Even if you’re a veteran of Nebraska’s state parks, there are bound to be a few you haven’t yet visited. There’s a good chance that Rockford Lake State Recreation Area is on that list. It’s small, it’s tucked away in Gage County, and it’s full of opportunities to get outside and enjoy Nebraska’s natural beauty.
Rockford State Recreation Area (or Rockford Lake State Recreation Area, depending on who you ask) is located just a short drive southeast of Beatrice.
Nebraska Tourism Commission
Although you couldn’t call Beatrice a “big city” by any means, it seems positively metropolitan when you consider the peace and quiet of this 300-acre recreation area.
Gage County Tourism The swimming area is small, but it’s just the right size for a dip before you spread out a picnic on the grass or on one of the 90 picnic tables. There are also two picnic shelters and 88 grills, all of which are first-come, first-served.
The eponymous 150-acre lake is an outstanding place to spend a day outdoors. There’s one boat dock and one ramp, and all boats are welcome on the lake.
Gage County Tourism
Anglers will love spending all day casting a line into the cool water. If you’re here for fishing, you won’t be disappointed.
Jake Parthemer/Google Reviews The lake is full of common carp, channel catfish, crappie, flathead catfish, bluegill, largemouth bass, and more.
Extending your stay overnight is simple. There are 72 spots in this small, tidy campground: 30 camping pads with 30- and 50-amp electrical hookups, two camping pads with no electric hookups, and 40 primitive sites without electricity.
Gage County Tourism No reservations are taken for the campsites; they’re all first-come, first-served. Potable water and vault toilets are available, but you’ll have to look elsewhere if you’re hoping for any more modern amenities.
Taking a short walk is the perfect way to cap off a day of playing in nature. There’s a one-mile trail here that’s reserved only for walkers - no bikes or horses allowed.
Tyler Klusaw/Google Reviews Stay for an afternoon or stay for a weekend - or more! If you love the rugged peace of nature, Rockford Lake should absolutely be on your must-visit list.
You’ll need a state park pass to visit the park, which can be purchased in advance. There are also fees for camping; get updated prices and other valuable info on the Nebraska State Parks website.
Nebraska Tourism Commission
Gage County Tourism
The swimming area is small, but it’s just the right size for a dip before you spread out a picnic on the grass or on one of the 90 picnic tables. There are also two picnic shelters and 88 grills, all of which are first-come, first-served.
Jake Parthemer/Google Reviews
The lake is full of common carp, channel catfish, crappie, flathead catfish, bluegill, largemouth bass, and more.
No reservations are taken for the campsites; they’re all first-come, first-served. Potable water and vault toilets are available, but you’ll have to look elsewhere if you’re hoping for any more modern amenities.
Tyler Klusaw/Google Reviews
Stay for an afternoon or stay for a weekend - or more! If you love the rugged peace of nature, Rockford Lake should absolutely be on your must-visit list.
Did you know that America’s first Homestead Act claim was laid right here in Nebraska? And you can still visit the property today.
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Address: 29988 S 108 Rd, Beatrice, NE 68310, USA
