Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area

Located in a picturesque Sandhills of Nebraska southwest of Valentine, Merritt Reservoir offers some of Nebraska’s best fishing, along with boating and camping. It is a deep lake with excellent inflow from the Snake River and Boardman Creek. The park also offers some of the darkest skies in the world, meaning the park is well-known for its stargazing opportunities. In 2022, it was designated as an International Dark Sky Park.

Location