Sandy Beach - Lake McConaughy SRA, near Ogallala, Nebraska, is a fantastic spot for those looking to camp right by the water. With its beautiful lakeside views, you can wake up and step straight into the refreshing water, making it a perfect getaway for families and pets alike.

This campground allows fires, so you can roast marshmallows and share stories around the campfire as the sun sets. Visitors have raved about the cleanliness and peacefulness of the area, with one camper noting, “We never thought we would be staying on a beach in Nebraska! It was so clean and peaceful!!” 

If you’re into water activities, this place is a dream. Some campers have mentioned wishing they had brought inflatable paddleboards to enjoy the lake even more. Plus, the sunsets here are something special, with one reviewer describing it as feeling like they were at an ocean beach right in the heart of Nebraska.

While it can get hot, especially in September, the easy access to the lake makes it manageable. Just be cautious when driving down to the beach; it’s easy to get stuck if you’re not careful. Whether you’re here for a quick stop or a longer stay, Sandy Beach offers a unique camping experience that you won’t forget.

To create a safer, family-friendly environment, all camping at Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala State Recreation Areas will be by advanced reservation only. Reservations are available 180 days in advance for designated camp sites and 30 days in advance for beach camping. To learn more visit: http://outdoornebraska.gov/lakemcconaughy/

  

Nearly everything about Lake McConaughy is big. At 30,000 surface acres it is Nebraska’ largest reservoir, its dam is among the largest of its type in the world and its fish grow to trophy proportions, accounting for several state records. Even its nickname, “Big Mac,” reflects its size. Located eight miles northeast of Ogallala, Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area is known to most Nebraskans and residents of neighboring states as a great place for outdoor recreation. Lake Mac’s white sand beaches and clear waters are a favorite with campers, boaters, wind surfers, swimmers, water skiers, picnickers, scuba divers, hunters, anglers and others seeking outdoor fun.

  

The Lake McConaughy Visitor and Water Interpretive Center is one-quarter mile south of Kingsley Dam on Highway 61. The Visitor Center makes a great first stop upon arrival as it houses the park office, gift shop and public restrooms and offers a beautiful view of the lake. Nebraska Park Entry Permits, camping registrations, fishing and hunting licenses and more helpful information to enhance your visit are all available here. The Center also houses two 1,000 gallon aquariums as well as interactive educational exhibits depicting the story of water in Nebraska and the history, hydrology and geology of the North Platte River Valley and Lake McConaughy. Learn about the construction of Kingsley Dam made from original photos and 8mm footage in the Ethel S. Abbott Theater.

Looking for a location to host your next meeting? Lake McConaughy’s conference room and Ethel S. Abbott Theater are available to rent for meetings and special events.

Fishing has long been a favorite activity at Lake McConaughy, with its cool, clear, deep waters. Game fish species include walleye, channel catfish, Northern pike, wiper, smallmouth and white bass, among others. The area has three fish cleaning stations located at Martin Bay, Otter Creek and Cedar View. The area offers several boat ramps with docks, depending upon water level. Contact the Visitor's Center for ramp availability. Fuel and boat rental are available from vendors around the lake.

The area’s white sand beaches make it a popular destination for swimmers and those who want to hang out on the shore and soak up the sun. Swimming is allowed at beach areas unless otherwise posted. Lifeguards are not on duty.

The Park Naturalist hosts many events throughout the year. Check the Outdoor Calendar or call the Park Office at 308-284-8800 for up to date information.

CHECK-IN AND CHECK-OUT If you check out early, the unused portion of your payment will be forfeited. Campers with reservations must check in with staff either at a kiosk (fee booth) or at the Visitor Center. Check-In time is from 2 pm MST ¿ 9 pm MST. Please be prepared to provide your name and reservation number. Your reservation number can be accessed from your confirmation email, or by logging into your Reserve America account.   
  
All overnight campers must: Make a reservation in advance. Check in with park staff before proceeding to their campsite   
  
Guests must be checked in by 9 pm. Lake McConaughy SRA has a gating system in place. Gates will close at 9 pm. Check-out is at Noon (12 pm MST) on the last day of your stay. Quiet hours are from 10 pm to 6 am.  
  
**[See Reservation Policies details](https://nebraskastateparks.reserveamerica.com/resource/contracts/ne/ReservationPolicies.pdf)**

Sandy Beach Campground — Lake McConaughy SRA

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Ogallala. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Ogallala, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Ogallala

The Best Camping Near Ogallala, Nebraska

Felt like I was at an ocean beach in the middle of NEBRASKA. Paid the necessary dues at the entrance to the beach area and then drove along the water to find the perfect spot. Backed the Jeep up to the water and called it home for the night. It was a little windy the day I stayed there...hopefully it is calmer most days. I think you can find other spots in coves that would guard you from the wind if needed. Great sunset and sunrise views.

Great ocean beach camp spot in the middle of the country

This is a very cool spot. Many beach camping areas at Lake McConaughey. Some people have pulled their trailers within feet of the water to make for some great camping.  

Beach camping

Was such a surprising and awesome spot.  Stopped here at while driving towards Yellowstone, once there, I wish we would have packed the inflatable paddleboard.

Beach camping 

We camped right on the water. The spot was beautiful. Wake up walk into the lake. At night little frogs like to reveal themselves from the sand. Dog loved it. Kids loved it. It was very hot but the East access to the lake made it better. Canopy needed this time of year for sure. Gets hot in September. 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. 

Lake front Success

I stayed at Beach 13 under the trees. I did not see anyone else in this area. I can imagine it’s insanely busy during the summer and that sounds miserable. There were several trains going throughout the night. There were porta potties at the parking lot and down the street was a shower bathroom facility. As with other Nebraska parks be prepared to pay for a shower. 


Photos of Sandy Beach Campground — Lake McConaughy SRA

Real photos from real campers