Lake Ogallala Sra
00 review1475 Highway 61N, Ogallala, Nebraska, 69153-5930, United States
Lake Ogallala Sra
$8.00 - $38.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $8 to $38 depending on campsite type and amenities. Additional fees include a $12 daily out-of-state resident use fee.
About this campground
Discover tranquility at Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area, where two distinct campgrounds create the perfect family getaway. The East campground welcomes RVs with smooth, hard-surfaced roads and convenient electric hookups, while the West campground invites tent campers and nature lovers to settle into grassy sites just steps from the water's edge. This thoughtfully designed recreation area provides a peaceful alternative to busier destinations, offering all the beauty of lakeside camping with a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere.
The campground offers a range of camping options, including RV sites with electrical hookups, primitive sites, and group camping. Tent camping is also supported.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time with a visit to nearby Ash Hollow State Historical Park, where the stories of America's westward expansion come alive. Walk in the footsteps of pioneers who traveled the great migration trails, and explore prehistoric cave dwellings that reveal thousands of years of human history. This cultural treasure adds depth to your camping experience, offering a fascinating glimpse into the lives of those who shaped the American frontier.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the magic of four-season camping at Lake Ogallala, where each season paints the landscape in new colors. Spring awakens the shoreline with wildflowers and perfect fishing conditions, while summer brings warm days ideal for swimming and water sports. Though prairie winds are part of the authentic Nebraska experience, they bring fresh air and dramatic cloud formations that photographers love. The moderate temperatures of spring and summer make these seasons particularly popular with families and outdoor enthusiasts.
ElevationNestled in the protective shadow of the impressive Kingsley Dam, the campground enjoys a unique microclimate that shields visitors from the strongest prairie winds. This strategic location below the dam creates stunning vantage points where engineering marvels meet natural beauty, offering photographers and nature lovers alike spectacular views that change with the light throughout the day.
Natural Features and SceneryAffectionately known as 'the little lake,' Lake Ogallala charms visitors with its intimate 320-acre expanse of pristine water. Mature cottonwoods and willows frame gentle shores perfect for morning coffee or evening strolls. Unlike its massive neighbor Lake McConaughy, Ogallala offers a more personal connection with nature—where every sunset feels like a private show and the morning mist creates an ethereal atmosphere across the calm waters.
Geological RegionPositioned on the eastern flank of Kingsley Dam, Lake Ogallala showcases the unique geography of Nebraska's Sandhills region. This 320-acre jewel sits in stark contrast to the 30,000-acre Lake McConaughy just beyond the dam. The landscape tells a story of human ingenuity and natural adaptation, where flat prairie terrains give way to protected coves and gentle shorelines. The dam serves as both a dramatic backdrop and a natural windbreak, creating sheltered areas perfect for camping and water recreation in this fascinating geological transition zone.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySome sites are described as level and spread out, which may facilitate accessibility. However, no specific ADA-compliant features were mentioned.
Sites SizeVaries, with some spacious and large enough to accommodate RVs of all sizes.
Sites PrivacyOffers a balance of privacy and openness, with some sites directly on the lake providing scenic views and shade.
Total Campsites82 campsites
Recommended CampsitesLakeside sites are the most recommended for scenery and proximity to water activities.
Best CampsitesCampsite 41 mentioned positively for lake access and kayaking.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in available from 2 PM to 9 PM MST.
Check-out
Check-out time not specified.
Stay Limit
- Maximum consecutive stay is unclear
- user reviews suggest potential abuse of stay limits.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limits are unspecified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutEast campground features structured, hard-surfaced roads and pads. West campground is more scattered with grass sites.
Open and Closed SeasonCamping is year-round, but late April and early May highlight reservation systems.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made online via Reserve America.
Walk-in AvailabilityTransitioned to online reservation-only system; no same-day reservations accepted after 5 PM.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are non-refundable after check-in. Cancellation policies prior to check-in are not detailed.
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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The lake’s protected shoreline makes it ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking. A two-mile hike-bike trail offers additional recreational opportunities.
