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Calamus Reservoir (Virginia Smith Dam)

Burwell, Nebraska · Garfield County

Virginia Smith Dam (formerly called Calamus Dam) and Calamus Reservoir, North Loup Division, P-SMBP, are on the Calamus River in Nebraska. Recreation at the site is managed for the Bureau of Reclamation by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. Reservoir open 24 hours. Good access roads. Fishing season is year round. …

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41.83852, -99.20321
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About Calamus Reservoir (Virginia Smith Dam)

Virginia Smith Dam (formerly called Calamus Dam) and Calamus Reservoir, North Loup Division, P-SMBP, are on the Calamus River in Nebraska. Recreation at the site is managed for the Bureau of Reclamation by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. Reservoir open 24 hours. Good access roads. Fishing season is year round. Available species include walleye, wiper, white bass, northern pike, largemouth bass, rainbow trout, and crappie. Irrigation supply reservoir experiencing moderate fluctuations. The reservoir has 5,142 water surface acres, 6404 land acres and 31 miles of shoreline. Current reservoir level.

Plan Your Visit to Calamus Reservoir (Virginia Smith Dam)

Heading to Calamus Reservoir (Virginia Smith Dam)? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Calamus Reservoir (Virginia Smith Dam)?

No central reservation system listed for Calamus Reservoir (Virginia Smith Dam). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/73) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Calamus Reservoir (Virginia Smith Dam)?

Site is 5 miles northwest of Burwell. Nearest highway is Nebraska 91.

How do I contact Calamus Reservoir (Virginia Smith Dam)?

You can reach the park at phone: 308-346-5666 or email: calamus@ngpc.ne.gov.