Lake McConaughy, behind Kingsley Dam on the North Platte River north of Ogallala, is Nebraska's largest reservoir: about 22 miles long and 4 miles wide, roughly 30,000 to 35,000 surface acres when full and up to 142 feet deep near the dam. It is known for white sand beaches, walleye, wipers and white bass, and sailing. Nebraska Game and Parks runs seven campgrounds: Little Thunder (8 full-hookup, 34 electric), Lone Eagle (84 full-hookup), Cedar View (85 electric, 17 basic), Martin Bay (40), Sandy Beach (16), Spring Park (14) and Otter Creek (10), plus more than 950 beach sites along Shoreline Road. Campgrounds can be reserved 180 days ahead and beach sites 30 days ahead; reservations are required in peak season (late May to mid-September). Lake McConaughy has its own fee schedule, higher Thursday through Saturday, and alcohol is prohibited. A park entry permit is required. The Visitor and Water Interpretive Center, a quarter mile south of the dam on NE 61, has aquariums, exhibits and the park office. In 2026 drought dropped the lake below 30 percent of capacity and closed all public boat ramps; private launches remained, so call (308) 284-8800 before you go.