Skip to main content

Game and Parks continues management role at Swanson, Red Willow SRAs

Nebraska Game and Parks continues to manage the diverse recreational opportunities available at Red Willow and Swanson Reservoir state recreation areas in the southwest part of the state.  

The recreation facilities are managed for public use and benefit as part of a 25-year management agreement with the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, which owns the land. This agreement was renewed in 2022.

During negotiations of the new agreement, Game and Parks relinquished management responsibility for the small portion of each park that includes the privately-owned concession operations at the two reservoirs. This was a result of the Bureau’s expectations for ongoing concession operations. 

Concession management and administration is now conducted directly by the Bureau of Reclamation. Negotiations between the Bureau and concessionaries do not involve Nebraska Game and Parks.

Management for the remainder of the recreation and wildlife management areas remain the same with Nebraska Game and Parks operating them for Nebraskans and visitors alike. These areas include the public campgrounds and related facilities, boating access, fishery and adjacent wildlife management areas, which provide opportunities for fishing, hunting, boating, hiking, camping, wildlife viewing and other outdoor recreation. 

Recent improvements at the two recreation areas include fish cleaning stations thanks to the reinvestment of user fees and other funding sources, such as the Capital Maintenance Fund and the BOR’s Title 28 program.

Swanson Reservoir SRA, near Trenton, is the largest of four recreation areas in the southwestern part of the state and offers fishing, boating, camping and day-use activities, among others. Red Willow Reservoir SRA, near McCook, offers camping, swimming, an archery range, trails and other day-use opportunities.

Game and Parks recognizes these areas are important to outdoor recreationists and will continue to provide public access and opportunity.

To learn more about the parks, visit OutdoorNebraska.gov.


About Shawna Richter-Ryerson

Shawna Richter-Ryerson is an assistant division administrator for communications at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. She can be contacted at shawna.richter-ryerson@nebraska.gov or 402-471-5565.

Related Articles

Boat ramp improvements made at Merritt Reservoir

Sep 3, 2025

Boat ramp improvements made at Merritt Reservoir

There will be a closure at Beed’s Landing for concrete work; repairs finished at Powder Horn ramp.

Read More
20th Missouri River Outdoor Expo is Sept. 20-21

Sep 3, 2025

20th Missouri River Outdoor Expo is Sept. 20-21

A weekend of family entertainment awaits at the 20th anniversary of the event at Ponca State Park.

Read More
Lewis and Clark SRA’s Weigand Marina to close for construction

Sep 3, 2025

Lewis and Clark SRA’s Weigand Marina to close for construction

Closure beginning Sept. 11 to allow for the start of a multimillion-dollar marina upgrade project.

Read More