OutdoorNebraska.gov | 87
O
ne of the state's premier fishing lakes, Merrit
Reservoir SRA is located on the edge of the
Sandhills 26 miles southwest of Valentine. It
covers 9,053 acres, including a 2,906-acre lake.
Lined with white-sand beaches, this large lake
is popular with water sports enthusiasts and sun
seekers. Facilities include: Electric Plus, Electric
and Basic campsites, dump-and-fill station,
coin-operated showers, drinking water, picnic
tables, shelters, primitive restrooms, five boat
ramps, fire grates and fish-cleaning stations. A
concession has cabins and rental boats. Hunting
is available in season on the lake, the surrounding
Merritt Reservoir WMA and the adjacent Samuel
McKelvie National Forest.
STARGAZING
Renown for its Sandhills location providing
spectacular astronomical views, Merritt Reservoir
State Recreation Area (SRA) is the perfect
stargazing destination. It is the first Nebraska site
certified by the International Dark Sky Association.
Merritt SRA has hosted the annual Nebraska
Star Party each summer for three decades, when
professional and amateur astronomers converge
to take advantage of a sky free of light pollution.
FISHING
Merritt Reservoir is among Nebraska's premier
fishing spots for walleye, channel catfish,
largemouth and smallmouth bass, northern pike
and a variety of panfish, and is the state's top
spot for trophy muskie. Opportunities also exist
in the tailwaters below the dam for brown and
rainbow trout. The Valentine National Wildlife
Refuge is nearby and provides excellent fishing
for largemouth bass, northern pike and panfish.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Phone: 402-376-3320
Email: ngpc.merritt@nebraska.gov
Note: Due to the fluctuating water levels of
irrigation reservoirs, some boat ramps may not
be available throughout the year. For up to date
conditions, call the park office.
MERRITT RESERVOIR STATE RECREATION AREA
