The Ogallala area offers adventurous visitors the opportunity to explore the largest lake in Nebraska, Lake McConaughy.
Christopher Amundson
community of 4,600 is the home of Nebraska’s largest reservoir. Lake McConaughy is a water-lover’s paradise. At full pool, it is 22 miles long and nearly 4 miles wide. Kingsley Dam holds back the waters of the North Platte River to form the reservoir. Anglers reel giant walleye and feisty wipers from the depths. Stripers weighing more than 60 pounds have been hooked in this Sandhills lake. Miles of sand beaches attracts sunbathers and artistic sand castle creators. Water-skiers trail behind powerboats, and sailors ride the breeze. Nearly 2 million travelers visit “Big Mac” every year. There seems to be plenty of room for everyone to stake out their own tranquil stretch of beach. The Lake McConaughy Visitors Center and Water Interpretive Center has exhibits explaining the High Plains Aquifer and the Platte River watershed. Plantings around the building include native prairie plants.
EXPERIENCE
LakeMcConaughy A four-season outdoor recreation paradise Largest lake in 3 states White sand beaches Explore the area’s Old West heritage at the Petrified Wood & Art Gallery, Boot Hill, Mansion on the Hill Museum and more!
Just off I-80 at Ogallala Exit 126 58
NEBRASKA TRAVELER
Check out OutdoorNebraska.gov for camping info 800-658-4390 • ILoveLakeMac.com • ExploreKeithCounty.com Presented by the Keith County Visitors Committee
