24 Of The Best Things To Do At Lake McConaughy, Nebraska

Lake McConaughy, often called Lake Mac or Big Mac, is a large reservoir in Western Nebraska.

Thanks to its expansive surface area, the lake is a popular spot for outdoor recreation — perfect for boating, water sports, kayaking, and swimming. And of course, the natural white sand beaches only add to the appeal.

Whether you’re seeking a full day of water sports, or lounging out lakeside, Lake McConaughy is great choice.

I’ve visited the lake nearly every summer of my life — my dad’s from nearby Ogallala! — I’ve spent countless days here and really love visiting.

Read on for the best things to do at Lake McConaughy, Nebraska! This includes lake activities, plus nearby attractions.

Best Things To Do At Things To Do At Lake McConaughy

Lake Activities & Water Sports

A quick note before diving into the best lake activities at Lake McConaughy: You’ll need a day pass for each vehicle in the Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area.

Day passes are about $7 for in-state residents, and $14 for out of state. There are annual park passes as well.

Passes can be purchased at the lake, via manned booths or self-pay stations. Otherwise, online at: Nebraska Game & Parks Park Entry Permits.

Boating

One of the best ways to see this sprawling lake is by boat.

Whether exploring the shoreline, fishing, or participating in water sports, there are so many ways to enjoy the lake with a boat. Best of all, the 30,000 surface acres allow plenty of room for everyone. 

Where to launch your boat will vary, as the lake level is constantly changing. You can find up-to-date information here: Lake McConaughy Boat Ramp Info.

Additionally, there are tractors for hire, which will launch your boat for you. This is especially helpful in year’s when lake levels are very low, and boat ramps are sparse. 

A list of launching services can be found at: Lake Mac Launching Services. 

Need to rent a boat? Check out a list of lake boat rentals at: Lake Mac Boat Rental.

Last, before boating at Lake Mac, please have a look over their boating regulations: Lake McConaughy Boating Regulations.

Jet Skiing 

Jet skiing is another fun way to get out and experience the lake, whether you wish to go for a leisurely cruise, or crash through the waves on a windy day.

Personally, this is how I love to explore the lake!

Need to rent a jet ski? Check out a list of lake rentals here: Lake Mac Jet Ski Rentals.

Water Skiing, Wake Boarding, & Tubing

With boating and jet skiing, comes water sports. 

The lake’s large size and pleasant water temperatures make it perfect for water activities. 

Even on busy weekends, there’s still plenty of room for everyone to spread out and safely enjoy activities like water skiing, wake boarding, and tubing. 

Lounge Out At The Beach

Lake Mac sits along the edge of the Nebraska Sandhills, meaning you can find 100 miles of sandy shoreline here. Yep, lake-goers benefit from natural white sand beaches right here in Nebraska.

So, while visiting Lake Mac, a day spend lounging at the beach is an absolute must. 

Most shoreline is public and there aren’t exactly designated beach spots.

Visitors often utilize the beach right where they camp or near their lodging. But if you’re up for it, it’s worth exploring the lake to find an area you like.  

Note: Martin Bay and Arthur Bay, both located near Kingsley Dam, are popular beach areas.

Additionally, those with a boat or jet ski can scope out stretches of beach only accessible by watercraft — these spots are among the best!

It’s important to note, water levels can change dramatically from year to year, so what to expect beach-wise will vary. On years when the water level is high, beaches become very sparse, whereas low-level years see ample shoreline.

Swimming

The sandy shores of Lake Mac make it incredibly popular for swimming and relaxing in a floatie. Plus, summer sees water temperatures in the 70°F’s.

The water is generally very calm. However, afternoon storms are common and bring on choppy conditions quickly. On windy days the lake can be rough but still (usually) swimmable for adults. 

Swimming is allowed in any beach area unless otherwise posted. Keep away from boat launches and other high traffic areas. There are no lifeguards at Lake McConaughy.

Tip: If water levels are high enough, consider jumping in the lake off the “Leave Only Your Footprints” sign near Martin Bay.

Fishing

Fishing is another major draw to Lake McConaughy.

The lake’s large size, coupled with clean waters, make it perfect for fishing opportunities. 

Walleye, northern pike, white bass, wipers, catfish, and rainbow trout are all game fish you can expect to find in the deep waters of Lake Mac.

The lake regularly sees fish of trophy proportions, and most of Nebraska’s largest catches hail from here. 

Of course, quality of the catch will always vary. Some days fishing at Lake Mac can look like the photo on the left, and others times, the photo on the right:

There are several fish cleaning stations around the lake, including those at Martin Bay, Otter Creek, and Cedar View.

Anyone over the age of 16 is required to have a fishing permit. Check out permit and additional fishing information at: Nebraska Game & Parks Fishing Permit.

