2 | Destination Elwood/Johnson Lake 2024
Destination Elwood/Johnson Lake 2024 | 5
Table of Contents About the cover A sunset shot of Johnson Lake courtesy of Ryan Pickel of Elm Creek, Nebraska. 3-4 Map 16 17
PRAISE & WORSHIP Chapel at the Lake and Local Church Directory
serving you for life New life-saving devices installed at Johnson Lake
Full Fold-out map of Johnson Lake and Elwood Reservoir History of Elwood Welcome to North Platte. History of Johnson Lake An abridged history A home away from home Check out these Rental Homes available at Johnson Lake A walk in the woods Johnson Lake Hiking & Biking Trails including a detailed map Where Fitness never Sleeps Family Physical Therapy & Fitness Center is a hidden gem at Johnson Lake
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18 enjoy the great outdoors State Recreational Areas 20-22 you’ll have a great time
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Check out some of Elwood & Johnson Lake’s Attractions Home of the pirates See what Elwood Public Schools has to offer for your student FUN & ENTERTAINMENT Elwood & Johnson Lake Calendar of Events for 2024
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26-29 business directories
A list of Chamber Members for Elwood and Johnson Lake
6 | Destination Elwood/Johnson Lake 2024
the history of Elwood, Nebraska
The town of Elwood, the Gosper County seat and home to Johnson Lake and the Elwood Reservoir, is surrounded by lush pastures filled with cattle and table-like irrigated fields full of grain. It is hard to imagine how the area appeared in May 1885 when the railroad and land company decided to start a town at this location. Elwood became a terminal for the railroad when a roundhouse was built on
the west edge of the town. People flocked to the area and began to build homes and businesses. Soon, a clamor rose to move the Gosper County seat away from the “current” community of Homerville, an inland town that had been by-passed by the railroad, to the up-and- coming village of Elwood. Ultimately, Elwood was selected as the Gosper County seat. The buildings and homes in
Homerville were moved nine miles north, across the hills to Elwood. The population of Elwood steadily rose, and then took a jump in 1940 when the town was filled with construction workers building Johnson Lake and the irrigation canal system that is now Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District. Irrigation brought with it the ability to weather droughts. Agriculture income
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Destination Elwood/Johnson Lake 2024 | 7
remains the primary base of the community. Downtown Elwood was and still is the hub of the community. From the cooperative grocery store, banks, and gas stations, to the medical clinic and insurance businesses, there is always something going on. Elwood boasts many businesses, including a convenience store and motel, a senior center that provides
lunches for folks of any age, several retail businesses, and a caring and well-staffed care center/assisted living center. This small town with humble beginnings is still a close-knit and proud community. We take pride in the appearance of our community, in our public school, and we proudly support our local businesses.
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8 | Destination Elwood/Johnson Lake 2024
the history of Johnson Lake, Nebraska
An Abridged History of Johnson Lake by Jeff Buettner, Government & Public Relations Manager, Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District The area now covered by Johnson Lake was once a low-lying basin surrounded by gently sloping hills. The land, used mostly for pasturing livestock, was dotted with a few structures, including a rural school house (known as the Antelope School) and a couple farmsteads. The construction of The Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District’s huge irrigation and hydroelectric project -- anchored by Kingsley Dam and Lake McConaughy and spanning Nebraska from Keith County to Adams County-- began in 1936 and would change the landscape in the area. During the surveying process that preceded construction, Central’s engineers determined that a site southeast of Lexington was ideally suited for construction of a regulating reservoir and two hydroplants.
Construction of the dam on the south side of the basin began in 1939 and was completed in 1940. Soon after, water from Lake McConaughy was diverted from the Platte River below the city of North Platte into Central’s 75.6-milelong Supply Canal and the process of filling Johnson Lake for the first time began. When full, the lake covered 2,230 surface acres within 13 miles of shoreline and held almost 50,000 acrefeet of water (enough water to cover 50,000 acres with 12 inches of water). In places, the water reached depths of more than 50 feet. The lake was named for George E. Johnson, Central’s chief engineer. Johnson played a vital role in the promotion and design of the project from 1915 until its approval in 1935. He then became chief engineer and general manager of the project during its construction and subsequent operation. The lake that bears his name is an important component of Central’s project. As a regulating reservoir for the Johnson No. 1 and Johnson No. 2 (J-1 and J-2) Hydroplants, the lake converts
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Destination Elwood/Johnson Lake 2024 | 9
the uniform flow in the canal above the reservoir into the variable flow required by the hydroplants. A.C. Tilley, who succeeded Johnson as Central’s general manager in 1947, said the lake also serves as a secondary source of water in case of a “calamity” along the Supply Canal that might interrupt the flow of water to the hydroplants as well as a ready source of irrigation water for almost 50,000 acres of farmland along the Phelps Canal when irrigation demand suddenly increases. Tilley added that the lake can also serve as a “catch basin” for flows in the Supply Canal when rain storms temporarily halt demand for irrigation water. Development of that potential started slowly. The large body of water that gradually appeared in the lake turned the minds of many in neighboring towns to the possibility of recreational development. A number of area sportsmen, including Neil Shreck of Bertrand, Claude Smith and Judge J.S. Fitzsimmons of Elwood (Smith and Fitzsimmons were original members of Central’s board of directors) and a Mr. Bracken from Lexington, formed a wildlife preservation committee to make Johnson Lake “a spot to be enjoyed by everyone who desires to use it.” Included in the committee’s plans were a public boat dock and beautification plans for the shoreline that would include tree and shrub planting. By 1950, boats were common on the lake, but almost all were small wooden or aluminum fishing boats powered by five and ten-horsepower motors. By the early ‘60’s, larger crafts constructed of fiberglass with 50- and 60-hp motors were seen much more frequently on the lake. The experience of owning a cabin at the lake was simply not complete without a boat, and the number of boats swelled rapidly during the 1960’s. As evidence, a group of cabin owners from Grand Island cooperated on construction of a boat dock that extended two blocks out
ELWOOD JOHNSON LAKE A GREAT PLACE TO CALL HOME
Johnson Lake Chamber of Commerce PO Box 244 • Lexington, NE 68850 308-201-0885 • Johnsonlakechamber@icloud.com johnsonlake.org COME VISIT AND SEE WHAT WE HAVE TO OFFER In the heart of our nation and the center of Nebraska, you’re never far from what you need and you’ll always feel at home.
