Visit US Parks

Box Butte Reservoir State Recreation Area

Box Butte Reservoir State Recreation Area Overview


Box Butte Reservoir State Recreation Area is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Nebraska. Located in the northwestern part of the state, the recreation area covers over 2,000 acres and offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy.

One of the main attractions of Box Butte Reservoir is the water itself. The reservoir is a popular spot for fishing, with a variety of fish species including walleye, catfish, and bass. Boating is also a popular activity, with boat ramps available for visitors to launch their own boats or rent from the marina. Swimming is allowed in designated areas, and there are also several beaches for visitors to enjoy.

In addition to water activities, Box Butte Reservoir State Recreation Area offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. The recreation area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, turkeys, and waterfowl. There are several hiking trails throughout the area, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty, that offer scenic views of the reservoir and surrounding landscape.

For those interested in history, Box Butte Reservoir State Recreation Area offers a chance to learn about the area’s past. The recreation area is located near the site of the Battle of Warbonnet Creek, a significant battle between the U.S. Army and Native American groups in 1876. Visitors can explore the battlefield and learn about the history of the area at the nearby Fort Robinson Museum.

Overall, Box Butte Reservoir State Recreation Area is a great destination for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors in Nebraska. With a variety of activities and attractions, there is something for everyone to discover and enjoy.

Visitor’s Experience


Box Butte Reservoir State Recreation Area is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Nebraska. Families, couples, friends, and solo visitors can all enjoy the beautiful scenery and recreational activities available at this state park.

For families, Box Butte Reservoir offers a variety of activities that are perfect for kids of all ages. The park has a playground, picnic areas, and a swimming beach. Families can also rent boats, kayaks, and paddleboards to explore the reservoir. Fishing is also a popular activity, with the reservoir stocked with a variety of fish species.

Couples looking for a romantic getaway will find plenty to do at Box Butte Reservoir. The park’s secluded campsites offer privacy and stunning views of the reservoir. Couples can also take a romantic stroll along the park’s hiking trails or rent a boat for a sunset cruise.

Friends looking for a fun weekend getaway will find plenty of activities to keep them entertained at Box Butte Reservoir. The park has a disc golf course, horseshoe pits, and volleyball courts. Friends can also rent boats and explore the reservoir together or spend the day fishing.

Solo visitors looking for a peaceful retreat will find Box Butte Reservoir to be the perfect destination. The park’s hiking trails offer solitude and stunning views of the reservoir. Solo visitors can also rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the reservoir at their own pace.

The best times of year to visit Box Butte Reservoir State Recreation Area are in the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. However, summer is also a popular time to visit, especially for families looking to enjoy the park’s swimming beach and water activities.

Overall, Box Butte Reservoir State Recreation Area offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly destination, a romantic getaway, a fun weekend with friends, or a peaceful retreat, this state park has it all.

Tell us, what do you think of this park?

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.