Encompassing 192 acres, Louisville State Recreation Area boasts five sandpit lakes with approximately 50 surface acres of water. Surrounded by towering cottonwood trees, this inviting area offers picnicking, swimming, fishing, non-power boating, canoe access to the Platte River and a brand new floating playground. Paddle board, water bike and kayak rentals are also available. These amenities, along with the area’s close proximity to Platte River State Park, have made Louisville SRA a favorite spot among outdoor enthusiasts in the eastern part of the state.
Attractions
Fishing
Anglers will find bass, catfish, bluegill and crappie in all five sandpit lakes.
Floating playground
The brand new floating playground offers exciting and challenging obstacles including a climbing wall, dome, monkey bars and much more on Lake #2.
Boating
Only non-powered and electric boats are permitted at Louisville State Recreation Area. Boats of any kind are prohibited in the beach area at Lake No. 2, where swimming is allowed.
Swimming
One swimming beach on Lake No. 2 is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. No lifeguard is on duty. Change houses are available near the beach.
Picnicking
Louisville is a popular spot for day use and picnicking. The area has 385 picnic tables, 276 grills, five shelters and one shelter with electricity.
Trails
Two miles of scenic hiking and biking trails wind through the park. These are especially striking during the autumn months. Cross country skiing is popular during the winter when there’s adequate snow cover.
Canoeing
Lousiville State Recreation Area offers canoe access to the Platte River, as well as a special canoe campsite on the river.
Camping
RV and tent camping
Louisville State Recreation Area is very popular with RVers and offers 223 camping pads with 20-, 30- and 50-amp electrical hookups, as well as 13 camping pads without electricity and an additional 47 non-pad sites without electricity. Newly upgraded camping facilities include showers and restrooms. Campers also have access to water, a dump station and a playground for children.
