Olive Creek Dam-Site 2 Park

For Nebraskans seeking a peaceful and accessible outdoor retreat, Olive Creek Dam-Site 2 Park offers a prime location for relaxation, fishing, and connecting with nature. Situated within the Olive Creek State Recreation Area, this park provides a more rustic camping experience, emphasizing natural beauty and recreational opportunities over extensive modern amenities. It's a beloved spot for those who appreciate simplicity and the chance to enjoy Nebraska's landscapes without venturing too far from home.

Olive Creek State Recreation Area encompasses 612 acres of land and water, with a 175-acre lake at its heart. This lake, formed by Olive Creek Dam-Site 2, is a key feature, known for supporting a variety of fish species, including a "decent population of saugeye," as noted by local anglers. While some visitors have observed lower water levels at times, the fishing remains a consistent draw. The park is managed by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, which works to maintain the area for public enjoyment.

The camping at Olive Creek Dam-Site 2 Park is primarily primitive, offering a genuine back-to-basics experience. This means campers should be prepared for a quiet, often secluded environment where the sounds of nature prevail. It's an ideal choice for those who want to disconnect and unwind, whether for a day of fishing, a weekend camping trip, or a small outdoor gathering. Despite its rustic nature, the park generally maintains a clean and kept-up appearance, allowing visitors to fully appreciate its natural setting.

Olive Creek Dam-Site 2 Park is conveniently located at 24100 SW 100th St, Hallam, NE 68368, USA. This address places it just east of Kramer, Nebraska, and a short distance north of the small town of Hallam, in rural Lancaster County. Its proximity to Lincoln, the state capital, is a significant advantage for many Nebraskans. The park is approximately 20-30 minutes southwest of Lincoln, making it an easily accessible option for a quick day trip or a spontaneous overnight camping adventure.

The accessibility of Olive Creek Dam-Site 2 Park is one of its key appeals. For residents of Lincoln and the surrounding communities, the short drive means less time on the road and more time enjoying the outdoors. This makes it particularly suitable for weekend escapes, where convenience is often a priority. The park's roads are generally navigable, leading to the various areas including the lake, camping sites, and picnic spots.

While the park offers a sense of being "away from it all," its relatively close proximity to urban centers ensures that essential supplies are never too far away. This balance of natural seclusion and practical accessibility makes Olive Creek Dam-Site 2 Park a practical and appealing choice for Nebraskans looking to enjoy fishing, camping, and other outdoor activities without embarking on a lengthy journey.

Olive Creek Dam-Site 2 Park, as part of the Nebraska State Recreation Area system, offers essential services designed to support a primitive camping and day-use experience. While it doesn't boast extensive modern amenities, it provides the fundamental necessities for an enjoyable outdoor stay.

• Primitive Campsites: The park offers approximately 50 non-pad sites without electricity. These are scattered throughout the area, providing a rustic camping experience. Campers should be prepared for tent camping or self-contained RVs, as these sites do not offer electric, water, or sewer hookups. All campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Vault Restrooms: For sanitation, the park provides vault restrooms. While not flush toilets, these facilities are available and are maintained by the park staff. Campers should be prepared for a more basic restroom experience.
• Potable Water: Access to potable water is available within the recreation area at designated spigots. Campers should bring their own containers to transport water to their campsites for drinking, cooking, and other uses.
• Boat Ramps and Docks: For those looking to get on the water, the park features one boat ramp and two docks. This allows for easy launching of boats, canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards.
• Fish Cleaning Station: Anglers will appreciate the dedicated fish cleaning station, making it convenient to prepare their catch after a successful day on the lake.
• Picnic Tables and Grills: Throughout the wider recreation area, there are 22 picnic tables and 24 grills, providing ample space for day-use visitors and campers to enjoy outdoor meals and barbecues.
• "Iron Ranger" Self-Service Payment: Camping fees are collected via a self-service "Iron Ranger" system. Campers are responsible for registering their nightly fees using provided envelopes and placing them in the locked box.
• Nebraska State Park Permit Required: Entry into Olive Creek State Recreation Area requires a valid Nebraska State Park Permit. This permit can be purchased annually or as a daily pass and is necessary for all vehicles entering the park.

Olive Creek Dam-Site 2 Park and its surrounding State Recreation Area offer several compelling features and highlights that draw in outdoor enthusiasts from across Nebraska.

• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: The 175-acre Olive Creek Lake is a primary draw, known for its "decent population of saugeye," as well as other species like largemouth bass, bluegill, black crappie, and channel catfish. The lake has benefited from a 2001 Aquatic Habitat Program project, improving water quality and fish populations. "Easy access to fishing around the lake" is a consistent highlight for visitors.
• Boating with a Calm Atmosphere: The lake is open to all types of boats, but maintains a strict 5 mph (no wake) speed limit. This makes it particularly ideal for paddle sports like kayaking and canoeing, as well as electric-motor boating, ensuring a peaceful experience on the water without the disturbance of high-speed crafts.
• Primitive Camping Experience: For those who truly enjoy getting away from modern conveniences, the park's 50 non-electric, non-pad sites provide an authentic primitive camping experience. This allows for a deeper connection with nature and a quieter environment.
• Hunting Opportunities: The broader Olive Creek State Recreation Area offers 437 acres of land designated for hunting, including upland game, turkey, waterfowl, and deer during their respective seasons, appealing to local hunters.
• Picnicking and Day Use: With numerous picnic tables and grills available, the park is also an excellent choice for day trips, family outings, or casual gatherings, offering a scenic backdrop for outdoor meals.
• Wildlife Viewing: The diverse habitats of the recreation area attract various wildlife and bird species, providing opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography.
• Accessible Location: Its close proximity to Lincoln makes it a convenient and practical option for a quick escape, allowing Nebraskans to enjoy outdoor recreation without extensive travel.
• Managed by Nebraska Game and Parks: Being part of the state park system ensures the area is managed for conservation and public enjoyment, with facilities maintained to a standard appropriate for a rustic recreation area.

As a State Recreation Area managed by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Olive Creek Dam-Site 2 Park operates under a standardized fee structure, and therefore does not typically offer traditional "promotions" or "special offers" in the commercial sense. The focus is on providing accessible and affordable outdoor recreation for all Nebraskans.

However, visitors should be aware of the following fee requirements and how to optimize their value:

• Nebraska State Park Permit: A Nebraska State Park Permit is mandatory for all vehicles entering Olive Creek State Recreation Area. This permit can be purchased as an annual pass or a daily pass. For Nebraska residents who plan to visit state parks and recreation areas frequently throughout the year, purchasing the annual permit offers significant cost savings compared to buying daily passes for each visit. This annual permit acts as an ongoing "value offer" for regular park-goers.
• Campsite Fees: Camping fees are charged per night. These fees are collected via the "Iron Ranger" (self-service envelope) system, as all campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The fees are typically modest, reflecting the primitive nature of the camping. It is always advisable to check the official Nebraska Game and Parks Commission website for the most current pricing, as fees can be subject to change.

While you won't find flash sales or discount codes for Olive Creek Dam-Site 2 Park, the overall affordability of its fees, combined with the comprehensive access provided by the annual State Park Permit, makes it an economical choice for Nebraskans seeking outdoor adventures. The primary "offer" is the inherent value of a peaceful, well-maintained natural area perfect for fishing and primitive camping.

To plan your visit or gather more specific details about Olive Creek Dam-Site 2 Park and the Olive Creek State Recreation Area, you can utilize the following contact details:

• Address: 24100 SW 100th St, Hallam, NE 68368, USA
• Phone: (402) 796-2362 (This is the primary phone number for inquiries related to the park.)
• Mobile Phone (same number for direct contact): +1 402-796-2362
• Nebraska Game and Parks Commission: For comprehensive information regarding Nebraska's state parks and recreation areas, including details on permits, regulations, and fishing/boating guides across the entire system, the official Nebraska Game and Parks Commission website (outdoornebraska.gov) is the most authoritative resource.

Given that camping at Olive Creek Dam-Site 2 Park is on a first-come, first-served basis, direct reservations for individual sites are not accepted. However, contacting the park office by phone can be beneficial for general inquiries about current park conditions, water levels, or any specific alerts that might be in place. Regularly checking the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission website is also recommended for the latest updates and detailed park information before your visit.

Olive Creek Dam-Site 2 Park is an exceptionally suitable destination for Nebraskans, particularly those seeking an accessible, quiet, and engaging outdoor experience without the need for extensive travel. Its charm lies in its simplicity and the natural beauty it offers, making it a perfect fit for the local community's outdoor preferences.

Firstly, its close proximity to Lincoln is a significant advantage. For city residents, a short 20-30 minute drive means that a peaceful fishing trip, a spontaneous camping night, or a relaxing picnic is always within easy reach. This convenience makes it an ideal spot for quick getaways that don't demand meticulous planning or long hours on the road, perfect for busy schedules.

Secondly, the park's primary draw—fishing—is a beloved pastime for many Nebraskans. The lake's healthy population of saugeye, along with other species, ensures a rewarding experience for anglers of all skill levels. The added convenience of a fish cleaning station highlights the park's dedication to this popular activity. The "no wake" lake policy also creates a serene environment for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, appealing to those who prefer calm waters.

While some reviews mention the water levels can be low or note the presence of vault toilets, these aspects are characteristic of a more rustic state recreation area, and for many locals, they contribute to the authentic, unpretentious outdoor experience. The park's commitment to being "clean and kept up" ensures that despite its primitive nature, it remains a pleasant and inviting space. For Nebraskans looking for an affordable, straightforward, and genuinely relaxing connection with nature, whether for a day of fishing or a night under the stars, Olive Creek Dam-Site 2 Park offers a valuable and highly suitable local escape.