Summer is definitely flying by, but you can still catch plenty of time in the sun. Did you know that Nebraska’s lakes are known for their clear, clean water? Anglers are often able to spot fish under the surface before they even cast, and swimmers who put on goggles can see all kinds of fantastic underwater sights. We may not have the ultra-blue crystal clear waters of the tropics, but we do have lots of places to swim in clear, refreshing water. There are even more out there than these six, which are listed here in no particular order.
- Sandy Channel State Recreation Area, near Elm Creek
Submitted by Logan Jackson Sandy Channel is known for having some of the clearest water in the state. It’s so clear that scuba divers frequently dive the lakes. Although the area is best known for its excellent fishing, the addition of a swimming beach has made the recreation area a great place to take a dip.
- Swanson Reservoir State Recreation Area, near Trenton
NE Game and Parks Swanson is a hugely popular summer destination, and the clear water at the swimming beach will make you want to jump in right away.
- Calamus Reservoir, near Burwell
NE Game and Parks This state-wide favorite recreation spot draws anglers, boaters, hikers, campers and, of course, swimmers. The swimming beach offers the perfect refuge from the summer heat.
- Lake McConaughy, near Ogallala
flickr/vicki watkins This is hands-down Nebraska’s most popular water destination. The massive Lake Mac offers all sorts of water activities, and the white sandy beaches are perfect for lying out in the sun.
- Long Pine Creek, near Long Pine
flickr/Lindsy Carranza This spot is more about wading, splashing, and floating than swimming, but its water is so cool and crystal clear that you won’t mind. Rent a tube and float along…and maybe hop off every now and then to enjoy splashing through the lovely water.
- Enders Reservoir, near Enders
YouTube/Chuck Bartholomew Enders is a little more wild than the other reservoir recreation areas nearby; it hasn’t been as built up and you might find there’s a little less traffic here. There is one swimming beach where you’ll find beautiful clear water to play in.
Keep in mind that all of these bodies of water are subject to fluctuating water levels. When in doubt, find the contact phone number for the place you want to go on the NE Game and Parks site and ask about the water level before you make the trip.
Submitted by Logan Jackson
Sandy Channel is known for having some of the clearest water in the state. It’s so clear that scuba divers frequently dive the lakes. Although the area is best known for its excellent fishing, the addition of a swimming beach has made the recreation area a great place to take a dip.
NE Game and Parks
Swanson is a hugely popular summer destination, and the clear water at the swimming beach will make you want to jump in right away.
This state-wide favorite recreation spot draws anglers, boaters, hikers, campers and, of course, swimmers. The swimming beach offers the perfect refuge from the summer heat.
flickr/vicki watkins
This is hands-down Nebraska’s most popular water destination. The massive Lake Mac offers all sorts of water activities, and the white sandy beaches are perfect for lying out in the sun.
flickr/Lindsy Carranza
This spot is more about wading, splashing, and floating than swimming, but its water is so cool and crystal clear that you won’t mind. Rent a tube and float along…and maybe hop off every now and then to enjoy splashing through the lovely water.
YouTube/Chuck Bartholomew
Enders is a little more wild than the other reservoir recreation areas nearby; it hasn’t been as built up and you might find there’s a little less traffic here. There is one swimming beach where you’ll find beautiful clear water to play in.
Want even more water fun? See some of Nebraska’s most popular fishing spots.
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