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10 | Destination Elwood/Johnson Lake 2024
into the lake and could accommodate as many as 32 boats. During the first several years of the lake’s existence, Central permitted only one “concession stand” at the lake, an establishment operated by a Mr. Remmenga from Elwood. The business was located on the east side of the lake on the site of what is now known as Medo’s Resort. Butch and Ellen Stevens later acquired the lease and operated Stevens Cabins until selling it to Allen and Naomi Hudson in 1957. The Hudsons operated the business as Johnson Lake Resort until 1963 when Harry and Reba Collins acquired and operated the facility as Collins Resort. The Collins in turn sold the resort to Clinton and Roesetha Mutchie in 1968. Ownership then passed to Elmer Bergman (Bergman’s Resort), Greg Medo, and then Shannon and Stafford Thompson, before returning to Medo in 2002. The Nebraska State Game, Forestation and Parks Commission (now known as the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission) first stocked the lake with game fish in 1941, although fishing was prohibited for the first year to allow the fish to grow and reproduce. Fishing became instantly popular when it was first permitted on July 1, 1942. The first true “cabin” on the lake was reportedly constructed by S.E. Salisbury in 1942. It was described as a one-room, wood-frame building on Sandy Point. Cliff Hurliss and Dr. G.V. Reynolds of Overton claimed in a 1965 newspaper article to have placed the second permanent structure at the lake in the early 1940’s. The home was moved from Overton to a site adjacent to what is now Crappie Corner. “A mighty deserted-looking area then,” according to Dr. Reynolds. “No trees, no water, no plumbing, just a simple cabin on a sandy knoll.”
More cabins soon followed, their owners coming from longer distances despite the difficulties posed by gasoline rationing. After the war ended and resources again became available, the pace of development increased. The boom in cabin-building was said to have started in about 1950 and a cabin sprung up on almost every available and suitable lot. By 1964 there were 548 cabins on the lake’s shore, ranging from one-room structures to more elaborate homes costing as much as $15,000. The number of cabins surpassed 600 by 1966 and another 36 lots in the North Cove, North Shore and Perch Bay areas were ready for development in 1969. Interest was unabated as more than 400 applications were entered into a lottery for the three dozen lots. By 1971 the number of cabins exceeded 700 and many cabin- owners had taken up year-round residence at the lake. Today homes and cabins entirely encircle the lake and number above 900. Development of the cabin areas was overseen by the Johnson Lake Development, Inc., which was formed in 1941. Central -- its agenda dominated by the task of operating its fledgling power and irrigation project, facing an exploding demand for irrigation water and electricity, and hampered by a shortage of manpower and recreational expertise -- leased Johnson, Plum Creek and Gallagher Canyon lakes for development of recreational assets. The aim of the group was to appoint directors from every city in the area that might be interested in the water recreation available at the lakes. Johnson Lake soon became the destination of many fishermen, campers, boaters, swimmers and picnickers seeking relief from their cares. In 1945, Central leased 50 acres of land to the Nebraska Game, Forestations and Parks Commission for what would become the
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Destination Elwood/Johnson Lake 2024 | 11
D awson C ounty H istory M useuM Developers led by Virgil Eihusen of Grand Island created 169 residential and six commercial lots in the area. Subsequently, George and Delores Harder of Grand Island opened the Lakeview Marina in 1971, offering groceries, bait and tackle, as well as a cafe, laundromat, Johnson Lake State Recreation Area. The treeless landscape became the site of one of the state agency’s first endeavors into tree-planting and the construction of its first recreation access road. A second camping area was added on the west side of the lake in the 1950’s. Water sports, particularly water skiing, began to become popular in the late 1950s and continued through the next three decades. Lake residents reported that it seemed like everyone at the lake was learning to ski in the 1960’s. A project to create additional lakefront property began in 1970 with a dredging operation in the northwest corner of the lake. The result was the Lakeview Acres subdivision surrounding Mahaffie Bay.
