- Archery range
- Boating
- Camping
- Fishing
- Food service
State Recreation Area
72718 Trail 2 | McCook, NE 69001-9801
Some of the finest fishing and hunting in the state are found at Red Willow Reservoir SRA, and the area has excellent facilities for camping and water-oriented recreation. Red Willow Reservoir SRA offers 4,320 acres of land around a 1,628-acre lake. Camping, swimming, picnicking, and water recreation are very popular at Red Willow.
Spend a day on the water at Red Willow Reservoir. Julie Geiser, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Camping in the shade by the lake. Julie Geiser, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
From boating, fishing and the popular swim beach, Red Willow is a great summer location. Julie Geiser, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
A wide variety of fish species can be found at Red Willow Reservoir, making it a perfect destination for avid anglers and those picking up a fishing rod for the first time. Julie Geiser, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
After a day of play, relax and enjoy a breathtaking sunset. Julie Geiser, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
A 20-target archery range is adjacent to the Willow View campground.
All boats allowed. Ramps are located at Spring Creek, Willow View and Red Willow areas.
Species include common carp, channel catfish, crappie, flathead catfish, largemouth bass, northern pike, smallmouth bass, walleye, white bass and wiper. Fish-cleaning stations are located at the Spring Creek area.
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.
The area offers 2 miles of mowed hike/bike trails.
Pheasant, rabbit and deer hunters enjoy Red Willow’s tall native grasses, brushy canyons, and shrub and tree plantings for wildlife. The area has good populations of pheasants and both whitetail and mule deer. Pheasant hunters will also put up an occasional covey of quail, and cottontails are plentiful in the draws and plum thickets.
Day-use picnic facilities include 13 shelters, 130 picnic tables and 110 grills.
A public swim beach is available for family recreation. Showers are located at Willow View Campground.
Other Southwest Reservoirs include Swanson, Enders and Medicine Creek, which all provide great opportunities for fishing, camping, boating, swimming and family recreation.
McCook, Nebraska offers opportunities for modern lodging, dining and shopping.
Red Willow Reservoir SRA offers campers Electric Plus, Electric, Basic and Primitive campsites. There are 48 camping pads with 30- and 50-amp electrical hookups, with access to showers and a dump and fill station. Willow View Campground also offers a panoramic view of the lake.
Red Willow offers numerous Basic and Primitive camping for those that don’t need electricity or modern facilities.
All camping is first-come, first-served and campers register their nightly camping fees in a raised, locked box called an iron ranger. Self-service envelopes are provided at each iron ranger station. Check or cash only. Iron rangers are generally located near the park entrance or in the campground area. On-site camping informational signs are provided to help guide campers with the self-registration process.
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.
