for a dynamic outdoor playground with plenty of options to explore.

Lake Minatare; Scotts Bluff County

Lake Minatare, located in Scotts Bluff County in western Nebraska, offers a striking visual contrast with its deep blue waters set against the backdrop of the rugged Wildcat Hills and the iconic Scotts Bluff National Monument. This reservoir provides a serene escape with excellent opportunities for fishing, particularly for walleye, northern pike, and bass. Its generally calm waters are ideal for kayaking, paddleboarding, and smaller boats, offering stunning views of the surrounding geological formations.

You’ll find a designated swimming beach perfect for cooling off and soaking in the unique scenery. The most iconic feature is the historic stone lighthouse, a rare sight in landlocked Nebraska, which adds a unique charm and provides a picturesque landmark. The surrounding Lake Minatare State Recreation Area offers camping, picnic areas, and opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. This lake is a must-visit for photographers, nature lovers who appreciate dramatic landscapes, and families seeking a beautiful and peaceful outdoor setting.

Plan Your Visit

As you’ve seen, Nebraska’s lakes are far more than just bodies of water; they are vibrant hubs of activity, serene sanctuaries, and stunning canvases of natural beauty, each offering its own distinct charm and adventure. From the expansive, sandy shores of Lake McConaughy that feel like an ocean getaway, to the quiet, star-studded nights at Merritt Reservoir, and the urban convenience of Wehrspann Lake, you will discover a surprising diversity of aquatic experiences.

Whether you’re an avid angler, a thrill-seeking boater, a family looking for a safe swimming spot, or a nature lover yearning for tranquility, Nebraska’s lakes welcome you with open arms. Don’t let this hidden gem remain a secret any longer! Start planning your trip today, consider a Nebraska State Park permit for easy access to many of these treasures, and budget for a mix of delicious local eats and self-prepared meals to truly immerse yourself. Prepare to be inspired, delighted, and utterly captivated by the Cornhusker State’s incredible watery wonders.