boat slips and boat rental. During the same time period, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission was also improving its facilities. The NGPC added three modern restrooms, six shelter houses and two change rooms to its campground on the east side of the lake in 1969 at a cost of $25,000. Also that year, the lake was completely encircled with a paved road for the first time when 4.3 miles of asphalt was laid. Several other stretches of road around the lake had previously been paved, mostly by cabin owners who agreed to fund construction through paving assessments. A couple of other noteworthy events in the early 1960’s included the opening of a nine-hole golf course -- then known as the Lexington Golf Club – below the dam in 1963. The owners of the Lexington golf course sold the land on which the course was situated because of construction of Interstate 80. With the money from the sale, they purchased land at Johnson Lake and built a new course. Nine more holes
were added to the course in 1990. Over the years, cabin-owners and thousands upon thousands of campers and daily visitors have enjoyed their leisure time at Johnson Lake. From the earliest days, newspapers ran photos of fishermen with their stringers straining under the weight of the day’s catch. The stories that accompanied the photos either told of the fight to land the huge catch, or recounted the inevitable story of “the big one that got away.” Other photos showed sailboat regattas, water skiers, campers, picnickers, swimmers and sunbathers, all brought together by the lure of the water. Johnson Lake continues to be one of the most popular destinations for recreation in Nebraska and a key component in the operation of Central’s hydro-irrigation project. Its construction and development are a testament not only to the men who designed and built the project, but to those who realized and cultivated its potential for recreation.
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rental properties at johnson lake A Home Away From Home
Get the space and comfort you need at one of these beautiful vacation rentals at Johnson Lake, Nebraska. Vacation rentals offer the best amenities for your stay with friends and family. Bonita Bay Lake Lovers’ Paradise awaits at Bonita Bay, a cozy 2-bedroom cabin that can accommodate up to 6 people, located on Johnson Lake, Nebraska. Guests only need to bring food and clothes as the cabin is abundantly furnished with everything else you’ll need! Bonita Bay is located at #14 Mallard Beach, Drive #20, directly on the lake, providing access to the seasonal dock for swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and docking watercraft during the day. Also available are kayaks, paddle board, bicycles, yard games and more! Guests often relax in the lakeside hammock, enjoying the extended patio that provides multiple tables and seating, propane grill, and firepit! This being my 16th year renting Bonita Bay, I feel so privileged to have met so many amazing people! Most people are from all parts of Nebraska, but also from 18 different states. Several guests have gone on to purchase their own cabins once they have discovered Johnson Lake with the lifestyle and amenities the lake has to offer. Bonita Bay is available year-round with reasonable and off-season rates. No VRBO, No Airbnb, just me – Bonnie (308) 233-7638. Visit Bonita Bay online at http://bonitabay.rocks. Eagle’s Nest Pack your bathing suit, hitch up your
boat, and embark on an unforgettable adventure at Johnson Lake! By calling this 5-bedroom, 2-bathroom vacation rental your home-away-from-home, you’ll enjoy access to a furnished deck, hot tub, and 2,000 square feet of beautifully appointed living space. Spend your days relaxing by the lake, fishing, hunting, and making memories that will last a lifetime! Come dinnertime, whip up a meal in the kitchen, or try a tasty local restaurant. Walk to the lake 150 yds. Hot tub, grill, lawn games, 2 kayaks, 2 bikes and splash pad upon request. Free WiFi, toiletries, beach towels, linens, washer/dryer and cooking basics. Contact for booking your reservation is https://evolve.com. Listing number is #433306. Off Course Lake House Sit back and relax at our spacious Lake House that has a picturesque view of the Lakeside Golf Club and Johnson Lake. This ideal location makes a great gathering place for family getaways, girls or guys weekend, golf outings, long weekends at the lake and more. Enjoy the view off the Lake House front deck, of the beautiful Johnson lake or watch golfers play on #8 Fairway up to the Green and #9 Tee Box. When staying with us, plan a round of golf for your group and be sure to ask about our VIP Golf Experience! Please consider Off Course Lake House for your next gathering. Call (308) 529- 1247 or book online at airbnb.com/h/ offcourselakehouse.
