Here in Nebraska, the cool, calm days of fall usually don’t stick around long. Our summers tend to run long and our winters often arrive early, so you’ve got to take advantage of the mild temperatures while you can. There’s no better place to spend a fall day than out on the lake, and this lake in Antelope County is just calling your name.
Grove Lake Wildlife Management Area is located just north of Royal, Nebraska.
Google Maps
The incredibly picturesque 2,000-acre wildlife management area is a wonderful destination for wildlife lovers.
Google Local/Dan Krivolavek
You’ll be treated to a variety of animal sightings here, including turkey, pheasant, and deer. Water birds are plentiful, too - heron and osprey swoop and dive over the water as they search for their next meal.
Google Local/Dan Krivolavek
It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy being in nature, whether you’re in a boat or on dry land.
Google Local/Dan Krivolavek
The 50-acre lake is home to some of the best fishing in the entire state. Rainbow and brown trout, crappie, northern pike, and channel catfish populate the lake.
Google Local/Henry Talacko
You can spend the entire day at Grove Lake, enjoying hiking trails or shady picnic areas. You can even extend your stay overnight at one of the primitive campsites; water and toilets are available, but there is no electricity.
Google Local/Thomas Knutsen
No matter how long you stay at Grove Lake, you’ll be mesmerized by the natural beauty of this place. It’s one of the most picturesque recreation areas in the state, and it’s not widely known outside of the immediate area.
Google Local/Daniel Benkusky
After you’re done exploring the lake, stop by the Grove Lake Trout Rearing Station just to the south of the WMA. You can visit between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., and if you have some quarters for the food dispenser you can even feed the rainbow trout being raised there.
Nebraska Tourism
Visit Grove Lake Wildlife Management Area two miles north of Royal on Grove Lake Rd. If you love it so much that you decide to visit again in the summer, be sure to stop by the nearby Ashfall Fossil Beds Historical Site.
Google Maps
Google Local/Dan Krivolavek
Google Local/Henry Talacko
Google Local/Thomas Knutsen
Google Local/Daniel Benkusky
Nebraska Tourism
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
