Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area
00 review79025 Sherman Dam Road, Loup City, Nebraska, 68853, United States
Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area
$15.00 - $23.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$23.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Campground fees range from $15 for primitive sites to $23 for electric sites ($15 camping fee plus $8 daily use fee).
About this campground
Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts to experience Nebraska's premier water playground, where fishing adventures and water sports reign supreme across a sprawling lake landscape. This versatile destination caters to every camping style, from full-service RV sites to rustic tent spots and cozy cabin rentals. Modern amenities including coin-operated showers, well-maintained picnic areas, and convenient boat ramps ensure comfort meets adventure at every turn.
Sherman Reservoir offers a variety of camping options, including primitive, RV, and tent camping, along with cabins for rent.
Historical SignificanceSherman Reservoir stands as a testament to Nebraska's commitment to outdoor recreation and water resource management, serving generations of families who have made lasting memories along its shores.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic personality of Nebraska's seasons at Sherman Reservoir, where spring breezes create perfect conditions for sailing enthusiasts, while summer brings ideal temperatures for swimming and lakeside relaxation. Autumn transforms the landscape as water levels adjust, revealing new shoreline treasures and fishing opportunities. Winter blankets the area in serene beauty, with snow-dusted hills and crystalline air creating a peaceful retreat for hardy cold-weather campers.
ElevationThe gently rolling terrain of central Nebraska creates natural vantage points throughout the recreation area, offering sweeping views across the water and surrounding countryside.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover why visitors like Rebecca Moore declare Sherman Reservoir a 'beautiful' destination that captivates from first sight. The shimmering 2,845-acre lake serves as the centerpiece of this scenic wonderland, embraced by 4,721 acres of rolling hills that paint an ever-changing canvas throughout the seasons. While nature's forces have sculpted some dramatic shoreline features through erosion, these areas add to the wild character that makes each visit unique.
Geological RegionNestled in the heart of central Nebraska's iconic rolling prairie landscape, Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area showcases the region's characteristic blend of agricultural heritage and natural beauty. This vast 7,566-acre playground demonstrates how water and land harmonize in the Great Plains, where gentle hills meet expansive waters to create a recreational oasis amidst the traditional farming country.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible boat docks are available, but no additional accessibility details regarding campsites or restrooms were provided.
Sites SizeSites in the West Ridge loop accommodate equipment up to 60 feet in length, making them suitable for larger RVs or trailers.
Sites PrivacySites described as spacious. However, user reviews indicate that some sites lack sufficient privacy due to minimal tree cover.
Total Campsites117 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Trees aren't tall enough to provide any more shade to the entire campground" (Barbara Cherek). For privacy and quiet, the secluded coves at the southwest end of the lake are recommended.
Best CampsitesThunder Bay site 2 and 3 offer lake views and shade. Site 7 at the top of the hill has evening shade.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not explicitly stated.
Check-out
Not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
Not explicitly stated in the sources.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 guests per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSite layouts include loops, with sites spaced apart and gravel pads for trailers. Fire pits are located near the roads instead of at the back of the sites.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open year-round, though services such as showers may only operate seasonally.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can likely be made through local concessionaire or official state park systems, but specific platforms are not mentioned.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot explicitly stated, though some user reviews imply availability of first-come, first-served sites.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not specified in the authoritative sources.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Picnic tables
Dump station
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Sherman Reservoir offers a broad range of recreational opportunities, from water sports to wildlife viewing.
Hiking
There are no designated hiking trails, but some visitors have explored the wildlife refuge areas for hiking.Fishing
The reservoir is renowned for fishing, with species such as walleye, white bass, and crappie being abundant. Fisherman's Bridge is a popular spot for catching walleye and white bass.Boating
All types of boats are permitted. There are three ramps and three boat docks, making the area suitable for boating enthusiasts.Wildlife viewing
The wildlife refuge areas provide opportunities for observing local fauna, though no specific species were mentioned.Water Sports
Water sports of all kinds are very popular on the lake, facilitated by the three ramps and boat docks.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Not explicitly stated but likely includes common fire policies for state parks.
- Quiet hours are not enforced adequately according to user reviews.
Hazards
General hazards"Ground is so washed away couldn't even sit next to lake" (Steven Melleny). Narrow roads and lack of shade are potential hazards, along with occasional overcrowding and lack of water access.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 52%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 3.2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are not detailed in the authoritative sources but may be available in nearby Loup City, including hospitals, police stations, and fire departments.
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly stated, though user reviews indicate higher water levels and activity in spring and summer.
Trash and recyclingOne user review indicated concerns about insufficient trash facilities, stating: "It would be nice if they had more than one dumpster, or some trash barrels."
Proximity to water featuresMany campsites are near Sherman Reservoir, but access to water for fishing and swimming is limited unless users have boats.
Common complaints"No way to access the water for fishing, swimming, etc." (Laura Lutz). Complaints include poorly located fire pits, lack of shade, crowded conditions, and maintenance issues.
Host"Everyone at the Marina is always super nice and very helpful" (Lea Bird).
Campground Map
79025 Sherman Dam Road, Loup City, Nebraska, 68853, United States
Driving directionsFrom Loup City - 4 miles east on 790th Road, then 1 mile north on Sherman Dam Road. From Ashton - 4 miles west on NE-92, north 1 mile on 480th Road, west 1.5 miles on 790th Road, then 1 mile north on Sherman Dam Road.
The campground is accessible via paved roads, though some user reviews mention narrow and poorly maintained roads in certain areas. Accessibility may be impacted by weather conditions or heavy traffic during peak times.Nearby places
Loup City is approximately 5 miles away (about 10 minutes), Ashton is 8 miles away (about 15 minutes), and Calamus State Recreation Area is less than an hour's drive.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are likely available in nearby Loup City, which also has a city park, pool, and modern lodging options. Supplies may also be available at Trade Winds Marina.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Sherman Reservoir are mixed, with some praising its fishing and water activities while others criticize issues like noise, lack of access to water for non-boaters, and campground maintenance.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
- Great fishing opportunities, especially at Fisherman's Bridge. - Spacious sites with late afternoon shade in certain areas. - Convenient access to a fish cleaning station and nearby marina. -...
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Common Concerns
- Noise and lack of enforcement of quiet hours. - Limited access to the water for non-boaters. - Insufficient tree cover, leading to a lack of shade at many sites. - Maintenance issues in cabins,...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring a boat if you want to fully enjoy the water-based activities. - Choose sites with natural shade, such as site #3 at Thunder Bay. - Be prepared with a tarp and other rain protection for tent...
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Seasonal Insights
- Summers are highly popular but can be crowded and noisy. - Fall is noted for primitive camping and better fishing conditions with lower water levels.
Camper Quotes
"Our favorite place in NE for primitive camping. The water levels were quite low this year, but the folks at the Marina are top-notch." – Scott Fuhrman. "Fisherman's Bridge [is] great for catching...
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Site-Specific Reviews
- Site #3 at Thunder Bay offers a lake view and late afternoon shade. - Site #7 on the top of the hill also provides evening shade.
Accessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews were found.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and most sites accommodate them. However, no specific feedback on pet facilities was mentioned.
Last updated August 10, 2025