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Destination Elwood/Johnson Lake 2024 | 13
a walk in the woods Johnson Lake Trails
through shady tree stands, follow the edge of farm fields, follow canals, or pass through nature areas. The ultimate goal is to complete the trail forming a safe and assessable circle for non- motorized recreation and transportation. The Johnson Lake Trail is much more than just a concrete pathway. Spaced along the trail are gazebos, pergolas, and rest areas for users to enjoy. There are three Little Free Libraries and two bike repair stations along the trail. Trees, shrubs, a Nebraska-shaped pollinator garden, and flowers have been added to provide shade and color to the trail corridor. In 2020 the trail was recognized for the diversity of trees and shrubs as an affiliate to the Nebraska State Arboretum. Trailhead signs and parking areas provide access and directions for visitors to the lake. In 2023 two new playgrounds were added with access directly from the trail. The trail is open to walkers, runners, and cyclists of all ages. Pets on leases are welcome and bags are provided for cleaning up after your pet. Motorized wheelchairs and electric assist bikes are welcome. All other forms of motorized vehicles are not allowed. The trail provides an opportunity for residents and visitors to enjoy the beauty of Johnson Lake.
The Johnson Lake Trail project was first talked about in the early 2000’s and the dream took shape in the years that followed. The first segment was built in 2005 and additional trail added as funding and easements were acquired. Today the trail has over 8 miles of off-road concrete pathway. The 10.3 mile circle around the lake includes segments of shared roadway on the dam and near the inlet to the lake. The trail is designed to allow users to experience some of the various environs around the lake. There are segments that pass
14 | Destination Elwood/Johnson Lake 2024
family physical therapy & fitness center Where Fitness Never Sleeps
Are you tired of the same old gym routine? Look no further than Family Physical Therapy & Fitness Center! This family- owned business is a hidden gem at Johnson Lake, offering a wide range of services for all ages. They provide 24-hour gym access, athletic training, physical and occupational therapy, and medical care. They’ve got it all! With their team of experienced therapists, you can get the personalized care you need to achieve your fitness goals safely and effectively. Kapra, Family PT’s certified Physical Therapy Assistant,, works Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Therapists are also available by appointment if Tuesday or Thursday works better for you! Family PT’s Fitness Center offers 24/7 fob access. It is equipped with new treadmills, ellipticals, bikes, free weights, and a cable machine. Monthly and annual memberships are available starting at just $25 a month for Seniors and $50 for Family Memberships. Do you hate working out alone? We’ve got a trainer for that! Family PT offers certified athletic training one-on-one or with a buddy, whatever you prefer! Single sessions start at only $40! The PT/Trainer Andrew provides individuals with holistic and effective personalized workouts. Schedule a session today! But that’s not all - Family Physical Therapy & Fitness Center has partnered with Plum Creek Medical to offer even more services to their clients. Dr. Copley is available on Wednesday afternoons by appointment, providing family medical care right on-site. This state-of-the-art facility was created to meet the needs of the growing Johnson Lake community. With the help of Stacy
Reynolds, the Fitness Center was brought to life in 2023 and has been thriving ever since. Whether you’re looking to start a new fitness routine, recover from an injury, or receive medical care, Family Physical Therapy & Fitness Center has you covered. So why wait? Call today to sign up for a monthly or annual membership and start your journey to a healthier you!
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Destination Elwood/Johnson Lake 2024 | 15
Physical, Occupational, & Speech Therapy for the Whole Family!
Two area locations:
110 West 5th Street Lexington, NE 308.324.3700 74902 Johnson Lake Dr 26 Elwood, NE 308.785.4081 24/7 Gym Memberships Available familypt.com
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16 | Destination Elwood/Johnson Lake 2024
praise & worship at the lake Chapel of the Lake and memorials.
The Chapel Committee wishes to thank all persons who have given of their gifts, time and talents to this ministry through the years. A special THANKS goes to the ushers, the presiding laymen, the organists and those providing special music each Sunday. Come to a service and return again to worship and enjoy the fellowship at the beautiful lake setting. After attending you will leave with a prayer in your heart thanking God for the many blessings he has bestowed upon us. elwood & johnson lake church directory Chapel of the Lake Johnson Lake Interdenominational services 8:30 a.m. Sundays Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend First Christian Church Elwood | (308) 785-2244 10:30 a.m. Sundays First United Methodist Church Elwood | (308) 785-2315 9:30 a.m. Sundays Our Redeemer Lutheran Church Elwood | (308) 785-2875 10 a.m. Sundays St. John’s Catholic Church Smithfield (308) 995-4590 (Holdrege Office) 8:30 a.m. Sundays
The Chapel of the Lake is an interdenominational ministry at Johnson Lake. In the summer of 1962, the idea of a church to service the people who come to the lake to enjoy its many recreational activities was discussed among several cabin owners. Fourteen persons gathered at a cabin on Sandy Point one Sunday morning for an informal service with a Methodist minister preaching from a rocking chair. As others heard of the services the interest and enthusiasm grew. For the remainder of that summer, services were held in the former Camp Fire Girls cabin on Mallard Beach with between 80 and 85 attending. Realizing the need for a permanent meeting place, a committee was formed. They purchased the original chapel building from the Latter Day Saints in Eustis. It was moved to the present location in 1963. The bell, pews and reed organ were also added that year. The first service in the little chapel at its present location was on June 2, 1963 and was attended by 83 persons. Since that day, services have been held every summer beginning Memorial Day
weekend and continuing through the Labor Day weekend. To date, the total attendance for 59 years has reached 143,919 worshipers representing many denominations. Worshipers come from all over Nebraska, numerous states and occasionally from countries outside the United States. Visitors are asked to register once each season and share where they reside. Services begin at 8:30 a.m. Sunday with a guest minister bringing the message each week. In addition to the regular Sunday morning services, the Chapel is used for weddings and funerals plus numerous lake related meetings from mid-May through mid-September. The Chapel of the Lake is supervised by the Chapel Committee whose members have included volunteers from both permanent and summer residents of the lake. Anyone wishing to use the Chapel can contact the present chairman at 308- 785- 2287 to discuss any rent fees and availability of the chapel. The Chapel is self-supporting through generous weekly collections, donations
Destination Elwood/Johnson Lake 2024 | 17
serving you for life Life Saving Devices
rusticandred.com • facebook.com/rusticandred 139 West 8th | Cozad, NE 69130 | (308) 784-3200 Mon.-Sat. • 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sip & Shop • 3 rd Thurs. of every month, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Johnson Lake EMS and Central Nebraska Power and Irrigation installed new Life Saving devices along the canal from the inlet to the outlet. These are very visible and easy to use if a rescue is needed. The Johnson Lake EMS volunteers are trained and certified to perform medical needs, assistance and triage to prepare the patient for transportation to the Lexington Hospital. Our motto is “Serving you for life”. Every Memorial weekend Saturday we have a walk/run event followed by a helicopter fly-in if they are available. Come and have lunch with us at noon.