Lake McConaughy fishing reports can be found at: Nebraska Game & Parks Fishing.

Last, also consider fishing at neighboring Lake Ogalalla. This smaller lake is known for walleye, bass, catfish, and especially rainbow trout. Additionally, it’s often quieter and less crowded here. 

Fishing Tournaments

Lake Mac’s excellent fishing means you can find numerous fishing tournaments here every year. Most tournaments are of the walleye or bass variety. 

If interested in participating, check out tournament information, including registration, at: Nebraska Game & Parks Fishing Tournaments.

Kayaking & Stand Up Paddle Boarding

One of my favorite things to do at Lake McConaughy is kayaking.

It’s a fun way to enjoy the quiet beauty of the lake, while getting some exercise.

I typically follow the shoreline near the beach. I’d avoid the center of the lake due to boat and jet ski traffic, plus it can get choppy out there.

Along the shoreline, be cautious of trees and dead tree branches jutting up from the water. Since the water level is constantly changing, there can be dead trees just under the surface.

Those planning to kayak or stand up paddle board, head out earlier in the day when the water is calm. Afternoon storms are common and cause the lake to become rough. Keep an eye on the forecast, as storms come in quickly.

If you’re in need of gear, check out a full list of rentals at: Lake Mac Kayak & SUP Rentals.

Kite Surfing

Windy days at Lake Mac may not be ideal for some, but for kite surfers they’re perfect. 

Kite surfing involves a small board, similar to a surf board or wakeboard, propelled by a large kite, the result is a thrilling ride. 

In order to kite surf you need consistent wind and wide open waters, a combination which can often be found at Lake McConaughy.

Note: Wind surfing is also very popular at the lake.

Parasailing 

Parasailing is another exciting water sport available on Nebraska’s largest reservoir. Parasailors are attached to a parachute-like canopy and towed behind a boat, while being lifted into the air. 

It’s an exciting experience which offers great views of the lake and surrounding area. 

Big Mac Marina on Arthur Bay offers parasailing. However, it isn’t always available, so be sure to check their website (Big Mac Marina) before heading out. If it’s unavailable during your visit, don’t worry, they still offer other great services like boat and jet ski rentals. 

Kites & Castles

A favorite event at Lake Mac is the Kites & Castles Event event held annually in late July. 

The event, ongoing for 35+ years, is a sand sculpture contest held on Lake Mac’s white sand beaches of Martin Bay.

The event is free to participate in and to attend.

Watch The Sunset

At Lake McConaughy you can expect some really epic sunsets. The pinks, oranges, and purples reflect beautifully on the calm lake. 

Best of all, great sunset views can be taken in from just about anywhere! 

Watch For Wildlife 

Lake McConaughy is known for a diverse range of wildlife, but most notably birds. 

Here, 340 species of birds have been spotted, with over 100 of those breeding in the area. Some regulars include piping plovers, pelicans, gulls, sandhill cranes, and wild turkeys, just to name a few.

In winter, large congregations of bald eagles can be found at Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala, especially around the Kingsley Dam.

Bird enthusiasts will also be pleased to know, a handful of the one million migrating sandhill cranes, which take over parts of Nebraska in March, stopover here. 

For mammals, expect small animals which regularly occupy grass and woodland areas. Think deer, raccoons, rabbits, squirrels, and the occasional coyote or fox. 

Camping 

Camping is another of the most popular things to do at Lake McConaughy. 

Warm summer weather and ample beach sites draw weekenders from in-state as well as the nearby states of Colorado, Wyoming, and Kansas. 

There’s a wide variety of campsite options for both RV and tent campers. However, please be aware that dispersed camping is no longer allowed, you may only camp in designated campgrounds. During peak season, roughly Memorial Day – Labor Day, campsites must be reserved in advance. 

You can find lots more information over on my additional guide: Lake McConaughy Camping Everything You Need To Know.

Stargazing

Lake Mac campers are in for a treat, on clear nights, the lake’s remote location is perfect for stargazing. 

Clear skies and low light population make this an ideal spot for stargazing. It’s even possible to see the Milky Way some nights.

Lake Ogallala 

Lake Ogallala (pronounced oh-guh-la-luh) is Lake Mac’s little sister, located opposite the Kingsley Dam. The lake is much smaller and often referred to as “the little lake.”

Lake Ogallala doesn’t have white sandy beaches and doesn’t allow motorized boats. So it’s most popular for activities like fishing, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, and quiet relaxation. 

Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area is also managed by Nebraska Game & Parks, and adheres to the same rules as Lake Mac. This means each vehicle will need a day pass, which you can purchase at: Nebraska Game & Parks Lake Ogallala.

Off-Lake Activities 

Lake McConaughy Visitor Center & Water Interpretive Center 

The Lake McConaughy Visitor Center & Water Interpretive Center is one of the first things you’ll see when nearing Lake Mac from Ogallala. 

