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Access Site NE

Smith Creek Recreation Area

Smith Creek-West Fork Big Blue River • Beaver Creek • West Fork Big Blue River

Source: nebraska_game_and_parks_commission Updated 1 year ago

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City: Utica, NE
County: Seward County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 40.80351373, -97.32913425
856 Co Rd 448, Utica, NE 68456, USA
Air Temp: --
Location
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Nearby Gauge Conditions
West Fork Big Blue River near Dorchester, Nebr. 9.4 mi away
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Big Blue River near Crete, Nebr. 24 mi away
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Middle Creek at Southwest 63rd Street at Lincoln, Nebr. 27.4 mi away
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Real-time data from USGS Water Services
About This Access Site
Located conveniently off Interstate 80 near Utica in Seward County, Smith Creek Recreation Area offers a scenic 20-acre lake surrounded by trees and prairie grasses—making it an ideal spot for kayakers and canoeists seeking calm water paddling. The recreation area features a boat dock for easy water access, making launches straightforward for both kayaks and canoes. Beyond paddling, the site provides amenities including restroom facilities at the boat-trailer parking lot, along with opportunities for fishing, swimming, and picnicking.

This access point is well-suited for paddlers looking for a quick outing or a longer recreational visit. The proximity to I-80 makes it convenient for travelers, while its distance from the interstate means you'll enjoy a peaceful paddling experience. The site is particularly popular during summer months for camping, scouting adventures, and day-use activities. With its combination of sheltered water, developed facilities, and easy access, Smith Creek Recreation Area is a solid choice for paddlers of all skill levels seeking calm-water paddling in central Nebraska.