Nebraska Tailwaters

Nebraska Tailwaters Campground is nestled along the Nebraska bank of the Missouri River, just downstream of Gavins Point Dam and Lewis & Clark Lake. The 31,400-acre Lewis & Clark Lake and Gavins Point Dam are nestled in the golden, chalkstone-lined valley of the Missouri River, growing into one of the most popular recreation destinations in the Great Plains. Located just below Gavins Point Dam, the dam tailwaters provide exceptional access to the Missouri River. A large 2-lane boat ramp and large parking area are available, along with an accessible fishing pier and many areas for bank fishing. The Lewis and Clark Lake area attracts more than 2 million visitors each year to its shores, with recreation opportunities around the lake including camping, fishing, hunting, hiking, boating, sailing, swimming, bird-watching, and photography. For biking and hiking enthusiasts, three trails are available in the area: a paved trail that runs from Yankton to the Gavins Point area, a multi-use trail in the Gavins Point area, and the Calumet Bluff hiking trail located near the visitor center. Wintertime activities include ice fishing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and sledding. Developed public parks and recreation areas surround the lake above and below Gavins Point Dam, with camping facilities provided by the Corps and the States of South Dakota and Nebraska including boat ramps, picnic areas, campsites with electricity, modern restrooms, playground equipment and trailer dump stations. Nebraska Tailwaters offers 36 campsites; 34 of these have electric hookups and 2 are non-electric, for tent camping only. Amenities include modern shower facilities with flush toilets, river access with shore fishing, a handicap accessible fishing pier, boat ramp, fish cleaning station and RV dump station. There is also a group camping area with electric hookups, picnic shelter, fire pit, grill, and vault toilet. The campground sits on the south bank of the Missouri River, along the tailwaters of Gavins Point Dam. Surrounding the area is the golden, chalkstone-lined Missouri River Valley. Nebraska Tailwaters is known for its exceptional bald eagle viewing year-round, along with many other birds of prey. Nearby are the Lewis and Clark Visitor Center, with exhibits on Missouri River and area history including the Lewis and Clark Expedition and stunning views of Lewis and Clark Lake and the Missouri River; the Gavins Point National Fish Hatchery and Aquarium; and Yankton, South Dakota, the historic capital of the Dakota Territory.