We went in early August in the afternoon, and there was hardly anyone there! The sand on the swimming beach is some of the best sand I've ever experienced (even at ocean beaches). We were just making a quick stop, so we only waded out in the water, but it was warm and clear, and we had fun digging and building in the sand.
Great sailing lake way out in western Nebraska. Windsurfing competition half here, too. Not what you would expect
We didn't have a lot of time to spend there but we did stop at the visitor's center and learned quite a lot about the construction of the dam and the water in the plains. It was quite enjoyable. We also went down to the lake at Martin 5 and stuck our toes in. I was disappointed to see a few broken bottles and some trash on the beach but other than that, it seemed like a lovely place to spend a day.
Lake McConaughy is a 4 hour drive from my home town of Denver Colorado. The lake which is approximatly 28 miles long and 4 miles wide can be found in the Sandy dunes of SW Nebraska. Because of the location the lake has miles and miles of soft brown sandy beaches. The south side shore is much more remote and fill of natural plants and animals. The north side of the lake has multiple small town's, camp grounds, marinas and public access. The fishing varies from season to season but due to the lakes size it can produce absolute monster size fish. early to late summer the water is clear, warm and enviting! Water sports abound including parasailing! Every LAbor daty the lake host a sailing regatta. If camping is not your idea of a beach vacation there are rental homes in Lemoyne and rental trailers in North Shore. Both locations include AC, shower and bathrooms. Rental water craft are also available around the dam and other locations. This is a beautiful, laid back lake with Mexico beaches and a Nebraska farmer attitude.
We have been to Lake McConaughy 2 years in a row now, and absolutely love it! We camped in Lone Eagle Campground both times, although you can camp on the beach if you have a tent or trailer. The campground is well maintained, but watch out for the goat heads! They're everywhere, and they attach to everything. (Don't walk around barefoot or wear soft soled shoes) The public rest room and showers are kept very clean. We camped in site #29, which has a view of the lake & a path to the beach if you want to walk instead of driving to one of the parking lots that have beach access. We took our car onto the beach each day. You have to have either 4 wheel drive or all wheel drive or you WILL get stuck. There are tractors that will pull you out if that happens for a fee. There are restrictions in place on the beach, although we didn't see any rangers on the beach or in the campground the 5 days we were there. You can bring any kind of floats, toys, shelters, etc. on the beach. Dogs are also ok. As I said, no enforcement, but none was needed while we were there. It's a great place to go and enjoy the water. We will go back again next summer!
Water, sand, nature - yes. Train - no. You better stay at the hotel, not in a tent. People with kids - this place is for you!
This is a very large lake that is great for summer time activities. It is about 21 miles long and 3 miles across. Great sandy beaches especially on the north side of the lake. It is 9 miles north of Ogallala. Great fishing & boating. Beware of the wind & if it comes up then get off the water ASAP. If you want a camp fire bring your own wood as there is a limited supply to pick up on the beach to burn. It does require a parks pass and some camp sites are fee based also. There are numerous places to shop for snack items but it is pricey. So shop in town 1st or bring it from home with you.
I used to live in Ogallala, NE, and often went to the beautiful and huge - Lake McConaughy. It truly is beautiful. A great place to take your boat/seado's, go fishing all day, take a picnic, sunbathe, take the family, go hiking in the nearby areas. Have a great BBQ on the lake. You can drive your car right on the sand. Don't miss it. It's a little drive, but very easy, off the Highway. It is about a 4 hour drive from Denver, CO. You have to go. It is so big - and it is never crowded like southern California lakes. You'll relax and enjoy. I love it there and cannot wait to go back. In the winter - it snows --- so not a good time to go.
Lake MConaughy is awesome, if you come prepared. With a 4 wheel drive vehicle, you can camp anywhere on the white sand beaches. Definitely bring some shade with you because it is sunny and hot all summer long. Also bring bug and fly spray. Our only disappointment with the trip were the biting flies. Otherwise, great fun for everyone, and our dogs loved it.
The lake was beautiful and there are lots of places to access the shore. A peaceful place with lovely scenery and convenient places to park and picnic.