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Home >  United States  >  Nebraska  >  Pierce  >  

Willow Creek Recreation Area

Willow Creek Recreation Area

United States, Nebraska, Pierce 

Sandee

Willow Creek Recreation Area

United States, Nebraska, Pierce 

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Willow Creek State Recreation Area in Pierce, Nebraska, is a 1,633-acre outdoor haven centered around a 700-acre flood control reservoir[1][3]. The area offers a mix of serene natural beauty and recreational excitement, with its limestone hike/bike trail, wooded shorelines, and diverse wildlife. Visitors enjoy a laid-back vibe perfect for fishing, camping, and water sports, while the no-wake boating zones provide peaceful kayaking opportunities[1][3][5].

The beach here features an unsupervised swimming area, ideal for families looking to cool off during summer months. Its proximity to Pierce (1.5 miles southwest) makes it easily accessible, while the expansive lake and surrounding trails ensure ample space for exploration and relaxation[3][5].

Nearby dining options in Pierce cater to casual tastes, with 4/11 Bar & Grill offering hearty comfort food and a women-owned, family-friendly atmosphere (4/11 Bar & Grill). Casey’s serves quick bites like pizza and breakfast sandwiches at its convenience store/gas station hybrid (Casey’s). Subway provides customizable sandwiches and salads for health-conscious visitors (Subway)[restaurant data].

These establishments prioritize convenience and accessibility, with wheelchair-friendly facilities and parking options. While upscale dining is limited locally, Norfolk (20 miles south) offers additional hotel restaurants and chains[restaurant data][hotel data].

While no hotels operate directly at Willow Creek, nearby Norfolk (20 miles south) provides several chain options. Holiday Inn Express & Suites Norfolk stands out with modern rooms and an indoor pool (Holiday Inn Express), while Norfolk Lodge & Suites (Ascend Hotel Collection) features a driving range and conference facilities (Norfolk Lodge)[hotel data].

Budget travelers can consider Rodeway Inn ($64/night) or Eco-Lux Inn, both offering free breakfast and Wi-Fi[hotel data]. On-site camping at Willow Creek includes 100 first-come-first-served pads with electrical hookups and modern shower facilities[3][4].

The recreation area provides well-maintained facilities including modern shower houses with laundry, vault toilets, and potable water stations[3][4]. Picnic shelters with grills dot the shoreline, while an 8-mile limestone trail accommodates hikers and cyclists[1][5].

Campers appreciate the 64 electrical hookups and dump station, though amenities like Wi-Fi are limited to nearby town establishments. The disc golf course and playground add family-friendly appeal[2][3].

Anglers thrive here with abundant crappie, walleye, and wipers, aided by seven rock jetties[1][5]. Water skiing and jet skiing dominate the main lake, while the west end’s no-wake zone is perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding[1][3].

Land-based recreation includes hunting (archery-only deer, waterfowl) and snowmobiling in winter. The 8-mile multi-use trail serves hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders year-round[1][3][5].

Accessible features include wheelchair-friendly fishing jetties, restrooms, and parking spaces[1][2]. The limestone trail offers relatively flat sections suitable for mobility devices, though some areas may require assistance due to natural terrain[3][5].

Nearby restaurants like 4/11 Bar & Grill and Subway provide ADA-compliant seating and entrances[restaurant data]. Campgrounds offer select ADA-friendly pads, though availability is limited[3][4].

Multiple free parking lots serve day-use areas and trailheads, with dedicated spaces near the swimming beach and boat ramps[1][2]. Campers use designated RV-friendly pads with electrical hookups, while overflow parking accommodates peak season visitors[3][4].

No paid parking exists within the recreation area, though street parking in Pierce (1.5 miles northeast) may have time restrictions during town events[restaurant data].

Willow Creek’s flood control reservoir was a $5.2 million collaboration between the Lower Elkhorn NRD and Nebraska Natural Resources Commission[3]. The lake occasionally hosts competitive fishing tournaments due to its exceptional walleye and wiper populations[1][5].

