Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area

🏆🏆🏆🏆 Tailwater Trout — Cold-water tailrace below Kingsley Dam — one of Nebraska’s only trout fisheries, fed by 48°F water from Lake McConaughy’s depths

Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area sits below Kingsley Dam in the cold-water tailrace of Lake McConaughy — creating one of Nebraska’s only natural trout fisheries! Water released from the bottom of McConaughy emerges at a constant 48°F — cold enough to sustain rainbow and brown trout year-round. This unique cold-water habitat in the middle of the Great Plains attracts anglers from across the region. The town of Ogallala was named for the Oglala Lakota people and served as one of the most notorious cow towns on the Texas Trail — cowboys driving cattle north called it the “Gomorra of the Plains.”

Visitor Information

About Lake Ogallala

Lake Ogallala State Recreation Area sits immediately below the massive Kingsley Dam that creates Lake McConaughy. The cold water discharged from Big Mac’s depths makes Lake Ogallala one of the finest trout fisheries on the Great Plains — rainbow and brown trout thrive in the cold, clear tailwaters. The area is named for the Ogallala Aquifer — the vast underground water source that sustains the Great Plains.

Things to Do

Trophy trout fishing (rainbow and brown trout in the cold tailwaters), camping, wildlife viewing (bald eagles winter here), boating, and using as a base for exploring Lake McConaughy. One of the best trout fisheries in Nebraska.

Insider Tips

Tailwater trophy: The cold water below Kingsley Dam (Lake McConaughy) creates exceptional trout fishing in Lake Ogallala. Pro tip: Rainbow trout exceeding 10 lbs are caught annually — the cold, oxygen-rich water produces fast-growing fish. Bird paradise: The area where cold lake water meets warm river water attracts bald eagles, pelicans, and ospreys year-round.

Best Time to Visit

Year-round: Trout fishing is productive in all seasons. Winter: Best trophy trout — fewer anglers and fish concentrate. Summer: Swimming and camping. Fall: Eagle watching begins.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I catch trout year-round?

Yes — the cold tailwater below Kingsley Dam maintains trout-friendly temperatures (50-60°F) even in summer. This makes Lake Ogallala one of Nebraska’s most consistent trout fisheries. Special regulations may apply — check current Nebraska Game & Parks rules.