Summary
Nestled in the heart of Nebraska's scenic Sandhills region, this reservoir and surrounding area provide a serene and picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts. Here is a summary of the key points regarding Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area:
Reasons to Visit:
1. Water Recreation: Sutherland Reservoir is a popular destination for water-based activities such as boating, sailing, water skiing, and fishing. The reservoir is known for its excellent fishing opportunities, with a variety of species including walleye, crappie, catfish, and white bass.
2. Camping and Picnicking: The recreation area offers multiple campgrounds and picnic areas with beautiful lakeside views. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of nature while camping, picnicking, or participating in various outdoor games and activities.
3. Hiking and Wildlife Viewing: The park features several nature trails that wind through the scenic Sandhills landscape, providing opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and bird-watching. These trails offer a chance to spot a diverse range of wildlife, including deer, waterfowl, and various bird species.
4. Hunting: During designated seasons, Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area is open to hunting for species such as deer, turkey, pheasant, and waterfowl. Hunting enthusiasts can enjoy the abundance of game in the surrounding area.
Points of Interest:
1. Lake Ogallala: Located adjacent to the recreation area, Lake Ogallala offers additional recreational opportunities, including boating, water skiing, and fishing. It is also a popular spot for birdwatching and scenic walks along the lake's shoreline.
2. Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Visitor Center: Situated near the recreation area, the visitor center provides information about the Sandhills region, the park's wildlife, and its recreational opportunities. It offers exhibits, interactive displays, and educational programs for visitors of all ages.
Interesting Facts:
1. Sutherland Reservoir, constructed in 1941, was initially established for irrigation purposes but has since become a popular recreation spot.
2. The reservoir covers approximately 3,017 acres and has a shoreline of about 35 miles, providing ample space for various activities and enjoying the scenic beauty of the surroundings.
3. The Sandhills region, where the recreation area is located, is the largest area of stabilized sand dunes in the Western Hemisphere and is home to unique plant and animal species.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area largely depends on personal preferences and the desired activities. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife viewing. Summer is ideal for water-based activities and camping. Anglers may find fishing at its peak during the spring and fall seasons when the water temperature is favorable for various fish species.
While this summary provides a general overview, it is always recommended to verify the details and check for any updates or specific regulations by referring to official Nebraska Game and Parks Commission sources or relevant tourism websites.
Weather Forecast
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
East Sutherland Lake
West Hershey WMA
East Hershey Lake
North Platte River (North River WMA)
Birdwood Lake