Lake Mcconaughy Sra

Star4.39
66 reviews
1475 Highway 61 North, Ogallala, Nebraska, 69153-5930, United States
Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Quick Facts

3,238 ft

Price

$6 - $30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

96 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens Nebraska Game and Parks Commission site

Official Website
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Lake Mcconaughy Sra
$6.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fee for electric and water sites is approximately $30 per night. Day passes for Nebraska residents are $6, while out-of-state visitors pay $8.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$30.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.39

Recommended

Based on 66 reviews

1487 Google reviews

Most mentioned

waterbeachfriendly

Some mention

noise

"Lake McConaughy SRA receives mixed reviews. Positive feedback highlights the scenic beauty, variety of activities, and pet-friendly environment. Negative reviews often focus on the presence of flies, inadequate facilities, and noise disturbances."

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Campground Map

1475 Highway 61 North, Ogallala, Nebraska, 69153-5930, United States

Lake Mcconaughy Sra

1475 Highway 61 North, Ogallala, Nebraska, 69153-5930, United States

Driving directionsTake Interstate 80 to the Ogallala Exit #126, then turn north onto Hwy 61 (or Spruce Street in Ogallala). Turn East (right) on Hwy 61 North and follow the road. The Visitor Center will be on the right-hand side of the road. 1 mile after the Visitor Center is the Kingsley Dam. After crossing the dam, take the first left for the Martin Bay entrance. You must check-in at the kiosk, or the Visitor Center, before proceeding to your camping spot.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, specifically Interstate 80 and Highway 61. Seasonal closures and road conditions were not explicitly mentioned.
Nearby places
Ogallala: 8 miles northeast
other distances/travel times not specified.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies are located greater than 10 miles from the campground. Walmart and other retail outlets are mentioned in user reviews as nearby options.

Best Time to Camp at Lake Mcconaughy Sra

Experience the dramatic beauty of Nebraska's changing seasons at Lake McConaughy. Summer brings warm, sun-soaked days perfect for beach activities, though Mother Nature occasionally reminds visitors of her power with impressive thunderstorms and winds that sculpt the sand into new patterns. When winter transforms the landscape into a serene wonderland, dedicated crews keep roads clear and accessible, allowing year-round adventurers to discover the lake's quieter, snow-dusted charm.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.5 / 5
Top 11% in NE

Summer offers warm water, peak activities and beach use but is busiest and can be crowded.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Quieter than summer with good weather and scenic views; fewer crowds reported.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Variable conditions; good turnout possible but wind and insects noted in reviews.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

Open year-round but snow can limit access; quieter and less active season.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Peak season dates are not specified.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open year-round. Seasonal conditions like snow affect accessibility.
  • Current Alerts: No active advisories were explicitly mentioned.

About Lake Mcconaughy Sra

Welcome to Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area, where pristine white sand beaches meet crystal-clear waters in an unexpected oasis on the Nebraska plains. This premier camping destination requires advanced reservations and rewards visitors with a choice of accommodations ranging from primitive beachfront sites where you can fall asleep to gentle waves, to basic campsites nestled among the dunes, and modern full hookup sites for those seeking comfort in paradise.
Lake McConaughy SRA offers a variety of camping options, including primitive beach camping, designated group sites, and sites with full electric, water, and sewer hookups.
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Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2PM MST to 9 PM MST.
Check-out
12 PM MST.
Stay Limit
Reservations must be made for all overnight camping.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Electricity hookups
Flush toilets
Dump station
Fire rings

Activities you can enjoy

Lake McConaughy SRA provides an extensive range of activities, including camping, swimming, boating, jet skiing, kayaking, hiking, and fishing. The park also hosts events such as fishing contests and sand sculpture competitions.
HikingThe grounds at Ash Hollow State Historical Park, a nearby attraction, offer over 2 miles of scenic hiking trails. The lake itself also provides opportunities for casual walking.
FishingFishing is a major draw at the lake, with game fish species such as walleye, channel catfish, Northern pike, wiper, smallmouth, and white bass being present. Fish cleaning stations are available at Martin Bay, Otter Creek, and Cedar View.
SwimmingSwimming is allowed at designated beach areas unless otherwise posted. However, lifeguards are not on duty.
BoatingBoating is a highly popular activity. Several boat ramps with docks are available, depending on water level. Fuel and boat rental services are available around the lake.
Wildlife viewingThe area is known for its bird-watching opportunities, offering an enjoyable experience for wildlife enthusiasts.
Beach activitiesActivities include sunbathing, beach camping, and general outdoor relaxation on the lake's white sand beaches.
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsStrong winds and storms are common; flies and sand fleas are also frequent complaints in user reviews. "Storms seem to come through late at night with strong winds," user Brendan Hogan notes.
Active AlertsNo active advisories were explicitly mentioned.

Weather at Lake Mcconaughy Sra

Reviews

4.4
66 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Lake Mcconaughy Sra is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Lake McConaughy SRA receives mixed reviews. Positive feedback highlights the scenic beauty, variety of activities, and pet-friendly environment. Negative reviews often focus on the presence of flies, inadequate facilities, and noise disturbances.
Review Summaries
Based on 66 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers appreciate the sugar sand beaches, clear waters, and the freedom to camp close to the water. Many enjoy the dog-friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to experience beach camping.
Based on 66 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include invasive flies, noisy campers, overcrowding, and broken shower token machines. Some reviews mention the high wind and occasional storms.
Based on 66 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring a 4x4 vehicle for beach camping, carry water shoes to avoid sharp objects in the sand, and prepare for potential weather changes like high winds. Check for operational shower token machines...
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Based on 66 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the busiest season, with warm water and ample activities, but it can also be crowded. Winter offers a quieter experience, although snow may limit mobility temporarily.
Based on 66 reviews

Camper Quotes

"One of my favorite vacation destinations that's within a close drive from Denver. The lake itself is enormous, the beaches are vast, and the whole vibe makes it feel like you're at the ocean." -...
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Based on 66 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Lone Eagle Campground receives praise for its paved, full hookup sites. Martin Bay is a favorite for family camping trips. Beach Area 11 is mentioned as recommended for its proximity to the beach.
Based on 66 reviews

Accessibility Features

Reviews suggest that accessibility is moderate, with paved sites available but limited signage creating navigation challenges.
Based on 66 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The campground is described as very dog-friendly, with ample space for pets to roam. One reviewer noted that it's a great place to take dogs to the beach for a swim.
Based on 66 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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