Located just west of Fremont, Nebraska, Fremont Lakes is a popular outdoor destination featuring 20 alternative sandpit lakes. Officially known as Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area (SRA), this scenic recreation area attracts visitors who enjoy fishing, swimming, boating, camping, and spending time outdoors.
The recreation area covers approximately 401 acres of land and 270 acres of water, according to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s 2023 State Parks Guide. Its collection of lakes offers different opportunities for anglers, families, campers, and water sports enthusiasts.
Whether you’re planning a summer getaway, looking for a fishing destination, or searching for a place to enjoy a weekend near Fremont, these lakes offer several ways to experience eastern Nebraska’s outdoors.
Where Are Fremont Lakes Located?
Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area is located approximately three miles west of Fremont in Dodge County, eastern Nebraska.
The recreation area’s official address is:
4349 W. State Lakes Road, Fremont, NE 68025.
The destination is relatively easy to reach from Fremont and provides access to several interconnected recreational areas, campgrounds, and individual sandpit lakes.
Its location also makes it a convenient outdoor destination for people exploring eastern Nebraska.
How Many Lakes Are at Fremont Lakes?
Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area contains 20 alternative sandpit lakes created through excavation.
These lakes developed from sand and gravel extraction in the area. Over time, the excavated pits filled with water and became recreational fishing and boating destinations.
According to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, the recreation area includes:
| Feature | Details |
| Total number of lakes | 20 |
| Type of lakes | Man-made sandpit lakes |
| Land area | Approximately 401 acres |
| Water area | Approximately 270 acres |
| Location | Three miles west of Fremont |
| County | Dodge County |
| State | Nebraska |
| Managing agency | Nebraska Game and Parks Commission |
Some official fishing information reports 285 water acres across 17 managed fishing lakes. This figure comes from a different management listing and should not be confused with the broader recreation area’s 20-lake total.
Nebraska Game & Parks Commission
The lakes vary in size and recreational use. Some are particularly popular with anglers, while others accommodate boating, swimming, and personal watercraft.
Best Things to Do at Fremont Lakes
Fremont Lakes offers several outdoor activities throughout the year. You can spend a few hours fishing, enjoy a day on the water, or stay overnight at one of the campgrounds.
Here are some of the most popular ways to enjoy the recreation area.
Fishing at Fremont Lakes
Fishing is one of the main attractions at Fremont Lakes. Its multiple lakes provide opportunities to catch several freshwater fish species.
According to Nebraska’s official fishing information, anglers can find:
- Largemouth bass
- Bluegill
- Crappie
- Catfish
- Muskellunge
- Rainbow trout
- Other species listed in the state’s fishing guide
Different lakes support different fishing opportunities, so checking the individual lake information before heading out can help you choose a suitable spot.
Lake 18 is particularly interesting for trout fishing because rainbow trout are stocked seasonally. The state’s fishing guide also identifies Lake 20 for muskellunge stocking.
Fishing piers are available on several lakes, including accessible facilities that make shoreline fishing easier.
Before fishing, review Nebraska’s current fishing regulations, licensing requirements, and any lake-specific restrictions.
Swimming and Enjoying the Beach
Swimming is another popular summer activity at Fremont Lakes.
The recreation area has a designated swimming beach where visitors can enjoy the water and relax along the sandy shoreline. The beach is identified by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission as an unsupervised swimming area.
That means visitors should supervise children carefully and avoid assuming lifeguards are present.
For a more enjoyable swimming experience:
- Check local swimming advisories before visiting.
- Follow posted beach rules.
- Keep children within your sight.
- Avoid swimming during thunderstorms or dangerous weather.
- Use appropriate flotation equipment when needed.
The sandy setting makes the beach a convenient place for families and groups looking to spend time outdoors.
Boating and Water Sports
Fremont Lakes is also a popular destination for boating and water-based recreation.
Depending on the lake and applicable restrictions, visitors can enjoy activities such as:
- Recreational boating
- Water skiing
- Personal watercraft activities
- Kayaking
- Other permitted nonmotorized water activities
However, boating rules differ between individual lakes.
The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s fishing guide identifies several important restrictions:
| Lake | Boating restriction |
| Lake 16 | 5 mph, no-wake restriction |
| Lake 20 | 5 mph, no-wake restriction |
| Victory Lake (Lakes 10 and 15) | Nonpowered and electric motor-powered vessels only |
| Other listed lakes | Electric motor or nonpowered boats only |
Nebraska Game & Parks Commission
These restrictions matter when choosing a lake for your preferred activity. Check current signs and official regulations before launching a boat.