24-HOUR TOWING
Cozad (308) 784-2151 Eustis (308) 486-5515 Lexington (308) 324-6812 |
18 | Destination Elwood/Johnson Lake 2024
state recreational areas Enjoy the Great Outdoors with two fishing cleaning stations. A public swim beach provides a place for families to enjoy the water close to amenities and grills for family barbecues.
New amenities at the lake include a playground at the main campground and a public archery range, which is located on the north side of the Inlet. The range is open daylight hours only and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Johnson Lake is joined with nearby Gallagher Canyon State Recreation Area, Elwood Reservoir Wildlife Management Area, Plum Creek and Phillips Canyon, which are part of the Central Irrigation District Supply Canal and all link together for great recreational opportunities. Gallagher Canyon State Recreation Area is located south of Cozad off of Nebraska Highway 21, is a 400-acre irrigation impoundment with 24 acres of recreation land in a secluded and beautiful setting. Gallagher Canyon offers good crappie fishing in the coves, as well as channel and flathead catfish, walleye, sauger, and white bass. Gallagher Canyon has water access to more than 10 miles of the canal and is open to all boats but is in a no-wake zone. There is one boat ramp and one dock are avail- able along with a heavily wooded campground offering 24 non- pad campsites with no electricity. Vault toilets are available. There are no showers, water or dump stations. Elwood Reservoir Wildlife Management Area, south of Johnson Lake on U.S. Highway 283, is a hot spot for catching walleye, sauger, wiper, white bass, catfish, and northern pike. It is open year-round for fishing and many hunters have great success with waterfowl. There is no camping at Elwood Reservoir. Amenities include a vault toilet and one boat ramp and dock. The reservoir has a 5 mph, no-wake restriction for boats. Habitat consists of a 1,330-acre reservoir and 724 adjacent acres of grassland with some wooded sites. Visitors and residents are strongly encouraged to read and follow the Nebraska boater regulations, available at https:// outdoornebraska.gov/parks/go-boating/boat-registration-li- censing.
Johnson Lake State Recreation Area, located off of U.S. Highway 283 south of Lexington, offers guests excellent camp- ing, fishing, water sports, and more. The area has 112 pad camping sites with 20, 30, and 50-amp electrical hookups, modern restrooms, a shower house and dump station. All campers must register and reservations are accepted. There are 61 nonpad sites without electricity for basic camping. Anglers will find a variety of fish, including walleye, white bass and wipers. Recent angler access improvements provide great habitat for quality fishing. Two handicap-accessible fishing piers are available, one on the north side of the inlet and another on the south side along
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Destination Elwood/Johnson Lake 2024 | 19
IRRIGATION
HYDROELECTRIC POWER GENERATION
RECREATION
WILDLIFE HABITAT
GROUNDWATER RECHARGE
20 | Destination Elwood/Johnson Lake 2024
elwood & johnson lake attractions You’ll Have a Great Time
Johnson Lake has been referred to as Nebraska’s best-kept secret partly due to the pure enjoyment of lakeside living, but also due to the number of attractions, activities and outright outdoor fun! The Lake offers a wide variety of on-the- water fun including boating, sailing, water skiing, Jet Skiing® and wakeboarding. Johnson Lake is known across the region for excellent fishing (boasting some of the best walleye fishing the country), hunting and wildlife viewing. The fun isn’t all about being near or on the water. The area offers a local 18-hole golf course including 11 courses within a 50-mile radius. The hike and bike project provides residents and visitors with 7.6 miles of off-road trails at the lake. Other attractions include two public beaches, two state campgrounds, shopping, and annual events such as the Memorial Day Community Garage Sale, local county fairs, Elwood Carnival, Fourth of July Fireworks Show, fishing tournaments, sailing regattas, Antique Shows (Lexington). Come see for yourself. We guarantee you’ll have a great time! Other year-round attractions and events going on in Gosper County: The Annual Elwood Spring Gala, hosted by the Elwood Area Foundation,
