Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area, often referred to as “Big Mac,” is a premier outdoor destination located in Nebraska. It’s renowned for its expansive reservoir, Lake McConaughy, which is the largest lake in the state. The area offers a variety of recreational activities such as fishing, boating, swimming, camping, and bird watching. Its white sandy beaches and clear waters make it a popular spot for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts. The surrounding landscape also provides scenic beauty and opportunities for wildlife observation and hiking.
Does Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area Offer RV Camping?
Yes, Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area does offer RV camping. The area features three campgrounds specifically designed for RVs: Lone, Little Thunder, and Cedar View. These campgrounds cater to RV campers with amenities such as electrical and water hookups, generator use, and food storage facilities. The maximum RV length accommodated is 60 feet.
Lone, Little Thunder, and Cedar View Campgrounds
All three campgrounds are situated next to Lake McConaughy and are well-equipped for RV camping. In total, these campgrounds offer 227 single-family campsites, with 119 sites providing water and electric hookups and 91 offering full hookups.
Cedar View Campground
Located at the west end of Lake McConaughy off Highway 92, Cedar View Campground boasts hard-surfaced roads, 85 Electric Plus sites, and 17 Basic sites. This area also provides water at nearly every campsite and has centrally located shower and restroom facilities.
Regarding reservations, it is important to note that all camping at Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala state recreation areas requires advance reservations during the peak season, which is from May 20 to September 10. Campground reservations can be made up to 180 days in advance, and beach camping reservations can be made 30 days in advance of your stay.
Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area Contact Details
- Address: 1475 NE-61, Ogallala, NE 69153, United States
- Phone: 308-284-8800
- Website: https://outdoornebraska.gov/location/lake-mcconaughy/
Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area RV Camping Rates
Full Hookups
- May 21 – September 12, Thursday – Saturday: $40
- May 21 – September 12; Sunday – Wednesday: $35
- September 13 – May 20; Any day: $30
Electric Plus
- May 21 – September 12, Thursday – Saturday: $35
- May 21 – September 12; Sunday – Wednesday: $30
- September 13 – May 20; Any day: $25
Basic
- May 21 – September 12, Thursday – Saturday: $20
- May 21 – September 12; Sunday – Wednesday: $15
- September 13 – May 20; Any day: $10
Primitive (Beach)
- May 21 – September 12, Thursday – Saturday: $25
- May 21 – September 12; Sunday – Wednesday: $20
- September 13 – May 20; Any day: $15
Please note that reservations are required for booking an RV site at Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area. The rates may vary with time, so it is better to check updated rates (https://outdoornebraska.gov/parks/pricing/) before making a reservation.
You can view the rates for all state parks in Nebraska here. (https://outdoornebraska.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/2024-Camping-Rates-Grid.pdf).
Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area Campground Map
Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area Amenities for RV Campers
- Electrical and Full Hookups: Many campsites at Lone Eagle and Little Thunder offer electric or full hookups, while Cedar Vue has 75 sites with hookups, accommodating RVs with essential power and water needs.
- Basic Campsite Amenities: Each site across the campgrounds is equipped with a table, fire ring, and grate, providing a comfortable and traditional camping experience.
- Sanitary Facilities: The campgrounds include flush toilets, showers, and a dump station, ensuring hygienic and convenient facilities for campers.
- Water Access: Drinking water is readily available at the campgrounds, adding to the convenience for RV campers.
Things to do at Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area
Boating
The lake’s extensive area provides ample space for boating. Visitors can explore the shoreline, fish, or engage in water sports. Boat launching services are available, especially helpful when lake levels are low.
Jet Skiing
For those seeking a more thrilling experience, jet skiing is a popular activity on the lake, suitable for leisurely cruises or more adventurous rides through the waves.
Water Skiing, Wake Boarding, & Tubing
The lake’s size and temperate waters create perfect conditions for water sports like water skiing, wakeboarding, and tubing, even on busy weekends.
Beach Lounging
The lake, bordered by the Nebraska Sandhills, boasts 100 miles of sandy shoreline, ideal for relaxing beach days. Popular areas include Martin Bay and Arthur Bay, with some stretches accessible only by watercraft.
Swimming
The sandy shores and warm summer water temperatures make swimming a favorite activity. Visitors should be mindful of changing weather conditions that can affect water calmness.
Fishing
Lake McConaughy is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with species like walleye, northern pike, white bass, wipers, catfish, and rainbow trout available in its waters.
