This sad little fire pit was pretty typical of what we saw.
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Lake Maloney State Recreation Area

4.2
·190 reviews·North Platte, United States

A beautiful, spacious lake in rural Nebraska offering great fishing, dog-friendly camping, and a designated swimming area for kids.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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This sad little fire pit was pretty typical of what we saw.

Lake Maloney State Recreation Area

Best Time

Summer mornings

Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A beautiful, spacious lake in rural Nebraska offering great fishing, dog-friendly camping, and a designated swimming area for kids.

4.2
(190 reviews)

"This is a fantastic place. I live close by, and I'm there all the time, day, night, on/off season."

Vertical photo
TIP

Confirm Camping Costs

Check tent site, electric hookup, and out-of-state vehicle pass fees. Costs can add up! :moneybag:

Enjoy the Fishing

Great fishing opportunities reported by visitors. Bring your gear for a relaxing day on the water. :fishing_pole:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lake Maloney

Lake Maloney

Central lake area

A beautiful, spacious lake perfect for fishing, swimming, and enjoying the water. Ideal for a summer getaway.

Lakeside Camping

Lakeside Camping

Campground areas

Enjoy spacious, dog-friendly camping spots right by the water. Perfect for a relaxing outdoor experience.

Designated Swimming Area

Designated Swimming Area

South end of the lake

A safe, marked-off zone for children to swim and play. Great for families with young kids.

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Planning Your Visit

Camping Fees & Permits

Be aware of camping fees, which can include tent site costs, electric hookups, and out-of-state vehicle permits. Confirm pricing beforehand to avoid surprises.

Gate Access & Hours

While some online posts might be misleading, Lake Maloney is generally accessible. Confirm current gate hours and any seasonal access information before your visit.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekends
Why
Lively atmosphere, happy campers
Crowd
High
When
Off-season
Why
Peaceful and quiet
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Confirm Camping Costs

Check tent site, electric hookup, and out-of-state vehicle pass fees. Costs can add up! :moneybag:

Enjoy the Fishing

Great fishing opportunities reported by visitors. Bring your gear for a relaxing day on the water. :fishing_pole:

Family-Friendly Swimming

A marked swimming area is perfect for kids to safely enjoy the lake. :child:

Dog-Friendly Environment

Bring your furry friends along! The campground is welcoming to dogs. :dog:

Tips

from all over the internet

Confirm Camping Costs

Check tent site, electric hookup, and out-of-state vehicle pass fees. Costs can add up! :moneybag:

Enjoy the Fishing

Great fishing opportunities reported by visitors. Bring your gear for a relaxing day on the water. :fishing_pole:

Family-Friendly Swimming

A marked swimming area is perfect for kids to safely enjoy the lake. :child:

Dog-Friendly Environment

Bring your furry friends along! The campground is welcoming to dogs. :dog:

All-Season Access

The area is enjoyable year-round, from busy summer days to quiet off-season visits. :calendar:

What Travellers Say

4.2
(190 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Lake Maloney State Recreation Area is praised as a fantastic place with a beautiful, big lake perfect for fishing and family fun. Visitors appreciate the spacious, dog-friendly campgrounds and the designated swimming area for kids. While generally well-regarded, some campers note that fees, especially for out-of-state visitors, can be a bit higher than expected.

"The post about the gate being locked and a disaster is fiction. This is a fantastic place. I live close by, and I'm there all the time, day, night, on/off season. And no one would lie to anyone about anything to do with it on the phone... read all the reviews and make your own determination."

itsasham90

"The post about the gate being locked and a disaster is fiction. This is a fantastic place. I live close by, and I'm there all the time, day, night, on/off season."

Brooks

"Didn't see online about car permits. Thought I could pay 14 for a tent site. Found electric only, 30 plus 14 for out of state car pass. $44. Total. A little expensive."

Tom Ament

What People Like

Beautiful big lake
Great fishing
Spacious, dog-friendly camping

What People Dislike

Camping fees can be high

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Lake Maloney State Recreation Area is located in rural Nebraska. While specific directions can vary, it's generally accessible by car. Use GPS navigation and be prepared for rural roads. Reddit

Yes, it's a lovely lakeside campground in rural Nebraska. Most visitors find it straightforward to locate, especially if using a reliable navigation app. Reddit

Driving is the most common and practical way to reach Lake Maloney, allowing you to bring camping gear and explore the surrounding area. Reddit

Public transport options are very limited for rural areas like Lake Maloney. Driving is highly recommended for accessibility. Reddit

Roads leading to and around Lake Maloney are generally well-maintained, but it's always a good idea to check local road conditions, especially during inclement weather. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While entry to the recreation area itself might not require a specific permit, camping sites do have fees. Out-of-state vehicle passes are also required for non-residents. Reddit

Camping fees can vary. Expect to pay for tent sites, and potentially more for electric hookups. An out-of-state vehicle pass is an additional cost for non-residents. Reddit

It's advisable to check the official website or call ahead to confirm if on-site payment is available for camping. Some areas might require advance booking or have specific check-in procedures. Reddit