During winter, the frozen lake surface becomes a hub for ice fishing and snowmobiling - a rare dual-use feature in Nebraska’s state recreation areas[3][5].

The 8-mile limestone hike/bike trail remains the crown jewel, winding through diverse habitats[1][5]. History buffs appreciate the $5.2 million reservoir project’s 1982 construction history, while geology enthusiasts study the Elkhorn River watershed[3].

Nearby Pierce offers small-town charm, while Norfolk boasts attractions like the Johnny Carson Theatre and Elkhorn Valley Museum, both within a 25-minute drive[hotel data].

Basic Details

INParking

INRestroom Available

INBeige

IN5CFH+8R Pierce, NE, USA

Know Before You Go

Amenities

  • ATM

  • Barbecue

  • Boat Ramp

  • Dogs

  • Entry Fee

  • Fire Pits

  • Hidden

  • Lifeguard

  • Marine Life

  • Pier

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesPlayground

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesRestrooms

  • Shops

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesShowers

  • WiFi

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesPicnic Table

  • Activities

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesBike Paths

  • Camping

  • Clubs Party Scene

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesFishing

  • Hiking

  • Nude

  • Paddle boarding

  • Scuba Diving

  • Snorkeling

  • Surfing

  • Tours

  • Volleyball

  • Cave

  • Rentals

  • ATV

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesBikes

  • Boat

  • Fishing Boats

  • Jet Skiing

  • Kayaking Canoeing

  • Chair Rentals

  • Sailing

  • Speed Boats

  • Umbrella Rental

  • Waterskiing

  • Windsurfing

  • Yachts

  • Food

  • Bars

  • Food Snacks

  • Local Beach Vendor

  • Lounge

  • Restaurants

  • Access

  • Bike Racks

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesCar Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesDisabled Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesFoot Access

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesParking - Free

  • Parking - Paid

  • Icon for Beach AmenitiesParking - RV Parking

  • Parking - Street

  • Public Bus Stop

  • Stairs to Beach

  • Boat Access

  • Features

  • Blue Flag

  • Jellyfish

  • Pebbles

  • Riptide

  • Rocky

  • Sharks

  • LGBTQ+

  • Willow Creek Recreation Area - Beach Map

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    Frequently Asked Questions

    Surf through our FAQs to help you find your perfect beach!

    Does Willow Creek Recreation Area have parking? If so, is it free or paid?

    Yes, this Beach provides free parking at the entrance, although spaces are limited. Visitors can also find street parking nearby for easy access to the beach.

    Does Willow Creek Recreation Area have lifeguards?

    No, this Beach does not have lifeguards monitoring the beach - please be careful when swimming on this beach.

    Is Willow Creek Recreation Area a family-friendly beach?

    No, this Beach is not family-friendly and does not have restrooms, lifeguards, and nearby food.

    Is Willow Creek Recreation Area good for swimming?

    Yes, this Beach boasts excellent swimming conditions, attracting swimmers of all skill levels with its gentle waves and clear waters.

    Does Willow Creek Recreation Area have restrooms?

    Yes, Restrooms are conveniently available on or adjacent to the beach at this Beach.

    Is Willow Creek Recreation Area a nude beach?

    No, this Beach maintains a family-friendly atmosphere and does not allow nude bathing.

    Is there food near Willow Creek Recreation Area?

    No, this Beach does not have nearby food options - please plan your beach day accordingly.

    What are the activities at Willow Creek Recreation Area?

    Yes, this Beach is renowned for its vibrant beach scene, offering various activities for everyone to enjoy Bike Paths, Camping, Fishing, Hiking.

    Does Willow Creek Recreation Area have accommodations for people with disabilities?

    Yes, this Beach offers accommodations for people with disabilities, allowing everyone to relish the coastal experience.

    Is Willow Creek Recreation Area a dog-friendly beach?

    No, this Beach is not dog-friendly.

    Is Willow Creek Recreation Area good for surfing?

    No, this Beach is not generally considered to be good for surfing.

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