Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
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L a k e M c C o n a u g hy : A s a f e r ,
f a m i l y - f r i e n d l y d e s t i n a t i o n
In 2021, Game and Parks and partners in the Keith County area created a safer, family-
friendly environment at lakes McConaughy and Ogallala when it required reservations for
camping during peak season. The new system, largely implemented to combat problems of
overcrowding, marked a monumental shift from prior years.
The new strategy meant visitors could choose from Game and Parks' 1,500 designated sites
— 500 of which are in nine campgrounds, and another 1,000 spots at 17 beach areas along Lake
McConaughy's shoreline. The parks attract hundreds of thousands of visitors each year for its
large, open water and excellent fishery. Since implementation, requests for emergency services
has declined rapidly and visitor satisfaction has improved. Lodging and sales tax receipts for
Keith County increased as well.
In 2022, the agency continued its "Know Before You Go" campaign to spread the message
about the reservations system. Potential visitors also are referred to a website with frequently
asked questions, and links to other privately-owned lodging options available. Messaging
included news media outlets in Wyoming, Nebraska and Colorado.
Beach camp,
Lake McConaughy SRA
