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Recreational Facilities

Our recreational facilities are open to the public, excluding areas prohibited due to safety or operational reasons. Popular activities include biking, hiking, boating, camping, golfing, bird watching, seasonal hunting and fishing. We partner with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission to operate its parks, recreational and wildlife areas and fisheries. We also manage habitat for threatened and endangered species.

Girl sitting on bank of river with fishing pole

Lake Maloney

Located along Highway 83, five miles south of the Interstate 80 Exit of North Platte, Nebraska, Lake Maloney is used to regulate the flow of water for generating electricity at NPPD's nearby North Platte Hydro facility. The 1,650-surface-acre reservoir is a popular place for fishing, skiing and boating.

Girl riding a jet ski on lake

Sutherland Reservoir

The Sutherland Reservoir is a 3,000-surface-acre lake located three miles south of the Interstate 80 Exit at Sutherland, Nebraska. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission overseas most of the recreation areas at the lake.

Hand holding a fish

Lake Ogallala & Sutherland Canal

Lake Ogallala and the Sutherland Supply Canal are among the top trout fisheries in the state. The lake is formed by the Keystone Dam on the North Platte River. Canal roads can be accessed east from Highway 61 or north from U.S. 30 at Roscoe and Paxton.

Family on a bike ride

Bike & Hike Trails

North Platte's riding and hiking path is located on the south side of town along our North Platte Hydro tailrace canal. The Kearney Canal Trail is a 2.6-mile, 8-foot-wide scenic corridor stretching from Cottonmill Park to the University of Nebraska- Kearney campus.

Stay Safe

  • Swimmers and boaters are prohibited from accessing areas near canals, dams, flow-control devices and posted areas.
  • Orange buoys mark areas restricted to boating. Please observe caution signs and speed limits on the water and wear life jackets while on or near the water at all times.
  • Thin ice may occur during winter on the lakes and canals, especially near the cooling pond for Gerald Gentleman Station at the Sutherland Reservoir. Avoid walking on ice and falling into dangerously cold water.
  • Owners of private land adjacent to NPPD's canals typically restrict access to their property. Seek permission to enter onto private property.