takes place in late March every year. This elegant affair is a community fundraiser disguised as a fantastic night out. Each year, a sold-out crowd is treated to an incredible dinner, complimentary beverages, and live entertainment. Proceeds from the Gala auction are used for youth grants and grants for community projects. The House on the Hill Bed & Breakfast & Catering holds classes ranging from crafting to cooking to gardening. In July, Gosper County increases in size as alumni, family members, and folks from neighboring communities come to Elwood to celebrate the world-famous Gosper County Fair and Rodeo. Our hometown operated, family-friendly carnival is open Thursday- Friday- Saturday from 7 p.m. to midnight, and the Rodeo is held on Thursday and Friday evenings. The carnival is full of rides and games for all ages, and includes a full concession stand. Other fair-time events include a golf scramble, sand volleyball tournament, horseshoe tournament, 4-H events and displays, free entertainment at the Civic Center bandstand, and a parade every other year on “odd” years. Fall and winter months in Gosper County are full of sporting events, Husker
parties and good food. The Great Elwood Chili Cook-off is a bi-annual event, held on election years. The general public is invited to show off their best chili or soup; or, if you are more into eating than cooking, we invite you to come out and try all the offerings and vote on your favorite. In December, the Elwood Chamber hosts Old Fashioned Christmas, where businesses and organizations invite the public to attend their open houses in beautiful downtown Elwood. Attendees can talk to Santa at the Gosper County Senior Center, ride on a fire truck at the Fire Hall, and be treated to endless amounts of delicious food at each stop, all while entering drawings for door prizes and Chamber Bucks. Be sure to check out the Elwood Chamber’s Facebook Page or website www. elwoodnebraska.com, for the latest news on attractions in Gosper County, as well as the dates for Old Fashioned Christmas and other upcoming events. The Johnson Lake State Recreation Area is another favorite of outdoor lovers. Ten minutes north of Elwood, Johnson Lake SRA offers excellent camping, fishing (including ice fishing) and water sports. This recreation area packs a lot of
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outdoor fun in 68 acres and provides three access points to the 2,068-acre lake. It is the heart of a complex of lakes on the Tri- County Canal south of I-80 between Lexington and Cozad. It provides fine outdoor recreation opportunities, especially when joined with the nearby Gallagher Canyon SRA, Elwood Reservoir WMA, Plum Creek and Phillips Canyon. Two Johnson Lake attractions that provide entertainment, such as karaoke and live bands, are Nautical Rose and Canyon Lakes Brewing Company. Both venues offer entertainment, craft fairs, a farmer’s market, and great food and beverages. Medo’s Resort is another Johnson Lake restaurant, lounge, along with a pool table and dart board for friendly competition. In addition, Medo’s Resort has lakeside cabins for rent, a public boat ramp, dock, and swimming beach. CraZy Marv’s RV & Cabin Retreat offers RV pull throughs with full hook-ups, two remodeled cabins, a spacious three bedroom/ two bath house rental, bike rentals for every age, and a rental hall for events. Call CraZy Marv’s at 308-325-0760. Price’s Rentals is in the business of renting FUN! They rent out lake houses, boats, jet-skis, paddle boards, kayaks, electric scooters, bicycles, and party buses! They also sell live bait and tackle, water sports equipment, boating and camping supplies,
lake-themed apparel, yard games, unique gifts, beverages, and snacks. Price’s Rentals is famous for axe throwing and a cool place to hang out while playing games with family or friends. Come join in the FUN by boat or vehicle, located next to Lakeshore Marina. New for 2022 is property management and indoor boat storage. Another outdoor attraction is Lakeside Golf Club located at the southeast corner of beautiful Johnson Lake. The par 72 course offers a tee for all players with four tee locations on each hole. The course provides an exciting experience with every round of golf for all level of players with some of the best greens statewide that meets the needs of all golfers. Before or after your round you can enjoy a cold beverage and a picturesque view of the course and surrounding area. Call 308-785-2818 or visit www.playlakeside.com for a tee time at a superior course at the lake. Bald Eagle and American White Pelican viewing Johnson Lake is a birder’s paradise. Bald Eagles winter at Johnson Lake and surrounding areas and White Pelicans begin to arrive in the early spring when the ice is breaking up into areas of open water.
