- Boating
- Camping
- Fishing
- Hunting
- Picnicking
This recreation area provides great opportunities for fishing, floating, kayaking, and primitive camping. Sandy Channel is a popular fishery for largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish and yellow perch. This area, located 3 miles south of Elm Creek, encompasses approximately 180 acres, including 52 acres of water in six lakes. Clear water provides a scenic atmosphere for scuba divers. Recent improvements at Sandy Channel include fishing access, boat ramps, picnic tables, grills, hiking trails, kiosk and handicap accessible latrines.
Attractions
Fishing
Sandy Channel has a series of sandpit lakes that offer anglers a variety of opportunities. Largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish and crappie can be found in all of the pits as well as a variety of other species. Pit #8, the largest pit located on the north and northeast side of the area, may even offer anglers a chance of catching a walleye or even a muskellunge. Bow-fishing and spearfishing opportunities for non-game fish also abound on Sandy Channel.
For more information on fishing opportunities here and at parks across the state, visit the interactive public fishing areas map. This map provides detailed information on available species, regulations, public boat ramps, fish cleaning stations and ADA-accessible boat ramps and docks, among other features in reservoirs, lakes, streams and rivers statewide. Lake contour maps are available for some lakes, as well.
Hunting
Hunting opportunities at Sandy Channel include dove, rabbit and waterfowl on 180 acres of land.
Boating
Electric motor, non-powered boating is allowed.
Picnicking
Improvements include picnic tables and grills for popular campsites and shaded picnic areas.
Camping
Primitive camping
30 non-pad sites without electricity are available for camping.
Fees
A park entry permit is required and may be purchased at statewide Game and Parks offices and permit vendors or in advance of your arrival online.
Nearby attractions
Elm Creek interchange
Sandy Channel is located near the Elm Creek interchange on I-80. Nearby attractions include the Chevyland U.S.A. Auto Museum, Fort Kearny State Historical Park and the Cabela’s flagship store.
Contact Information
Address: Sandy Channel SRA | 1020 V Rd | Kearney, NE 68847-9804
Phone: (308) 865-5305
Email: Send email