Natural swimming hole
Maple Creek Recreation Area sand beach
Lake · Nebraska
About this swimming hole
Maple Creek Recreation Area northwest of Leigh covers about 550 acres around a 160-acre lake created by the Maple Creek Dam, which opened to the public in May 2011. The City of Leigh notes a sand swimming beach near the boating docks, and Lower Elkhorn NRD rules permit swimming only in the designated area. The recreation area also offers RV and primitive camping, trails and picnic areas.
Good to know
| Water type | Lake |
|---|---|
| Depth | Maximum depth of the permanent pool is 30-35 feet (lake, not swim area) |
| Best season | June-August |
| Reservations required | No |
| Hours | Swimming beach closed between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. (Lower Elkhorn NRD rules) |
| Parking | Parking lots in the recreation area |
| Amenities | picnic areas, showers, restrooms, hiking and biking trail, boat ramps |
| County | Colfax County |
| Nearest town | Leigh |
| Safety notes | Swimming permitted in designated area only; pets prohibited on the swimming beach; check Nebraska Beach Watch - the lake was under a harmful algal bloom health alert in July 2026 and beaches close during alerts |
Map
Official information
Official park / agency page ↗ — check current conditions, fees, and reservations here before you go.
Nearby swimming holes
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Maple Creek Recreation Area sand beach?
Yes — Maple Creek Recreation Area sand beach is listed as a natural swimming spot in Nebraska. Heads-up: Swimming permitted in designated area only; pets prohibited on the swimming beach; check Nebraska Beach Watch - the lake was under a harmful algal bloom health alert in July 2026 and beaches close during alerts. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — verify conditions locally before you go.
Does Maple Creek Recreation Area sand beach require reservations?
No reservations are required at Maple Creek Recreation Area sand beach based on current information — but verify before you go.
When is the best time to visit Maple Creek Recreation Area sand beach?
The best season is typically June-August.
Is Maple Creek Recreation Area sand beach safe for swimming?
Reported safety notes: Swimming permitted in designated area only; pets prohibited on the swimming beach; check Nebraska Beach Watch - the lake was under a harmful algal bloom health alert in July 2026 and beaches close during alerts. There are rarely lifeguards at natural swimming holes — swim at your own risk.