- Biking
- Boating
- Camping
- Fishing
State Recreation Area
7399 S. US HIghway 281 | Grand Island, NE 68803
The boat ramp at Lake No. 1 will reopen by the Labor Day weekend.
The lake’s swimming beach will remain closed for the rest of the season due to ongoing diesel fuel cleanup following the incident in which a semi-truck entered the lake July 31.
Just off Interstate 80 by Grand Island, Mormon Island State Recreation Area is a convenient place for outdoor fun. Mormon Island has accessible fishing piers, modern camping, great fishing, great swim beaches and abundant picnicking opportunities. Mormon Island West has 42 surface acres of water, and the middle island has 19 surface acres of water.
Swinging in the sunshine at the playground. Eric Fowler, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Many people enjoy fishing at Mormon Island SRA. Julie Geiser, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Visitors cool off on a hot day at the swim beach. Eric Fowler, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
The RV campground is just a short walk to the beach. Eric Fowler, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Park visitors enjoy the primitive camping area. Julie Geiser, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Mormon Island hosts a spectacular gathering each spring, as hundreds of thousands of sandhill cranes stop to rest and pursue their courtship rituals. The world’s largest concentration of these magnificent birds draws thousands of visitors to the region every year. Mormon Island lies on the eastern edge of this migration route, where great viewing lies close to the park in surrounding fields.
Arriving in early to mid-February, the numbers peak about mid- to late March. The cranes spend their days feeding and engaging in colorful courtship dances.
After the first of April, the birds start flying to northern breeding grounds and are usually gone by mid-April. A variety of geese, ducks and other waterfowl also come to the area before heading farther north.
Mormon Island State Recreation Area has abundant wildlife and offers good wildlife viewing opportunities all year long, particularly along the Platte River.
All boats are allowed. The lake is a no-wake lake. Boat ramps are available on Lakes 1 and 2.
Fish species include largemouth bass, redear sunfish, black crappie, walleye, channel catfish and bluegill. Lake 1 also has muskellunge. Boat ramps are available on lakes 1 and 2. A handicap accessible fishing dock is available for anglers on Lake 1.
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 Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant boat ramps and docks, among other features in reservoirs, lakes, streams and rivers statewide. Lake contour maps are available for some lakes, as well.
Day use amenities at Mormon Island provide numerous picnic tables, fire rings and standing grills available for use, which makes it a great location for gatherings.
There are four small picnic shelters and one large group picnic pavilion. The large group picnic pavilion seats around 50 guests and is located in the Cedar Campground. All picnic shelters and group pavilion are first-come, first-served and do not provide electricity. Multiple flush restrooms are available near picnic shelters.
Swimming is a popular activity at marked swimming beaches. Shower houses are provided.
Mormon Island SRA is conveniently located by Grand Island, which has many options for modern lodging, dining, shopping and family entertainment.
Located 27 miles west off interstate exit 285 near Gibbon, Windmill State Recreation Area offers family-friendly fishing lakes, a hiking trail, archery range, swimming and kayaking. Campers can enjoy Electric camping and tent sites with modern showers available.
Book a tour at the Crane Trust, located 7 miles west, to view the incredible sandhill crane migration. The center also offers hiking trails, nature exhibits about the nearby Platte River ecosystem, and a gift shop and art gallery.
Mormon Island State Recreation Area offers Electric Plus, Electric and Basic camping. Stays are limited to 14 consecutive days in a 30-day period. Camping amenities include modern restrooms, showers, dump/fill station and laundry.
Half of the camping at Mormon Island offers reservations and the remaining campsites are first-come, first-served. Campers are asked to register or check-in for their reservation at the kiosk at the park entrance. After-hour arrivals or during the off-season, campers register their nightly camping fees in a raised, locked box called an iron ranger, which are generally located near the park entrance or campground area. Self-service envelopes are provided at each iron ranger station (check or cash only).
Park Pricing
A park entry permit is required to visit state parks and may be purchased at the park, statewide Game and Parks offices and permit vendors, or in advance of your arrival online. View those fees, as well as attraction and amenity pricing.
Reservations
Reservations are accepted for cabins, lodge rooms, and group lodges up to one year in advance of the arrival date. Reservations for camping are accepted up to 180 days in advance of arrival date. The Reservation Call Center hours are Monday-Friday 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. (CT) and closed on holidays.
Park Events
Our 76 gorgeous state park and recreations areas host a plethora of events throughout the year. From bird hikes to kayak races, Living History events to family outdoor days, our parks host something fun for every outdoor enthusiast.