Fishing Tournaments
The lake hosts numerous fishing tournaments throughout the year, primarily focusing on walleye and bass.
Kayaking & Stand Up Paddle Boarding
Kayaking and paddleboarding offer a peaceful way to explore the lake’s beauty while exercising. It’s advised to kayak along the shoreline to avoid boat traffic and changing water levels.
Kite Surfing
Ideal for windy days, kite surfing on Lake McConaughy provides a thrilling experience, requiring consistent wind and open waters.
Parasailing
Offering an exhilarating experience and great views, parasailing is available at the Big Mac Marina on Arthur Bay.
Camping
The lake attracts campers from Nebraska and neighboring states, with a range of camping options for both RV and tent campers. Dispersed camping is not allowed, and reservations are required during peak season.
Stargazing
The lake’s remote location and clear skies provide an excellent opportunity for stargazing, with the Milky Way often visible on clear nights.
Visiting Lake Ogallala
Known as Lake Mac’s little sister, Lake Ogallala is popular for fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and relaxation. It’s a quieter alternative, located opposite the Kingsley Dam.
Nearby Attractions at Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area
Petrified Wood Gallery (1.3 miles from Lake McConaughy)
Located in Ogallala, this gallery showcases a unique collection of ancient woods, art, and artifacts. It’s a visitor favorite for those interested in natural history and paleontology.
Boot Hill Cemetery (1.1 miles from Lake McConaughy)
This 1880s Texas Trail era cemetery in Ogallala is historically significant. It’s known for being the final resting place of cowboys who met untimely ends, often buried with their boots on. The cemetery offers a glimpse into the wild past of the Old West, with stories of gun battles and outlaws.
Mansion on the Hill (1.2 miles from Lake McConaughy)
This Victorian home in Ogallala, built in 1887, now serves as a museum. It offers tours during the summer, allowing visitors to explore the rich history and architecture of the late 19th century.
Prairie Theater (1 mile from Lake McConaughy)
Located in Ogallala, this theater adds a cultural touch to the area. It’s a place to enjoy various performances, reflecting the local arts scene.
Spruce Street Station (1.1 miles from Lake McConaughy)
This restored 1922 Standard Oil station in Ogallala serves as a summer visitors center. It represents the early 20th-century history of the region.
Front Street Crystal Palace Revue (1.3 miles from Lake McConaughy)
A summer stock theatre production in Ogallala, known for its Old West shoot-out shows. It’s the longest-running summer stock theatre production in Nebraska, offering entertainment with a historical twist.
Cornhusker Lanes (1.6 miles from Lake McConaughy)
For those looking for indoor recreation, this bowling alley in Ogallala offers a fun, family-friendly environment.
Ash Hollow State Historical Park (near the west end of Lake McConaughy in Garden County)
This park commemorates a famous stopping point on the Oregon/California Trail. It features a modern interpretive center, Ash Hollow Cave, and reveals over 30 million years of geologic history, including fossils of prehistoric mammals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lake McConaughy known for?
Lake McConaughy is known for being Nebraska’s largest reservoir, offering a range of recreational activities. It’s especially famous for its excellent fishing, extensive boating opportunities, and beautiful white sandy beaches. The lake’s scenic beauty and abundant wildlife also make it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers.
Can I swim at Lake McConaughy?
Yes, you can swim at Lake McConaughy. The lake’s sandy shores and pleasant summer water temperatures make it a popular spot for swimming. The water is generally calm, providing a relaxing environment for swimmers and those looking to enjoy water activities. However, visitors should be mindful of changing weather conditions that can quickly alter water calmness.
Is there beach camping at Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area?
Yes, beach camping is available at Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area. The area offers a unique experience where campers can set up right on the white sandy beaches alongside the clear waters of the lake. However, during peak season from May 20 to September 10, camping, including beach camping, requires advance reservations.
Can I bring my dog to Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area?
Yes, you can bring your dog to Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area. Pets are welcome, but they must be kept on a leash at all times for the safety and comfort of all visitors and wildlife.
Does Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area offer cabins?
Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area does not offer cabin rentals. The park primarily provides camping facilities, including RV and tent sites, but visitors looking for cabin accommodations can find options in the nearby towns and surrounding areas.
Is there an entry fee for Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area?
For Nebraska residents, the annual permit costs $35, with the option of purchasing a duplicate annual permit for $17.50 and a daily permit for $7. For non-residents, the annual permit is priced at $70, with a duplicate annual permit available for $35 and a daily permit for $14.