Enders Reservoir State Recreation Area
Rate this placeLast Updated: December 5, 2025
Enders Reservoir State Recreation Area is located in southwestern Nebraska and offers visitors numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation.
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Summary
Some of the best reasons to visit include fishing, boating, camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The reservoir itself is the main attraction and is known for its walleye, crappie, and catfish fishing. The park also has two modern campgrounds, a swimming beach, and picnic areas.
There are several specific points of interest to see in the area, including the Enders Dam, which was built in 1947 for irrigation and flood control. Visitors can also explore the trails and observe the diverse wildlife, such as bald eagles, deer, and coyotes.
Interesting facts about the area include that the reservoir is the second-largest lake in southwestern Nebraska, covering 2,000 acres. It was created by damming the Frenchman River, which flows through the park. The park is also home to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission's Enders Fish Hatchery, where visitors can learn about fish breeding and stocking programs.
The best time of year to visit Enders Reservoir State Recreation Area is from May to October when the weather is mild and the water is ideal for water sports and fishing. However, some visitors also enjoy winter activities like ice fishing and snowshoeing.
In conclusion, Enders Reservoir State Recreation Area is a great place to visit for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park offers a wide range of recreational activities, stunning views, and unique experiences.
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Park & Land Designation Reference
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
Related References
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
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Private Cabins
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Cow Beach
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Church Grove
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Enders Reservoir State Rec Area
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Center Dam
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Area "B"
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