Overview
A brief introduction to Merritt Reservoir
Merritt Dam is a dam in Cherry County, Nebraska, southwest of Valentine, in the north-central part of the state. The 126-foot (38 m) earthen dam impounds the Snake River as it flows along the southern edge of the Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest in the Sandhills. It created Merritt Reservoir in 1964 as a project of the United States Bureau of Reclamation. The reservoir holds almost 75,000 acre⋅ft (93,000,000 m3), with about 44 miles (71 km) of sandy shoreline and 3,000 surface acres (1,200 ha) of water.
Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area is adjacent to the eastern side of the reservoir and offers boating, fishing, camping, and hunting activities. The area, a noted dark-sky location, is the location of the annual Nebraska Star Party.
ARE Merritt Reservoir campsites SOLD OUT?
We can help! Many campsite reservations are cancelled daily. Just tell us when you’d like to camp at Merritt Reservoir, and how long you want to camp for. We’ll text you when a suitable spot opens up!
Scan for cancellationsContact Merritt Reservoir
- Reserve America
- Booking site: https://www.reserveamerica.com
Spotted an error?
Whoops! Sometimes we make mistakes. Want to help improve the Merritt Reservoir listing? Please suggest a correction.
Other nearby parks
Open to camping at other nearby parks? Here are a few other parks you'll find in the vicinity.
Reviews
Camper reviews for Merritt Reservoir
Be the first to post a review of Merritt Reservoir!
How was your visit to Merritt Reservoir? Share your review of Merritt Reservoir and help fellow nature-lovers make an informed decision.
Post a reviewMap
View a map of Merritt Reservoir
UNABLE TO RESERVE A CAMPSITE?
Get notified when a sold-out campground has availability
Tell us when, where, and how long you want to camp for. We’ll notify you (via SMS) when a suitable spot opens up at that campground—so you can nab that sold-out campsite reservation!