07/02/2024
Coming to Lake McConaughy & Lake Ogallala for the Independence Day holiday weekend? Here are some "know before you go" tips:
β’ Overnight campers will need an advance reservation to stay at the state recreation areas during peak season (5/20-9/10). This includes all campgrounds and beach camping areas at the two parks. If you're staying overnight, please check occupancy before leaving home and book an overnight campsite on the reservation system.
β’ There are many other lodging options in Keith County, including private campgrounds, hotels or cabins. Check them out at ILoveLakeMac.com.
β’ Reservations for NE Game and Parks camping at the lake can be made online, on the mobile app RA Camping, or by phone at 308-284-8800 during business hours.
β’ On holiday weekends (Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day), reservations must be for a minimum of three nights and include both Friday and Saturday.
β’ To avoid lines, please make sure to purchase your required vehicle entry permit and fishing permit ahead of time online or via a local permit vendor. Non-Nebraska registered motorized boats are required to have an Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) sticker, which can be purchased in advance as well.
β’ Designated campground sites can be reserved 180 days prior to arrival date, and beach camping sites can be reserved 30 days prior to arrival date. There are about 500 campground spots and 1,000 designated beach spots (depending on water level) available at the two state recreation areas.
β’ Same-day reservations may be made online or by phone until 5 p.m. Mountain time, if sites remain available. Once capacities are reached, no additional overnight camping will be allowed.
β’ Be aware that Martin Bay and Arthur Bay are no-wake bays year round, and fireworks are not permitted.
β’ Possession and consumption of alcohol are prohibited within both the Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala state recreation areas.