Loading trail…
Free — you'll pick up right here.
Save this plan
Sign up to save your own editable copy — you'll pick up right here.
NE
No conditions check on file for this trail yet — always verify current conditions before you go.
Why you'll love it
Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest
AI-suggested draft · review before you go
We don't have curated regulation data for NE yet. Check Nebraska Game & Parks for current rules before fishing.
See full state regulationsLocated south of Nenzel in Cherry County, this 116,000-acre national forest is a fantastic representation of the unique Nebraska Sandhills prairie ecosystem. Popular uses of the forest include hunting, fishing, horseback riding, camping and bird watching. There is one small campground located on the southwestern edge of the forest. Steer Creek Campground has 23 campsites, 8 horse corrals, potable water, and the 1-mile Blue Jay hiking trail.The Niobrara River Canoe Launch day use site on the Niobrara River for launching small water craft. Fishing is available in the nearby Merritt Reservoir. The Lord Lakes wetland complex has been recognized for its outstanding fishing.
Lord Lakes
~5 min drive
A worthwhile stop near NE.
Merritt Reservoir
~12 min drive
Moderate
Swanson Swamp
~24 min drive
A worthwhile stop near NE.
Pelican Lake at Valentine National Wildlife Refuge
~38 min drive
Moderate
Medicine Lake
~34 min drive
A worthwhile stop near NE.
Niobrara River at Valentine
~45 min drive
Moderate
Medicine Lake
~35 min drive
A worthwhile stop near NE.
Niobrara River at Smith Falls
~1h 3m drive
Moderate
Cody Lake
~37 min drive
A worthwhile stop near NE.
Cedar Lake
~38 min drive
A worthwhile stop near NE.
Also worth it near here