Sherman Reservoir SRA

For Nebraska residents, the name Sherman Reservoir State Recreation Area (SRA) near Loup City evokes images of sun-drenched days on the water, excellent fishing, and open, peaceful landscapes. This central Nebraska gem features a vast 2,845-acre reservoir surrounded by over 4,700 acres of land, making it one of the state’s premier destinations for water-based recreation. Sherman Reservoir is the kind of place where locals find themselves returning season after season, drawn by the quality of the fishing and the generous space for all types of outdoor fun.

The camping facilities at Sherman Reservoir SRA, which include both extensive primitive sites and areas recently upgraded with electricity, are designed to support a self-sufficient outdoor lifestyle. Whether you are bringing a large RV for a week-long fishing expedition or just pitching a tent for a night under the stars, the SRA provides the essential amenities and the stunning natural backdrop that define a memorable Nebraska camping trip. Guests love it for being a "great spot for boating and fishing" and a genuine "hidden gem" in the heart of the state.

### Overview: A Vast Water-Oriented SRA

Sherman Reservoir SRA is managed by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and is a massive, multi-use public area. Unlike small, confined campgrounds, the SRA offers a sprawling experience with various recreational sites dotted around the reservoir's 65 miles of shoreline. While the state manages numerous non-pad, primitive camping sites (reported to be around 360), the most desirable areas offer modern convenience.

The campground areas, particularly along Trail 1 near the dam (including Redwood, West Ridge, etc.), have seen recent upgrades, with sites now featuring electric hookups. For those without a reservation, the traditional SRA approach of first-come, first-served camping is available in the non-pad areas, allowing true explorers to find secluded lakeside spots. Visitors must remember that a valid Nebraska park entry permit is required year-round for all vehicles entering the SRA, which is a separate fee from the camping cost.

### Location and Accessibility

Sherman Reservoir is centrally located in Nebraska, approximately five miles northeast of Loup City. It is highly accessible for residents coming from Grand Island, Lincoln, or Omaha, making it a viable weekend destination for much of the eastern and central parts of the state.

The general address for the park headquarters is:

79025 Sherman Dam Rd #1, Loup City, NE 68853, USA

The park is accessed via Nebraska Highway 92, and the main camping and day-use areas are spread across multiple paved and gravel trails branching off the main road, such as Trail 1 (leading to the main facilities and electric sites) and Trail 2 (leading to the marina). Accessibility for large RVs is generally good on the main paved roads, though travelers should be mindful that many of the primitive sites are simply grassy areas, and a review notes a general lack of trees in most sites, meaning shade can be scarce. The main recreation sites and the coin-operated showerhouse are conveniently grouped near the area headquarters on Trail 1.

### Services Offered

Sherman Reservoir SRA provides a range of services from basic necessities for primitive campers to utility connections for RVers, ensuring a comprehensive outdoor experience.

• Electric Hookups: Recently upgraded sites offer 30-amp and 50-amp electric hookups, a major benefit for RVers (availability is limited and concentrated in specific areas).
• Sanitary Facilities: The park features modern restrooms (flush toilets) and numerous vault toilets scattered throughout the primitive camping areas.
• Showers: A coin-operated showerhouse is available on Trail 1, providing hot showers for all campers.
• Dump Station: A centrally located sanitary dump station is on the premises, typically near the showerhouse/headquarters area, for convenient RV maintenance.
• Water: Potable water hydrants are located intermittently in the campgrounds and picnic areas.
• Concession/Marina: Trade Winds Marina (located on Trail 2) offers a full-service concession, including a full-menu café, groceries, bait, tackle, and sometimes cabin and RV space rentals, supplementing the park's offerings.
• Fishing Facilities: Multiple fish cleaning stations are provided around the lake.

### Features / Highlights

The main attraction of Sherman Reservoir SRA lies in its ample size and the high quality of its aquatic resources and recreational facilities.

• Outstanding Fishing: Sherman Reservoir is known throughout the state for excellent fishing, particularly for walleye, crappie, white bass, and channel catfish. It is frequently stocked and monitored by KDWP, ensuring a good catch rate.
• Boating and Water Sports: All types of boats are permitted on the 2,845-acre lake. The SRA boasts three large boat ramps and boat docks, making it a favorite for power boating, skiing, wakeboarding, and sailing.
• Primitive Lakeside Camping: The abundance of 360 non-pad, primitive camping sites allows campers to truly find their own piece of shoreline, offering a quiet, less-developed camping experience than many state parks.
• Modern Amenities Upgrade: The addition of 30/50 amp electric hookups and the presence of modern restrooms and coin-operated showers (features noted by reviewers) blend a high level of comfort with the natural, wide-open setting.
• Tentrr Sites: The SRA offers unique Tentrr fully equipped canvas safari tents for a ready-to-go glamping-style experience, perfect for those without traditional camping gear.

### Contact Information

For inquiries regarding state park permits, general camping rules, and facility status, contact the park superintendent. For concession-related services like cabin rentals or the marina grill, contact Trade Winds Marina directly.

Address (Park Headquarters):

79025 Sherman Dam Rd #1, Loup City, NE 68853, USA

Phone (Park Superintendent/Office):

** (308) 745-0230**

Trade Winds Marina Phone (Concession/RV Sites/Cabins):

(308) 745-1187 (Reservations for some RV pads and cabins may be handled by the concessionaire)

Nebraska Park Entry Permit:

Required for all vehicles; purchase online or at the park headquarters.

### What is Worth Choosing Sherman Reservoir SRA?

For Nebraska outdoor lovers, Sherman Reservoir SRA is worth choosing because it represents the perfect blend of wide-open spaces, high-quality water recreation, and recent amenity modernization. It is specifically suited for those who prioritize boating and fishing above all else.

The top reason is the sheer scale and quality of the aquatic recreation. With 2,845 acres of water and excellent fishing for popular game species like walleye and crappie, the lake is a consistent draw. The multiple boat ramps and the availability of marina services through Trade Winds make getting out on the water exceptionally easy.

Secondly, the variety and affordability of camping appeal to all budgets. You can choose a highly economical, peaceful primitive site right on the shoreline or opt for the comfort of a recently added 30/50 amp electric site—all while enjoying coin-operated hot showers and modern restrooms. The recent electrical upgrades directly address a common need of the modern traveler.

Ultimately, Sherman Reservoir SRA offers a taste of quintessential Central Nebraska outdoor adventure: wide-open skies, exceptional water quality, abundant recreation, and enough quiet shoreline to make it feel like your own private piece of the plains.