Camping Near the Lakes
Camping gives visitors more time to enjoy Fremont Lakes without rushing home after a day outdoors.
The recreation area offers several camping options, including:
- Electric Plus campsites
- Electric campsites
- Basic campsites
- alternative camping
The campgrounds sit among mature shade trees and provide facilities such as drinking water, showers, modern restrooms, and dump-and-fill stations.
Some electrical campsites can be reserved in advance, while other camping spaces are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Reservation availability and advance-booking windows depend on the campsite type.
visitnebraska.com
Camping is a good option for families, fishing enthusiasts, and travelers who want to combine several activities into one trip.
Check the official reservation website for current campsite availability, fees, and seasonal information before making plans.
Picnicking and Spending Time Outdoors
You don’t need to plan a full day of activities to enjoy Fremont Lakes.
The recreation area provides opportunities for picnicking, relaxing near the water, and spending time with family or friends.
You can bring food, enjoy the outdoor surroundings, and take a break between fishing, swimming, and boating activities.
The combination of open water, grassy areas, and shaded surroundings makes the recreation area suitable for casual outdoor visits.
Walking, Nature Watching, and Photography
The lakes also provide opportunities to appreciate eastern Nebraska’s natural surroundings.
Visitors may enjoy watching birds, observing wildlife, and photographing the water and shoreline.
The area is particularly appealing to people who prefer quieter outdoor experiences over motorized recreation.
Early mornings and evenings can offer attractive lighting for landscape photography. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, so observe animals from a respectful distance.
Exploring the Different Fremont Lakes
One of the interesting features of Fremont Lakes is that the recreation area contains numerous separately numbered lakes rather than one large body of water.
The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission provides individual contour maps for many of these lakes. Its fishing guide also identifies specific lakes with different fish populations and boating restrictions.
Here are some notable examples.
Lake 2
Lake 2 is known for its seasonal trout fishing opportunities.
The Nebraska State Parks Guide identifies this lake as a place for trout fishing from fall through spring. Check the current stocking information before planning a fishing trip.
Nebraska State Parks Guide
Lake 16
Lake 16 is an important recreational and gathering area within Fremont Lakes.
The recreation area has a group facility near its shoreline, which visitors can contact the park about reserving for family gatherings and events. Lake 16 also has a 5 mph no-wake boating restriction.
Lake 18
Lake 18 is identified in the official fishing guide as a lake with seasonal rainbow trout stocking. It can be worth considering if trout fishing is part of your visit.
Nebraska Game & Parks Commission
Lake 20
Lake 20 is another notable fishing destination within the recreation area.
The state fishing guide identifies it as a muskellunge stocking location. Boats on this lake must follow the 5 mph no-wake restriction.
Nebraska Game & Parks Commission
Victory Lake
Victory Lake is associated with Lakes 10 and 15 in the state’s fishing guide.
It has a specific boating restriction: only nonpowered and electric motor-powered vessels are permitted. This makes checking the rules especially important before bringing a boat.
Nebraska Game & Parks Commission
Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area Map and Facilities
A park map can make your visit easier, especially if you want to find a particular lake, campground, fishing pier, or boat ramp.
The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission provides an official park map showing the numbered lakes and recreation facilities.
You can use it to locate:
- Individual lakes and waterfront areas
- Boat ramps
- Swimming areas
- Fishing piers
- Campgrounds and tent sites
- Restrooms and showers
- Drinking water stations
- Picnic shelters
- Playgrounds
- Group facilities
Official resources:
Best Time to Visit Fremont Lakes
The best time to visit Fremont Lakes depends on what you want to do.
Spring
Spring is a good season for anglers, particularly those interested in the seasonal trout fishing opportunities at Lake 2 and Lake 18.
Temperatures can vary, so check weather conditions before planning outdoor activities.
Summer
Summer is generally the most popular season for swimming, camping, boating, and picnicking.
Families can enjoy the designated swimming beach, while boating enthusiasts can explore the lakes where their preferred vessels are permitted.
Fall
Fall offers a quieter atmosphere and opportunities for fishing, photography, and outdoor relaxation.
The changing foliage can also make the surrounding landscape attractive for nature photography.
Winter
Winter visits require more preparation because cold temperatures can affect outdoor access and recreation.
Anglers should check seasonal fishing information and local conditions before visiting. Never assume that ice is safe for walking or fishing.
Rules, Park Permits, and Visitor Information
Before visiting Fremont Lakes, familiarize yourself with the recreation area’s basic requirements.