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fish and other food sources. They can be seen in the trees around the lake, as well as standing on the ice near areas of open water. The bald eagles and the white pelicans are a spectacular sight to behold! Lighthouses at Johnson Lake Johnson Lake is fortunate to have two Lighthouses: One at the Mallard Beach jetty and one at the Lakeview Acres jetty. The Lakeview Acres Lighthouse was dedicated on July 4, 2021 at a special ribbon-cutting ceremony. A dedication speech was written and delivered by Cinde Wendell, who was instrumental in organizing and collecting funds for the lighthouse. “Our Lighthouse began by forming a committee at the Lakeview Acres annual meeting in 2019 and grew to be an entire Johnson Lake project. All the planning, fundraising and installation happened during the pandemic. The Lighthouse design is a replica of the Bodie Island Lighthouse currently standing in the vicinity of Bodie Island on the Outer Banks in North Carolina. Our black and white lighthouse is the second lighthouse at Johnson Lake with the first red and white one on Mallard Beach. The Mallard Beach Lighthouse is a replica of Montauk Lighthouse in New York. The Mallard Bay light house organizers were extremely helpful with blazing a trail for this lighthouse as well as their unending support. Thank you to Johnson Lake Chamber of Commerce, Central Nebraska Irrigation & Public Power District, Lexington Community Foundation, the Mallard Bay Lighthouse Committee, JLDI, Lakeshore Marina & Nautical Rose for allowing access, Lakeview Acres, and all the support from all around the lake with donations, letters and encouragement. This lighthouse quote seems fitting for today… “Don’t forget that maybe you are the lighthouse in someone’s storm.” – Unknown author Finally, this project has turned out to be a positive beacon during a dark, pandemic time. May the lighthouse always serve as a shining example of hope for all of us. God Bless America!” Delivered by Cinde Wendell on July 4th, 2021.
Dawson County Fairgrounds 1000P lum C reek P arkway ,l exington dawsoncountyfair.com | 308.324.3600 | dawsonfairgrounds@gmail.com Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District’s Eagle Viewing facilities will be open to the public at Johnson No. 2 Hydroplant the first weekend of January and continue to be open every weekend through the end of February. Hours are 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the J-2 site. You can also view many bald eagles on and around Johnson Lake during the winter months. Each year the bald eagles travel to areas along the Platte River from as far away as Canada, Alaska and the Great Lakes state to look for
Dawson County Fair & Rodeo J uly 17-21, 2024 Dawson County High School Rodeo a ugust 16-18, 2024 Nebraska State Rodeo Finals s ePtember 6-8, 2024 Thanksgiving Classic Beef Show n ovember 29-30, 2024
Additional events and information can be found on our website - dawsoncountyfair.com
Destination Elwood/Johnson Lake 2024 | 23
Art • History • Festivals • Shopping Entertainment • Fine Dining • Adventure Discover more at www.barnquiltsdc.com
P aid for by C ozad T ourism
24 | Destination Elwood/Johnson Lake 2024
ELWOOD PUBLIC SCHOOLS Home of the Pirates
Elwood Public School is located in central Nebraska 15 miles south of Lexington, NE. The Elwood School is a PreK-12 facility serving approximately 205 students. The elementary contains around 110 students and the 7-12 population is around 95. Students can participate in athletic activities which include cross country, football, volleyball, basketball, wrestling, golf and track. These activities are in cooperation with Eustis-Farnam. This co-op is referred to as the Hi-Line Bulls. Other activities students are
involved in are Speech, One Act, journalism, FCCLA, FFA, choir, band, student council, quiz bowl, Future Problem Solvers, Math Counts, National Honor Society, county government day, conference music contest, district music contest, honor band and choir clinics, state FCCLA convention, livestock judging competitions, and science fair. Class sizes range from a low of 10 to a high of 20. A PreK program was added in 2016- 2017. This program serves mostly four- year-old students. It consistently averages
12-18 students. The list of school employees includes the Superintendent, Principal, 25 certified staff members and 20 noncertified employees. The current district land valuation is around $500,000,000. The current total levy .7285 cents per $100 of valuation. The district just completed an addition to the east side of the school. The addition includes restrooms, a concession area, custodial storage and food service storage. This addition was completed and opened in August of 2020.
“The mission of Elwood Public Schools is to provide a safe environment that fosters continuous learning and prepares students for an evolving global society.”
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calendar of events Fun and Entertainment
and watch as hundreds of boats make their way to the dam area where the fireworks are displayed. The beautiful fireworks and their reflection in the lake is a sight to behold. Mid-morning on the 4th, the creativity of many boat owners comes to life as the decorated boats gather at the Marina Bay. The parade then makes its way around the lake for all to see as the crowd on shore clap and wave their flags with appreciation. Every year decorated boats are over the top with creative and clever themes. At the conclusion of the parade prizes are
The 4th of July is the highlight of the summer at Johnson Lake and anticipation grows as the holiday approaches. The campgrounds are packed and residences are overflowing with friends and family visiting to enjoy the festivities. The Fireworks Committee has been working for months to raise funds for the fireworks and plan the big display. The Johnson Lake Chamber of Commerce has been busy organizing the Boat Parade. As darkness falls on the evening of the 3 rd of July, people gather from surrounding areas, campgrounds and neighborhoods
awarded by the Johnson Lake Chamber. As the day continues, you can see many boats anchor in the shallow water by the island as people enjoy music, wading, swimming and merriment! The aroma of hamburgers on the grills, sounds of firecrackers, laughter, speeding watercraft and splashing of the wakes on the shoreline combine to make yet another year of 4 th of July cherished memories with family and friends. Even Norman Rockwell would be envious of this special celebration at Johnson Lake.