The center features interactive exhibits on the lake, Platte River, and High Plains Aquifer. 

It also houses two aquariums with native Nebraska fish and a 50-seat theater which educates visitors about the construction of Kingsley Dam, which is one of the largest dams of its type in the world (my great grandpa helped build this dam!). 

Here you can also purchase day passes for the lake, fishing licenses, speak with park officials, and browse the gift shop. It’s a good spot to stop on your way to the lake.

Ash Hollow State Historical Park

Ash Hollow State Historical Park is located on the far western (and quieter) side of Lake Mac.

The park is protected due to its historical significance. It was initially used by Native Americans and became an important stopover along the Oregon and California trails.

Not to mention, the area offers scenic views of sandstone bluffs and the North Platte River valley.

Some popular things to do in the park include hiking, learning about the area’s history at the Visitor Center, and seeing Ash Hollow Cave.

Petrified Wood Gallery

Located in Ogallala, just a short distance from Lake Mac, is the Petrified Wood Gallery.

This is a small museum which showcases a diverse collection of fossils, minerals, and petrified wood.

The museum’s exhibits include specimens dating back millions of years, showcasing the Earth’s geological history and the evolution of plant and animal life.

Lake Mac Casino Resort & Racetrack

One of the newest things to do near Lake McConaughy is Lake Mac Casino Resort & Racetrack, which opened in Ogallala in 2025. The current casino is a temporary facility with more than 300 slot machines, electronic table games, sports betting, a sports lounge, and regular live entertainment.

There’s also a 5/8-mile Quarter Horse racetrack, although live racing is limited to select dates, check out the upcoming schedule at Lake Mac Casino: Racing Events.

A much larger casino resort is planned for the property, including a hotel, restaurants, pool, and expanded gaming floor. But for now, this is still a fun option if you want something to do away from the lake for a few hours, especially in the evening or when the weather isn’t cooperating

Bars & Restaurants 

If you’re looking for a meal or cold beverages after a day spent on the lake, check out the lake’s restaurants and bars.

Some bars and restaurants around Lake McConaughy include:

• Hooks Lake Bar
• Bayside Grill
• Lakefront Express
• Cove Restaurant & Lounge
• Boxcar
• Otter Creek Lodge
• Marina Landing

During summer weekends, some bars have live music, games, and events like movie night or trivia. Cove Restaurant & Lounge, Marina Landing, Boxcar, and Hooks Lake Bar are the most likely places to find late night events.

Important Note: Cabs and Uber are nearly non-existent around the lake. Please be safe and plan accordingly.

In addition to the lakeside bars, there are bars and restaurants in nearby Ogallala. 

Ole’s Big Game Steakhouse & Lounge

If you’re up for a drive, Ole’s Big Game Steakhouse, about 30 minutes away in Paxton, is a must-visit.

The nearly 100 year old establishment opened immediately following the end of prohibition and is one of the oldest bars in Nebraska. It’s known for good food, cold beer, and games, of course, but its famous for is its decor.

The restaurant’s walls are adorned with over 200 big game trophies, including a full-mount polar bear. The collection belonged to Ole Herstedt from his 35+ safaris in the early and mid 1900s.

The animals draw in curious visitors, but the good food and laid-back, friendly atmosphere keep them coming back. 

Bayside Golf Course

Looking to hit the links while visiting Lake McConaughy? Bayside Golf Course is the place to do so.

The 18-hole public course is links-style and features wide open fairways. It also boasts some pretty incredible lake views from nearly every hole.

Tee times should be made in advance, especially over summer weekends. Weekday visitors may be able to snag a tee time last minute.

The course is exposed, therefore can be hot and sometimes very windy.

There’s no beverage cart, but if desired, they’ll furnish a cooler for you and attach it to your cart before heading out. There are water coolers on the course for refilling on hot days.

On your way out, be sure to stop by the course restaurant, Bayside Grill, for a cold drink and delicious meal. Even if you don’t plan to golf, this is a great spot to grab a bite.

Eagle Viewing Facility of Central Nebraska Public Power & Irrigation District

Winter visitors, be sure to check out Central Nebraska Public Power & Irrigation District eagle viewing facility at the Kingsley Dam. 

Both bald eagles and golden eagles are a common site in the area come colder months, roughly October – April.

The building is located on the shore of Lake Ogallala and offers a great view of the eagles as they catch fish from the lake. Hours are limited, be sure to check out Eagle Viewing Facility before heading out.

Visit Ogallala

Ogallala is the nearest town to Lake McConaughy. It’s roughly 15 miles from the lake, depending where you’re coming from.

The town was once an essential resting point for travelers heading west along the Oregon Trail and California Trail. Today the town still showcases its Wild West heritage, with attractions like Front Street and Boot Hill Cemetery.

