Swanson Reservoir State Recreation Area

Situated on the Republican River, two miles west of Trenton on U.S. 34, Swanson Reservoir State Recreation Area offers boaters and anglers 4,794 acres of crystal clear water at top conservation pool as well as nearly another 4,000 acres of public land for outdoor recreation and wildlife. In the fall and winter, hunters pursue waterfowl, upland game birds, and deer, while anglers chop the ice for crappie and northern. The water clarity of the lake has a special appeal for both boaters and anglers. Trophy-size northern pike lurk among the submerged willows and along the face of the dam. Swanson is also known for its large, numerous walleye and a growing population of black bass. Crappie anglers can do well in the shallows during spawning season, but the real draw is the large schools of white bass from July through September. The correct bait, well-placed, will yield a white bass virtually every cast. Nearby Spring Canyon Campground offers top-notch camping facilities, with modern restrooms and showers, 50 rock-surfaced pads (45 with electrical hookups), and large parking lot. There are two boat ramps and a mooring dock in the well-sheltered bay. Located nearby, the concession offers short-order food, groceries, bait, tackle, water-ski equipment, gas, hunting, fishing and park entry permits, and a trailer court with electrical hookups. There are sanitary trailer stations at both Spring Canyon and the other modern campground at Macklin Bay, another protected cove.