This Little-Known Lake Is Perfect For Easy Fishing, Boating, and Adventuring In Nebraska

North Platte, Nebraska, isn’t exactly known as a bastion of hustle and/or bustle; it is, after all, a town in Nebraska – and things are never terribly busy ’round here. That’s one of many reasons that I absolutely love the Cornhusker State: We get some good quiet even in ‘busy’ places. Things are just a little lower-key here than in larger cities in bigger states, and I couldn’t ask for anything more. It’s wonderful. Take, for example, one of our more than 1,500 lakes: the Lake Maloney State Recreation Area is home to 1,000 acres of sparkling, clear water that makes for a perfect day trip (or longer). It’s beloved amongst locals who know it’s there, but ask anyone from out-of-state or even out-of-county, and there’s a good chance they won’t be at all sure what you’re talking about.

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Some days, it gets just slightly more crowded than others. When it comes to the locals, this lake is well-known and much-loved. Arrive during the week, though, and you might just get it nearly all to yourself. Such is the beauty of being in Nebraska: even at our busiest, we aren't that busy. Love it.

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It's a man-made reservoir completed in 1935, and it's been a staple of outdoorsy wonder ever since. Its various peninsulas and miles of gorgeous, sandy shoreline makes for the perfect beach day right here in Nebraska.

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Nebraska is all too often labeled as "boring" or "flat" when neither of these things could be further from the truth.

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...but come on. How beautiful are these photos? They don't even do Lake Maloney justice, either - and they're lovely. The lake is popular among boaters and kayakers, too, as well as swimmers and campers.

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With spots for tents only to spots that can accommodate an RV, you can do whatever you're feeling like doing right here beside the lake. It really is a wonderful escape, even if just for a few days or so.

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Imagine waking up to the sunrise over the water...

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It's an exquisite place that's sure to amaze, and with plenty to do, it's no wonder why we love it so much. The amenities don't end there, either - you'll have to show up to learn 'em all!

To learn more about Lake Mahoney, be sure to check out the official Lake Mahoney State Recreation Area website for all the most up-to-date news and goings-on. The lake isn’t terribly far from North Platte – about six miles – so if you need a place to stay while you’re here, be sure to check out all the offerings from our friends at Booking.com.

Do you have a favorite lake in Nebraska? Is it popular nation-wide, or just popular among the locals? Let me know!