Visit Lake Mac This Winter!

Imagine your cozy family getaway this winter in the beautiful Lake McConaughy area! There’s so much to see and do.

EAGLE VIEWING: Eagle viewing is a wonderful activity to share. When ice forms on area lakes and rivers, bald eagles and many waterfowl species concentrate on areas where they can find open water, like this area kept open by the turbulence from the operation of the Kingsley Hydroplant.  The eagles feed on shad, alewife and other small fish, although they’re occasionally seen plucking larger fish like catfish and carp from the water.

The heated eagle viewing facility below Kingsley Dam on Lake Ogallala will be open weekends December 30. 2023 through February 25, 2024 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.  No state park entry permit is required to access the viewing facility, which is provided courtesy of the Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District. Staff is on hand to answer your questions and help spot eagles.

HIKING & BIKING: With over 100 miles of shoreline to explore, Lake McConaughy and Lake Ogallala are peaceful hiking and biking destinations. The Lake Ogallala Hike-Bike Trail is located on the east side of Lake Ogallala inside the Lake Ogallala Modern Campground. The two-mile trail runs on top of the northern dyke that holds Lake Ogallala and ends at the Nebraska Public Power District’s Diversion Dam. Lake Mac’s sandy shores are also great places for fat-tire biking.

Be sure to dress for the weather. Dogs are permitted on a six-foot leash. Park permit needed for all vehicles.

DELICIOUS DINING & LOCAL BREWERY: Keith County’s many independently owned restaurants are waiting for you to visit. From Paxton to Ogallala to the Lake Mac area, you’ll find an amazing experience. Check the list here. In addition to classic burger and steakhouses, ethnic specialties include authentic Mexican, Indian and Chinese cuisine.

Ogallala’s hometown brewery, Second Chapter Brewing, is housed in the historic former Goodall City Library building at 203 West A Street.  This microbrewery/taproom pays homage to the town’s Old West past and its library roots with brews like the Oga-Lager and Witty Librarian.  Charcuterie and pub snacks are available.

Photo: Eric Fowler NEBRASKAland Magazine, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.