Merritt Reservoir

Merritt Reservoir is in the Sandhills of Cherry County, about 25–26 mi southwest of Valentine, NE. The dam impounds the Snake River and Boardman Creek in a narrow valley next to Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest. Covers nearly 3,000 surface acres with ~44 mi of sandy shoreline; max depth ~111 ft (average ~25 ft). Dam built by Bureau of Reclamation in 1964; water and land managed by Nebraska Game & Parks Commission

Features

  • Boating: All motorized and electric boats allowed; 5 ramps (Powder Horn, Main, Cedar Bay, Beed’s Landing, Snake River) and docks. Note: hazards in several arms—speed reduction buoys in place; no water skiing or wake surfing.

  • Fishing: A top-tier fishery stocked with walleye, crappie, muskellunge (record 41 lb, 8 oz in 1992), white bass, yellow perch, and catfish . Two modern fish cleaning stations available.

  • Camping

    • Multiple campgrounds: Cedar Bay (28 20/30A pads), Beed’s Landing, Boardman Creek, Willow Cove, plus ~190 primitive sites (boat‑in and walk‑in).

    • Merritt Trading Post Resort nearby offers cabins, RV hookups, fuel, bait, rentals, and dump station.

  • Hunting & Wildlife: Seasonal upland game (sharp-tailed grouse, prairie grouse), big game (whitetail, mule deer, turkey), waterfowl, plus birdwatching in the Sandhills region

  • Certified International Dark Sky Park: First site in Nebraska designated in 2022 by IDA—200th globally. Rural Sandhills location ensures minimal light pollution.

  • Nebraska Star Party: Hosted each summer for over30 years; attracts amateurs and pros for stargazing, astrophotography, and educational events.

Location

 

Visit

Directions

From Nenzel 16 miles south on 16F. Turn left on Merritt Dam Road, about 15 miles then turn right on NE- 97

88292 State Highway 97, Valentine, NE 69201

For more information, including maps and specific regulations, visit the Nebraska Game and Parks site here!