Yes, there are typically tent sites and sites with electric hookups available. Confirm availability and amenities when booking. Reddit

The recreation area is generally accessible year-round, but specific gate hours for camping or facilities might vary seasonally. It's best to check official park information. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy fishing, swimming in the designated area, boating (if applicable), and relaxing by the lake. It's a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Reddit

Yes, visitors report great fishing opportunities at Lake Maloney. It's a popular spot for anglers. Reddit

Absolutely! There's a nice, marked-off swimming area specifically for children, making it a family-friendly destination. Reddit

Yes, Lake Maloney is a dog-friendly location, so you can bring your pets along for the outdoor fun. Reddit

The camping spots are described as spacious and located by the lake, offering a pleasant environment for campers. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Lake Maloney is a natural recreation area, and typically does not have on-site restaurants or extensive food services. It's recommended to bring your own food and supplies. Reddit

Dining options will likely be in nearby towns. Plan to pack a picnic or grocery items for your stay, as amenities are limited within the recreation area itself. Reddit

Campfires are usually permitted in designated fire rings at campsites, but always check for any current fire restrictions or burn bans before lighting one. Reddit

Non-perishable items, pre-prepared meals, and ingredients for grilling or campfire cooking are ideal. Don't forget snacks and plenty of water! Reddit

Grocery stores are likely to be in the nearest towns. It's best to stock up before you arrive at the recreation area. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture stunning shots of the lake at sunrise or sunset, the spacious campgrounds, and families enjoying the water. The natural beauty offers many picturesque moments. Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer colors. Golden hour is particularly beautiful over the lake. Reddit

The shoreline offers great perspectives of the lake. Explore different areas of the campground and lakefront for unique angles. Reddit

A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is useful for capturing both wide lake views and wildlife. A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes. Reddit

Drone usage regulations can vary by state park. It's essential to check the official rules and regulations for Lake Maloney State Recreation Area regarding drone operation before flying. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lake Maloney is a fantastic spot for families! The designated swimming area is a huge win, ensuring kids have a safe place to enjoy the water. The spacious campgrounds mean there's plenty of room for families to spread out and relax. Reddit

Remember to factor in camping fees, including potential charges for electric hookups and out-of-state vehicle passes, when budgeting for your trip. Packing plenty of snacks and drinks is also key, as dining options are limited. The dog-friendly aspect means the whole family, including furry members, can enjoy the outing. Reddit

🎣 Anglers and Fishermen

If fishing is your passion, Lake Maloney is a destination worth considering. Visitors consistently praise the great fishing opportunities available at the lake. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day by the water or aiming for a good catch, the lake is known to be productive. Reddit

Ensure you have the necessary fishing licenses and gear. While the reviews don't specify types of fish, the general positive feedback suggests a healthy aquatic population. The scenic surroundings make for an even more enjoyable fishing experience. Reddit

🐶 Pet Owners

Lake Maloney welcomes your four-legged companions! The campground is noted as being dog-friendly, allowing you to bring your pets along for your outdoor adventure. This makes it easier for pet owners to enjoy a camping trip without leaving their furry friends behind. Reddit

Be sure to follow any park-specific rules regarding pets, such as keeping them on a leash and cleaning up after them. The natural setting provides a great environment for dogs to explore and enjoy the outdoors with their owners. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Camping at Lake Maloney

Lake Maloney State Recreation Area offers a lovely lakeside camping experience. Visitors have noted spacious camping spots that are also dog-friendly, making it a great option for those traveling with pets. The proximity to the water is a major draw, allowing campers to wake up to scenic views and easy access to the lake for various activities. Reddit

When planning your camping trip, be mindful of the fees. These can include the cost for the tent site itself, and potentially additional charges for electric hookups if you require them. For those visiting from out of state, an out-of-state vehicle pass is also a necessary expense. It's wise to confirm all pricing details in advance to avoid any surprises upon arrival. Reddit

While the area is generally accessible, it's always a good idea to check for any seasonal access changes or specific gate hours. The overall sentiment from visitors is positive, highlighting the enjoyment of the natural surroundings and the peaceful atmosphere, especially during off-peak times. Reddit

Activities and Recreation

The main attraction at Lake Maloney is, of course, the beautiful, big lake itself. It provides ample opportunities for a variety of water-based activities. Fishing is frequently mentioned as a highlight, with many visitors reporting successful catches and enjoyable angling experiences. Reddit

For families, the marked-off swimming area is a significant plus, offering a safe and designated space for children to splash and play in the water. This feature makes Lake Maloney a particularly attractive destination for families looking for a fun summer outing. Beyond swimming and fishing, the general ambiance of the lake encourages relaxation and enjoyment of the outdoors. Reddit

While not explicitly detailed in all reviews, the spaciousness of the area suggests potential for other activities like picnicking, leisurely walks along the shore, or simply enjoying the natural scenery. The dog-friendly nature of the campground also means that pets can partake in the outdoor fun. Reddit

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