The Best Water sports recreation areas in North Platte, Nebraska

Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area, located in Gering, Nebraska, is a park and tourist attraction offering a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. With 1,094 acres of wilderness to explore, visitors can enjoy interactive displays, interpretive programming, shooting sports, overnight camping, and a vast system of trails. The park is situated high on a rocky escarpment in the Wildcat Hills, providing stunning views of the North Platte River Valley. The Nature Center serves as the park's headquarters and features displays and programs highlighting the region's flora and fauna. The Shooting Sports Complex offers a family-friendly environment for archery, small bore, pellet, shotgun, and rifle ranges. Birdwatchers will appreciate the diverse species that flock to the park, with opportunities to observe them up close at the nature center. Hikers, bikers, and equestrian riders can explore over 3 miles of trails through canyons and rocky bluffs. Wildlife such as bighorn sheep, mule deer, and wild turkey can be spotted in the area, adding to the natural beauty of the park. Camping options include 12 basic sites for primitive campers, with reservations available for half of the campsites. The park also offers event rental spaces at the Nature Center for conferences and weddings. With nearby attractions like Lake Minatare and Bridgeport State Recreation Areas, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities in western Nebraska. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area provides a unique outdoor experience for all.

Lake Maloney State Recreation Area, located at 100 North Maloney Drive in North Platte, Nebraska, is a beautiful campground and park perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Just 6 miles south of North Platte, Lake Maloney offers a variety of activities such as boating, fishing, water sports, camping, and family fun. The 1,000 acre lake provides ample opportunity for wildlife watching, fishing for a variety of species, and wakeboarding. The campground offers shady spots for camping, grilling, and picnicking, as well as a disc golf course for added entertainment. All types of boats are permitted on the lake, including fishing boats, sailboats, paddle boats, and personal watercraft. Anglers will find a variety of fish species in the lake, with a daily bag limit of 10 channel catfish. The park also features two unsupervised swimming beaches for those looking to cool off on a hot day.