- Archery range
- Boating
- Camping
- Fishing
State Recreation Area
5800 W. Sprague Road | Martell, NE 68404
Due to low water levels, all three boat ramps at Bluestem SRA are currently closed. Please check for updates on our closures and safety advisories page.
Located southwest of Lincoln, Bluestem State Recreation Area features 742-acres for picnicking, camping and much more. Anglers especially enjoy Bluestem, which has a 325-acre lake.
Playing on the beach at Bluestem State Recreation Area. Eric Fowler, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Cool off at the swim beach at Bluestem State Recreation Area. Eric Fowler, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
A pontoon boat cruises across the lake at Bluestem State Recreation Area. Eric Fowler, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Riders on horseback cross the dam at Bluestem State Recreation Area. Eric Fowler, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
An archery range gives both new and experienced archers the chance to sharpen their skills.
All types of boating are allowed at Bluestem. The area also has four docks and three boat ramps.
Bluestem State Recreation Area provides great fishing opportunities for largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, walleye and crappies, among others.
Game at Bluestem State Recreation Area includes pheasant, quail, turkey, squirrel, waterfowl and deer on 417 acres of land.
Bluestem has numerous picnic tables and grills for those looking for a spot to grill and relax.
A swimming beach provides guests with a way to cool off during the hot summer months. There are no lifeguards on duty.
Fishing, camping, picnicking and no-wake boating are available at nearby Olive Creek SRA.
Bluestem SRA has 39 Electric Plus campsites (including 3 accessible sites), as well as 47 Basic campsites. The area also offers a showerhouse, drinking water, primitive restrooms, and a dump and fill station.
During peak season, about half of the campsites are reservable up to 180 days in advance of arrival. For first-come, first-serve sites, campers must register their nightly camping fees in a raised, locked box called an Iron Ranger. Self-service envelopes are provided at each station and accept cash or checks 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.
Boating FAQs
Have questions regarding boating? Read answers to questions frequently asked by boaters below.