However, it’s had many upgrades over the years. You’ll find some newer restaurants, bars, and a brewery, as well as cute boutique shops to browse.

It’s a small town, but worth a visit while enjoying Lake McConaughy.

Getting To Lake McConaughy

By Car

Lake McConaughy is located about 10 miles off I-80 in Western Nebraska.

Whether coming from the east or west, most will exit I-80 at Ogallala. From here, follow signs towards “Lake McConaughy” through town, before heading east on NE-61 N. 61 will take you right to the Kingsley Dam.

Additionally, you can exit I-80 early, at Big Springs or Paxton, then follow back roads to the lake.

Nearest Airport

The nearest airport to Lake McConaughy is North Platte Regional Airport. It’s located about an hour away (60 miles). The regional airport is primarily serviced by United Airlines (United Express).

The nearest international airport is Denver International Airport. DIA is located about 3 hours away (215 miles), and is serviced by all major airlines.

Both airports offer rental car options.

Lake McConaughy Park Passes & Parking

As mentioned earlier, you’ll need a day pass for each vehicle in the Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area.

Day passes are about $7 for in-state residents, and $14 for out of state. There are annual park passes as well.

Passes can be purchased at the lake, via manned booths or self-pay stations, or online at: Nebraska Game & Parks Park Entry Permits.

Game wardens do patrol and will ticket those without passes.

Once you have a pass, parking in the lake recreation area is free.

Where To Stay At Lake McConaughy

Lake McConaughy Camping

Camping is among the most popular lodging options at Lake McConaughy.

There are over 1,000 campsites at the lake, with options ranging from full hook up, electric, basic tent site, and primitive. Beach camping is extremely popular, but there’s also campsites back in the trees.

Most campsites are state owned and require advance reservation during peak season. Reservations for all state owned campgrounds can be made at: Nebraska Game & Parks.

Additionally, there are a few private campgrounds, which need to be booked through their respective websites.

No dispersed camping is allowed at Lake McConaughy.

You can find lots more information on my other guide: Lake McConaughy Camping Everything You Need To Know.

Lake McConaughy Lodging 

While camping is the most popular, there’s still plenty of traditional lodging options.

There are no big chain hotels on Lake McConaughy. Most lodging options are small cabins or motel-like accommodations.

A few popular places to stay on Lake McConaughy include:

• Van’s Lakeview
• Admiral’s Cove Resort
• Vogl’s Lodge and Lure
• Kingsley Dam Resort
• Bayside Golf & County Estates
• North Shore Lodge
• Lakeside Express

There’s additional lodging, including larger hotels, available in nearby Ogallala.

Lake McConaughy Is In The Mountain Time Zone

Lake Mac is located in the Mountain Time Zone, about 60 miles from the Central Time Zone border.

I’d consider this to be a significant distance away, but my iPhone doesn’t always agree. There have been years when my iPhone regularly toggles between Mountain and Central Time. Just be aware that your phone may unexpectedly switch time zones on you.

Lake McConaughy Is A Dry Lake 

Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area is alcohol-free. Yep, a dry lake.

No alcohol on the beach, on your boat, at the campsites, etc. 

Game wardens do patrol and strictly enforce this. If caught with alcohol, you’ll receive a fine and your goods will be taken. If wardens see any evidence of alcohol at your site, such as empty cans, they are allowed to search your campsite, including coolers. 

Lake McConaughy Water Level

Lake McConaughy is a reservoir, and a relatively shallow one at that. The water is primarily used for hydroelectric power generation and irrigation, before finally, recreation.

Each summer, water levels rise with snowmelt from the Rockies, and fall as water is distributed where needed. 

Because of this, what to expect when you arrive, can vary greatly.

In years when water level is high, prime beach sits under the water, limiting available sites. Whereas years of low water see miles of shoreline with plenty of sand, but with a different set of challenges, like difficulties launching boats and jetskis, etc.  

Current water levels can be found at: Lake McConaughy Water Levels.

Regardless though, it’s best to come with an open mind and prepared for anything. You could visit Lake Mac hundreds of times and always see a different footprint. 

Below is an example of how drastically lake levels can vary. The photo on the left is Lake McConaughy at roughly 50% capacity, versus 90%+ on the right. The photos are only a few years apart.

As you can see, there are so many great things to do at Lake McConaughy, especially for outdoor enthusiasts.

I hope you’ve found this helpful in planning your trip to Lake Mac. Any questions? Please leave a comment below or reach out on social media!

Looking for more ideas? Check out my additional guides below.

More Information For Your Trip To Lake McConaughy & Ogallala:

• Camping At Lake McConaughy: Everything You Need To Know

More Information For Your Trip To Nebraska & Colorado:

• Omaha, Nebraska Guides
• Denver, Colorado Guides
• All Colorado Guides