May • Chamber Golf Outing/Banquet Memorial Day - Labor Day • Yard of the Week May 31 - June 1 • Community Garage Sales 2024 ELWOOD CALENDAR OF EVENTS July 25-27 • Gosper County Fair & Rodeo - The best little hometown, family friendly fair around. Our home-owned and volunteer run carnival is fun for kids and affordable for parents. FFA and 4-H events all days. Rodeo: Thursday & Friday. Carnival: Thursday, Friday, & Saturday. August • Farmers Market September • Team Jack Radiothon November 7 • Give Big Elwood December • Old Fashioned Christmas - See Santa, ride the Fire Truck, and enjoy business open houses and holiday events throughout beautiful Downtown Elwood. Watch for more Elwood Chamber updates at www.elwoodnebraska.com
2024 JOHNSON LAKE CALENDAR OF EVENTS Memorial Day Weekend Garage Sales around the lake, EMS 5-K Walk/Run and lunch, June • Craft Fairs, Farmers Markets, Annual Chamber Member Appreciation Concert June 8 • Artisan Market July • Craft Fairs, Farmers Markets July 4 • 4th of July Boat Annual Boat Parade 10 a.m.
Register at the Marina boat dock 9-10 a.m. July 5 • Light-Up–the-Lake Fireworks 10 p.m.
Watch for Johnson Lake Chamber updates at www.johnsonlake.org and on Facebook at Johnson Lake, NE-Chamber of Commerce
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elwood, nebraska Business Directory
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Elwood Auto Detail Elwood. ......................................................................................308-325-8680 Elwood Care Center Elwood. ......................................................................................308-785-3302 Elwood Clinic (part of LRHC) Elwood. ......................................................................................308-785-8175 Elwood Funeral Home Elwood. ......................................................................................308-785-2514 Elwood Hometown Cooperative Market Elwood. ......................................................................................308-785-2182 Elwood Public Library Elwood. ......................................................................................308-785-8155 Elwood Public Schools Elwood. ......................................................................................308-785-2491 Elwood Volunteer Fire Department Elwood. ......................................................................................402-380-5025 Empire Hay Inc. Elwood. ......................................................................................308-785-2051 Eustis Body Shop Eustis. .........................................................................................308-486-5515 Eustis Plumbing & Underground Eustis. .........................................................................................308-486-3391 - F - Fagot Refrigeration & Electric, Inc. Lexington..................................................................................308-324-4018 - G - Galloway Financial Advisors, Inc. Elwood. ......................................................................................308-785-8034 Gosper Co Senior Citizens Center Elwood. ......................................................................................308-785-2500 - H - Heartland Chevrolet Buick Lexington..................................................................................308-324-2306 Hi-Line Paint & Body LLC Elwood. ......................................................................................308-785-2101 House on the Hill B & B Elwood. ......................................................................................308-785-3828 - I - Idlewild Massage Elwood. ......................................................................................308-991-5936 - J - Jerrold A. Remmenga DDS, PC Lexington..................................................................................308-325-7475 Johnson Lake Area Chamber of Commerce Johnson Lake...........................................................................303-638-4458
007 Ranch Elwood. ......................................................................................308-440-2226 1st Methodist Church of Elwood/Bertrand Elwood. ......................................................................................308-785-2315 - A - Applied Communications Technology, Inc. Arapahoe...................................................................................308-962-7298 Avanti Salon/Smack N Smooch Elwood. ......................................................................................308-325-2669 - B - B & B Veterinary Services Elwood. ......................................................................................308-785-2722 Bader Insulation & Sandblasting Inc. Elwood. ......................................................................................308-325-3962 Berryman Funeral Homes Cozad..........................................................................................308-784-3000 Beverly Bogle Louthan, P.C. Elwood. ......................................................................................308-785-2550 BHA Real Estate Lexington..................................................................................308-324-5581 Black Hills Energy .......................................................................................................888-890-5554 Blue Moose Bertrand. ...................................................................................308-325-0751 Byrns Floorcovering & Installation Elwood. ......................................................................................308-785-2402 - C - Central NE Public Power & Irrigation Holdrege....................................................................................308-995-8601 Clear View Realty Alma/Elwood..........................................................................402-875-2156 Connecting Kidz Pediatric Therapy Elwood. ......................................................................................308-455-9025 - D - Dawson County Ag Society Lexington..................................................................................308-324-3600 DC Climate Control Services Cozad..........................................................................................308-325-3986 Dawson Public Power District Lexington..................................................................................308-324-2386 - E - Eclipse Staffing Elwood. ......................................................................................308-746-4553 Elwood Area Foundation Elwood. ......................................................................................308-785-8113
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