Red Willow State Recreation Area
Located in southwestern Nebraska, Red Willow State Recreation Area is a popular roadside attraction that offers scenic views and exciting outdoor activities. Situated near the city of McCook (1400 West 5th Street, McCook, Nebraska), the recreation area is a hidden gem that showcases the natural beauty of the Great Plains. With over 3,900 acres of prairie and woodlands, the area provides ample opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore, hike, and unwind.
The recreation area is nestled along the northern shoreline of Harry Strunk Lake, a 640-acre reservoir that offers excellent fishing and boating opportunities. Visitors can enjoy swimming and sunbathing at the designated beach area or try their hand at catching largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and walleye in the lake's crystal-clear waters. For those who prefer to stay on dry land, the area offers over 15 miles of hiking and biking trails that wind through rolling hills and scenic valleys.
One of the most distinctive features of the Red Willow State Recreation Area is its remarkable diversity of flora and fauna. The area is home to a wide range of plant species, including native grasses, wildflowers, and hardwoods. Visitors may also spot white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and over 200 species of birds that call the area home. For nature enthusiasts, the recreation area provides a unique opportunity to observe and learn about the unique ecosystems of the Great Plains.
In addition to its natural attractions, the recreation area also offers a range of amenities and services for visitors. The area has over 100 campsites with electrical hookups, modern restrooms, and showers. Visitors can also rent cabins and picnic shelters for group events and gatherings. For those who need a break from the sun, the area has a modern visitors' center with educational exhibits and a park office where visitors can obtain information and obtain necessary permits.
The Red Willow State Recreation Area has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. The area was originally operated as a private recreation resort but was later acquired by the state of Nebraska in the 1970s. Today, the area is managed by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, which works to preserve the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of the area for future generations.
For visitors who are interested in exploring the surrounding area, the city of McCook has a range of attractions and amenities to offer. The city has a rich history that dates back to the early days of the railroad, and visitors can explore the McCook Historical Society Museum to learn more about the area's rich heritage. The city also has a range of restaurants and shops, including the iconic Sehnert's Bakery, which has been a local institution since 1909.
Overall, the Red Willow State Recreation Area is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through southwestern Nebraska. With its stunning natural beauty, exciting outdoor activities, and rich history, the area offers something for everyone.
The recreation area is nestled along the northern shoreline of Harry Strunk Lake, a 640-acre reservoir that offers excellent fishing and boating opportunities. Visitors can enjoy swimming and sunbathing at the designated beach area or try their hand at catching largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and walleye in the lake's crystal-clear waters. For those who prefer to stay on dry land, the area offers over 15 miles of hiking and biking trails that wind through rolling hills and scenic valleys.
One of the most distinctive features of the Red Willow State Recreation Area is its remarkable diversity of flora and fauna. The area is home to a wide range of plant species, including native grasses, wildflowers, and hardwoods. Visitors may also spot white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, and over 200 species of birds that call the area home. For nature enthusiasts, the recreation area provides a unique opportunity to observe and learn about the unique ecosystems of the Great Plains.
In addition to its natural attractions, the recreation area also offers a range of amenities and services for visitors. The area has over 100 campsites with electrical hookups, modern restrooms, and showers. Visitors can also rent cabins and picnic shelters for group events and gatherings. For those who need a break from the sun, the area has a modern visitors' center with educational exhibits and a park office where visitors can obtain information and obtain necessary permits.
The Red Willow State Recreation Area has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. The area was originally operated as a private recreation resort but was later acquired by the state of Nebraska in the 1970s. Today, the area is managed by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, which works to preserve the natural beauty and recreational opportunities of the area for future generations.
For visitors who are interested in exploring the surrounding area, the city of McCook has a range of attractions and amenities to offer. The city has a rich history that dates back to the early days of the railroad, and visitors can explore the McCook Historical Society Museum to learn more about the area's rich heritage. The city also has a range of restaurants and shops, including the iconic Sehnert's Bakery, which has been a local institution since 1909.
Overall, the Red Willow State Recreation Area is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through southwestern Nebraska. With its stunning natural beauty, exciting outdoor activities, and rich history, the area offers something for everyone.