Hiking
The two-mile Lake Ogallala Hike-Bike Trail runs on top of the northern dyke and ends at a diversion dam. It provides scenic views and an easy to moderate walking experience.Fishing
Lake Ogallala is renowned for its rainbow trout fishing. Anglers also catch yellow perch, channel catfish, and an occasional wiper. Improved angler access areas and a fish cleaning station enhance the fishing experience.Swimming
Swimming is allowed in the park lake, although no specific safety measures or designated areas were mentioned.Biking
The Lake Ogallala Hike-Bike Trail offers opportunities for recreational biking with scenic views along the dyke.Boating
Non-motorized watercraft are popular due to the lake's no-wake policy. There are two boat ramps, two docks, and a kayak launch dock for easy access.Wildlife viewing
Bird watching and wildlife viewing are prominent activities at the campground, with opportunities to spot a variety of local species.Winter Activities
Winter activities were not detailed in the source materials.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular due to the lake's calm and protected waters.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire rings available at most sites.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsWindy conditions and unpleasant smells near discharge tubes are mentioned. Some users noted issues with flies and ground mounds.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 90%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 8.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
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
Greater than 10 miles: Emergency services, including hospitals and police.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season coincides with warmer months; specific date ranges are not mentioned.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but no specific details on recycling options or their locations were provided.
Proximity to water featuresDirectly adjacent to Lake Ogallala. West campground features lakeside sites.
Common complaintsComplaints include lack of water hookups at individual sites, fees for showers, and poor customer service during reservation errors.
HostCamp hosts are frequently noted as helpful and friendly across reviews.
Campground Map
1475 Highway 61N, Ogallala, Nebraska, 69153-5930, United States
Driving directionsTake Interstate 80 to the Ogallala Exit #126, then turn north onto Hwy 61 (or Spruce Street in Ogallala). Turn East (right) on Hwy 61 North and follow the road. The Visitor Center will be on the right-hand side of the road. If you are camping at the Lake Ogallala East campground, please check in at the Visitor Center. 1 mile after the Visitor Center is the Kingsley Dam. To get to the Lake Ogallala campgrounds, travel to the north end of Kingsley Dam and take the first right (heading East) after crossing the dam onto the Keystone road. The first right will be a dirt road leading to the Lake Ogallala West campground. You may also check in at the kiosk down this first dirt road.
Access from Interstate 80 is straightforward via paved highways, but there are some dirt roads leading to specific campgrounds. Road conditions appear manageable for most vehicles.Nearby places
Ogallala (approx. 1 mile), Keystone (approx. 5 miles)
Nearby supplies
Less than 1 mile: Fuel and retail supplies available. Greater than 10 miles: Grocery stores and bait/tackle shops.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Lake Ogallala Sra has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mixed, highlighting the campground's cleanliness, scenic beauty, and family-friendly environment but criticizing the booking system, lack of water hookups, and additional costs for showers.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Users praised the campground for its cleanliness, scenic views, spacious sites, and well-maintained facilities. The camp hosts were frequently commended for their helpfulness.
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints included the lack of water hookups, inconvenient check-in procedures, poorly advertised additional costs (e.g., shower tokens, daily park fees), and issues with the reservation...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring shower tokens or quarters, as the showers are not free. Advance reservations are required, and same-day reservations close early. Consider bringing extra drinking water due to the lack of...
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Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are regarded as the best times for camping due to moderate weather conditions. Summer reviews noted high winds, while fall reviews mentioned fewer visitors and discounted rates.
Camper Quotes
1. 'Love this campground! It is my favorite by far. Amenities are good. Clean restrooms.'\n2. 'We stayed at the East Campground. Check-in is at a place on the west side of the lake which is a...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 41 was noted for its good experience and proximity to the lake. Lakeside sites were frequently highlighted for their scenic views.
Accessibility Features
Accessibility for those with disabilities was not explicitly reviewed, though some sites are noted as level and spread out.
Pet-Friendly Features
The campground is described as pet-friendly, though some users noted grassy areas with stickers that could be uncomfortable for pets.
Last updated August 10, 2025