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Wagon Train State Recreation Area

Lake Renovations Underway

Wagon Train State Recreation Area lake will be chemically renovated Aug. 10, weather depending, to remove the existing fish population. Activities at the rec area, about 2 miles east of Hickman, will be limited that day.

The rotenone treatment is aimed at eliminating common carp, white perch and gizzard shad, which are detrimental to aquatic habitat and water quality. Because rotenone is a restricted-use pesticide, day-use areas and the swimming beach will be closed during the chemical application, and no fish may be picked up for human consumption.

Target shooting at the adjacent Wagon Train Wildlife Management Area also will be closed during chemical renovation. The campground on the east side of the lake, however, will remain open.

The fish renovation is part of a larger ongoing Aquatic Habitat Project at the lake focused on:

  • restoring sediment basin capacity to improve water quality
  • constructing underwater shoals for improved fish habitat
  • replacing part of the concrete boat ramp and dock; and performing maintenance on existing angler-access structures.

    • Fingerling largemouth bass and bluegill will be stocked this fall. Saugeye, black crappie, channel catfish and muskellunge are planned for future stockings.

    • Biking
    • Boating
    • Camping
    • Fishing
    • Hiking
    • Hunting
    • Picnicking
    • Playground
    • Swimming

    Wagon Train State Recreation Area comprises 746 acres of land and a 315-acre lake two miles east of Hickman. The area offers boating, fishing, picnicking and a swimming beach.

    Attractions

    Fishing

    Anglers at Wagon Train State Recreation Area will find bluegill, channel catfish, crappie, freshwater drum, largemouth bass, muskellunge, redear sunfish, walleye and wiper, among other species. There is a 21-inch minimum limit on black bass. For wiper, there is a daily bag limit of three with no more than one fish 16 inches or greater. This area offers a wheelchair-accessible pier.

    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.

    Boating

    All boats are welcome at Wagon Train, though a 5-mph speed limit is enforced. There is one dock and one ramp.

    Picnicking

    Wagon Train is a very popular day-use spot and offers 125 picnic tables, 109 grills and one picnic shelter.

    Hiking

    The area has one mile of trails for hiking and mountain biking.

    Swimming

    Wagon Train offers one unsupervised swimming beach.

    Camping

    RV and tent camping

    Wagon Train offers 28 camping pads with 20-, 30- and 50-amp electrical hookups and 80 non-pad sites without electricity. Water, primitive restrooms and a dump station are available to campers. All camping is first-come, first-served. No reservations.


    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.

    VIEW ALL PARK FEES

    Contact Information

    Address: Wagon Train SRA | Lancaster County, NE
    Phone: (402) 796-2362

    Email: Send email