Most people know Walgren Lake, just outside of Hay Springs in northwestern Nebraska, as the home of Nebraska’s one and only lake monster. But there’s much more to it than this beloved legend. Walgren Lake State Recreational Area is a great place to spend a peaceful day – or even a whole weekend.
Walgren Lake State Recreation Area is located 2.5 miles east of Hay Springs in Sheridan County.
Google Maps The recreation area consists of 80 acres of land and a 50-acre lake. Located right in the middle of the prairie, this lovely lake is surrounded by mature cottonwood trees.
The lake is known for its quiet beauty.
NE Game and Parks Miles away from any densely populated area, Walgren lake is so serene that you might have a hard time heading back to civilization after your time here.
This is a popular spot for anglers and boaters.
Roadtrippers Boats are allowed up to 5 MPH, and the fishing is fantastic. You probably won’t catch a lake monster, but you can look forward to snagging some largemouth bass, yellow perch, bluegill, and northern pike walleyes.
The recreation area is a great place for families.
NE Game and Parks If you’re in the mood for a family get-together, the lovely stone picnic shelter offers a nice retreat from the sun. Kids can enjoy “vintage” play equipment, and there are several grills distributed around the recreation area. Picnic tables also dot the grounds, so there’s always a place to have a seat and rest for a bit.
The accessible pier allows everyone to go fishing, regardless of mobility level.
NE Game and Parks The wooden fishing pier accommodates wheelchairs easily. It’s a beautiful vantage point from which to view the lake; even if you aren’t fishing, this is a gorgeous view.
But the best thing about Walgren Lake may be the camping.
NE Game and Parks There’s only primitive camping at the 40 campsites at Walgren Lake - no electricity and only vault toilets with no plumbing (but there is access to drinking water). This is roughing it for most of us, but it’s totally worth it. The sunset across the water will take your breath away. The unfettered view of the stars in the dark sky will have you leaving the tent to sleep out in the open air so you can watch the sky.
Google Maps
The recreation area consists of 80 acres of land and a 50-acre lake. Located right in the middle of the prairie, this lovely lake is surrounded by mature cottonwood trees.
NE Game and Parks
Miles away from any densely populated area, Walgren lake is so serene that you might have a hard time heading back to civilization after your time here.
Roadtrippers
Boats are allowed up to 5 MPH, and the fishing is fantastic. You probably won’t catch a lake monster, but you can look forward to snagging some largemouth bass, yellow perch, bluegill, and northern pike walleyes.
If you’re in the mood for a family get-together, the lovely stone picnic shelter offers a nice retreat from the sun. Kids can enjoy “vintage” play equipment, and there are several grills distributed around the recreation area. Picnic tables also dot the grounds, so there’s always a place to have a seat and rest for a bit.
The wooden fishing pier accommodates wheelchairs easily. It’s a beautiful vantage point from which to view the lake; even if you aren’t fishing, this is a gorgeous view.
There’s only primitive camping at the 40 campsites at Walgren Lake - no electricity and only vault toilets with no plumbing (but there is access to drinking water). This is roughing it for most of us, but it’s totally worth it. The sunset across the water will take your breath away. The unfettered view of the stars in the dark sky will have you leaving the tent to sleep out in the open air so you can watch the sky.
This video of a fishing trip at Walgren Lake shows just how peaceful the area is. (There is some significant wind noise in the video; we suggest turning your speakers off.) Be aware that the water level can fluctuate depending on precipitation, and the lake’s vegetation gets very unruly in the late summer.
The location is pack-in, pack-out as there is no trash service to the recreation area. Please be respectful of this beautiful place and the other people who come here by keeping it clean and quiet.
Is Walgren Lake a little out of your way? Here are some of our other favorite lakes in Nebraska.
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