Lake McConaughy, Nebraska's largest reservoir at 30,000 acres, sits at 3,270 feet elevation near Ogallala. The area features white sandy beaches and clear water, unusual for Nebraska lakes, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F during camping season. Winter campers should prepare for temperatures frequently dropping below freezing with significant wind chill factors.
What to do
Beach camping and water activities: Lake McConaughy offers beach camping opportunities with direct water access. At Sandy Beach Campground, campers can set up right at the water's edge. "Backed the Jeep up to the water and called it home for the night," notes Jim H., who appreciated the "great sunset and sunrise views."
Fishing opportunities: Anglers find productive spots throughout the region. The small lake at Ogallala State Recreation Area offers alternatives to the main lake. "Morning catfishing right off the banks is excellent!" reports one reviewer, while another mentions, "Real calm at dusk on this reservoir."
Hiking trails: Several trails surround the lake area. "Lake Ogallala Trail is a 9 mile lightly trafficked out and back trail located near Ogallala, primarily used for hiking," mentions one camper, providing opportunities for exercise between water activities.
What campers like
Clean facilities with security features: Ogallala Tri-Trails KOA maintains high cleanliness standards. "The bathroom and shower facilities were so wonderful - very clean and nice to use! We also appreciated them only being accessible by keycode," writes Kara P., highlighting security features important for overnight stays.
Tent camping options: Tent campers find accommodations ranging from primitive to more developed. At Little Thunder Campground, "There is a great playground. Showers are by token. Beautiful white sandy beaches close by," notes Nancy C., adding "you can camp anywhere within the state park for $12, it doesn't have to be an actual site!"
Wildlife viewing: The region offers bird watching opportunities. At Cedar View Campground, one camper saw "the Long-billed Curlew, Burrowing Owl, and several other birds checked off our bucket list." Morning and evening hours provide the best wildlife sightings.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer brings heat, while spring and fall camping provides milder temperatures. "Gets hot in September. Canopy needed this time of year for sure," advises a camper at Sandy Beach, suggesting shade equipment for summer visits.
Terrain challenges: Sandy soil creates specific concerns for vehicles. At Sandy Beach, a reviewer cautions, "Be careful coming down to the beach. If you drive the wrong way you will get stuck taking an RV down and you can pay for a bulldozer to pull it in if you need it."
Grass burrs: Several campgrounds have issues with vegetation that affects comfort. At Cedar Vue Campground, one camper warns, "I can't recommend this campground if you are traveling with kids, dogs or anyone with feet. Our dogs were miserable," referencing the prevalence of grass burrs in certain areas.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds offer playground equipment for children. At Ogallala/I-80 KOA Journey, "They have a K-9 enclosure for a bit of pupper exercise, a playground, and a pool when it is in season," making it suitable for families with both children and pets.
Site selection for privacy: Family groups should consider location within campgrounds. At Ogallala Tri-Trails KOA, Amy notes, "We didn't love that we were placed super close to others... when there were so many open spaces with better privacy with same site-types," suggesting families request specific sites when possible.
Entertainment options: Lake activities keep children occupied. "Our kids were entertained by the pool, jumping pad, etc. Quiet at night. Bathrooms were clean," reports a family at Ogallala Tri-Trails KOA, highlighting amenities that occupy younger campers.
Tips from RVers
Water hookup arrangements: RVers should prepare for shared water connections. At Lone Eagle Campground, "Water is shared and not at every site. Bring several hoses as it's 40 - 50 feet away," advises Phillip, emphasizing the need for extra equipment.
Pull-through site availability: RV sites vary in layout and accessibility. "We received a text the day prior welcoming us and asking us not to arrive before 1:00 PM Mountain Time," notes a reviewer at Ogallala/I-80 KOA Journey, adding "Our site was plenty long enough for our 40' 5th wheel and our F450."
Pet accommodations: Pet friendly camping near Ogallala, Nebraska includes specialized sites at some locations. One camper at Ogallala/I-80 KOA Journey mentions, "Along with the regular fenced dog areas, they have several K-9 sites with private fenced dog areas," providing enhanced options for RVers traveling with pets.