Park permits: Nebraska requires a park entry permit for vehicles entering state recreation areas. You can check current permit options and purchase information through the state park website.
Nebraska Game & Parks Commission+1
Fishing licenses: Follow Nebraska’s fishing license requirements and applicable species-specific regulations.
Boating restrictions: Different lakes have different motor and speed restrictions. Follow posted signs and official boating regulations.
Swimming safety: The designated swimming beach is unsupervised. Visitors should take personal responsibility for water safety.
Camping: Check campsite availability, reservation requirements, and current fees before traveling.
Contact information:
| Visitor information | Details |
| Recreation area | Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area |
| Address | 4349 W. State Lakes Road, Fremont, NE 68025 |
| Phone | (402) 727-2922 |
| Managing agency | Nebraska Game and Parks Commission |
| Park permits | Required |
Nearby Attractions in Fremont, Nebraska
If you’re spending more time in the area, Fremont has additional attractions worth considering.
Downtown Fremont
Downtown Fremont offers shopping opportunities, local businesses, and historic surroundings.
You can explore boutiques, antique shops, and other local attractions after spending time at the lakes.
Louis E. May Historical Museum
The Louis E. May Historical Museum is an option for visitors interested in local history.
It provides an opportunity to learn more about Fremont and the surrounding Dodge County area.
Platte River Area
The Platte River region offers another perspective on eastern Nebraska’s outdoor environment.
Visitors interested in wildlife and river scenery can explore relevant nearby recreation opportunities.
Visit Nebraska also highlights airboat tours and other outdoor experiences around Fremont.
Visit Nebraska
Frequently Asked Questions About Fremont Lakes
How many lakes are in Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area?
Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area contains 20 alternative sandpit lakes. The recreation area has approximately 401 acres of land and 270 acres of water, according to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s 2023 state parks guide.
Are Fremont Lakes natural or alternative?
Fremont Lakes are alternative sandpit lakes. They developed from excavated sand and gravel pits that filled with water.
Can you swim at Fremont Lakes?
Yes. Fremont Lakes has a designated swimming beach. However, the beach is unsupervised, so visitors should follow safety precautions and supervise children.
Can you fish at Fremont Lakes?
Yes. Fishing is a popular activity across the recreation area. Depending on the lake, anglers can find largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, bluegill, muskellunge, and rainbow trout.
Are there camping facilities at Fremont Lakes?
Yes. The recreation area offers Electric Plus, Electric, Basic, and alternative campsites. Facilities include drinking water, showers, restrooms, and dump-and-fill stations.
Can you bring a motorboat to Fremont Lakes?
Some lakes allow motorized boating, but restrictions vary. Lakes 16 and 20 have 5 mph no-wake restrictions. Victory Lake allows only nonpowered and electric motor-powered vessels.
Where are Fremont Lakes located?
Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area is approximately three miles west of Fremont, Nebraska, in Dodge County. Its official address is 4349 W. State Lakes Road.
Is there a fee to visit Fremont Lakes?
Yes. A Nebraska state park entry permit is required for vehicle entry. Camping fees are separate and depend on the campsite and applicable reservation requirements.
What fish can you catch at Fremont Lakes?
Common fishing opportunities include largemouth bass, bluegill, crappie, catfish, muskellunge, and rainbow trout. Certain lakes have specific stocking programs.
Is Fremont Lakes a good place for a family outing?
Yes. Families can enjoy swimming, picnicking, fishing, camping, and other outdoor activities. However, adults should supervise children carefully around the water, especially at the unsupervised swimming beach.
Conclusion
Fremont Lakes is one of eastern Nebraska’s popular destinations for outdoor recreation. Its 20 alternative sandpit lakes offer opportunities for fishing, swimming, boating, camping, and family outings.
Each lake has its own recreational characteristics and restrictions, making it worthwhile to check the official park map before visiting. Whether you’re planning a summer swimming trip or a weekend fishing getaway, Fremont Lakes provides several ways to enjoy Nebraska’s outdoors.
Hello, I’m Oliver Whitmore, and I’ve spent years exploring Britain’s beautiful lakes as well as freshwater landscapes across Europe and beyond. I enjoy researching the history, geography, wildlife, and cultural significance of lakes, then turning that knowledge into practical, easy-to-understand articles.
I believe every lake tells a story, whether it’s shaped by ancient glaciers, surrounded by legends, or home to remarkable wildlife. Through my writing, I hope to help readers discover the beauty and importance of these natural wonders.
Books I’ve Written:
- Britain’s Hidden Lakes
- The Freshwater Explorer’s Handbook
Henry Ashford