Experience the wonders of the great Cornhusker State from a unique perspective.
Have you ever imagined paddling amidst lush landscapes and pristine waters?
Discover the best places to paddle board in Nebraska with us.
Embark on this exhilarating adventure and immerse yourself in Nebraska’s natural beauty. Are you ready to dive in?
Table of Contents
Map
Where to Paddle Board in Nebraska
Please note: While we strive for accuracy, always verify details before paddling. If you spot an error or if you're a local official wanting to make a correction, please comment below. Thanks!
#1 Branched Oak Lake

- ????️ ️Location Type: Lake
- ???? Access Point: Area 1 Boat Ramp (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm water, slight wind gusts
- Popular Seasons: Summer
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Walleye, catfish, crappie, bass
- ????️ Landmarks & Views: White sand beaches, wooded landscape
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Designated swimming areas, life jackets required
Branched Oak Lake, located near Lincoln, is a popular paddling destination in Nebraska. The lake offers calm waters and scenic views of the surrounding wooded landscape, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
The white sand beaches nearby are perfect for relaxing after a long paddle session, and the lake is also known for its abundant fishing opportunities.
#2 Johnson Lake
- ️????️ Location Type: Lake
- ???? Access Point: Nieden’s Bay Boat Ramp (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm water, occasional wind gusts
- Popular Seasons: Summer
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Perch, catfish, crappie, bass
- ????️ ️Landmarks & Views: Parks, campgrounds, marina
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for boat traffic, obey lake regulations
Johnson Lake, situated near Lexington, is a popular spot for paddle boarding enthusiasts in Nebraska. With calm waters and plenty of recreational activities nearby, it’s a great location for watersports.
This picturesque lake is surrounded by campgrounds and parks, making it ideal for a weekend getaway. Keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife while you paddle around the beautiful shoreline.
#3 Lake MacConaughy

- ????️ Location Type: Lake
- ???? Access Point: Spillway Bay (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Can be choppy, winds vary with weather
- Popular Seasons: Summer
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Pelicans, gulls, terns, walleye, trout
- ????️ ️Landmarks & Views: Kingsley Dam, sandy beaches, sand dunes
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Watch for boat traffic, adhere to water safety regulations
Lake MacConaughy, Nebraska’s largest reservoir, offers endless paddleboarding adventures. Known for its crystal-clear waters, stunning sand dunes, and sandy beaches, it’s the perfect location to experience the beauty of Nebraska.
While the wind conditions can vary, it is still possible to find calm areas along the shoreline for a great paddling experience. Make sure to take in the breathtaking views of Kingsley Dam as you explore this fascinating lake.
#4 Platte River

- ????️ Location Type: River
- ???? Access Point: Schramm Park Access (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Gentle currents, protected from strong winds
- Popular Seasons: Spring to Fall
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Deer, beavers, waterfowl, fish
- ????️ Landmarks & Views: Wooded riverbanks, sandbars
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Be cautious near sandbars, respect private properties
The Platte River, a popular canoeing destination, is also perfect for paddleboarding enthusiasts. This slow-moving river offers a peaceful journey through Nebraska’s natural beauty, making for a relaxing paddle.
With sandbars and wooded riverbanks dotting the river, you’re sure to enjoy a serene paddling experience on the Platte River.
#5 Lake Zorinsky

- ????️ ️Location Type: Lake
- ???? Access Point: Zorinsky Lake Boat Ramp (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm water, occasional wind gusts
- Popular Seasons: Summer
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Ducks, geese, osprey, bass, catfish
- ????️ Landmarks & Views: Serene surroundings, parks, trails
- Safety, Environment and Rules: No-wake zone, life jackets required
Lake Zorinsky, located in Omaha, is a tranquil oasis for paddleboarding enthusiasts. Surrounded by parks and trails, the peaceful lake offers the perfect setting for a serene paddling experience.
With an abundance of wildlife, calm water, and beautiful natural surroundings, Lake Zorinsky is a must-visit for paddleboarders in Nebraska.
#6 Cunningham Lake

- ????️ Location Type: Lake
- ???? Access Point: Glenn Cunningham Lake Boat Ramp (Google Maps)
- ???? Water, Currents & Wind: Calm water, occasional wind gusts
- Popular Seasons: Summer
- ???? Wildlife Encounters: Ducks, geese, fish
- ????️ Landmarks & Views: Park surroundings, walking trails
- Safety, Environment and Rules: Adhere to park regulations, life jackets recommended
Cunningham Lake, a hidden gem in Omaha, provides a serene setting for paddleboarders. Surrounded by parkland and walking trails, this calm lake offers the perfect atmosphere for a peaceful paddling excursion.
Experience the tranquility of nature as you glide across the calm waters, taking in the picturesque views and abundant wildlife that call Cunningham Lake home.
FAQ
Where can you paddle board in Nebraska?
Popular paddle boarding spots in Nebraska include the Lake McConaughy, Branched Oak Lake, and the Platte River.
Do paddle boards need to get registered in Nebraska?
No, Nebraska does not require registration for paddle boards.
When is the best time to paddle board in Nebraska?
The best time to paddle board in Nebraska is during the summer months when water temperatures are warmer.
