| Atkinson Lake State Recreation Area's original lake impoundment built in 1894 by the Atkinson Milling & Irrigation Company & was operated for milling purposes & hydroelectric generation until 1929 when high H2O washed out the dam. In 1947, the city of Atkinson deeded the dam to the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission. In 1949, the Game & Parks rebuilt the structure but in the early 60's high H2O washed out the dam again & a third time in 1984 reducing it to just a stream.
In 1991, a joint effort between local people & the Upper Elkhorn Natural Resources District, Nebraska Game & Parks Commission, Nebraska Department of Water Resources & the United States Army Corps of Engineers made it possible for the reconstruction of the Atkinson Dam. The lake was deepened & the overall size is approximately 14 surface acres. The Game & Parks has stocked the lake with bluegill, largemouth bass & channel catfish.
In 1978, the Game & Parks bought approximately two acres of land which was an easement agreement in the 1950's. The recreation area at present takes in approximately 50 acres. |
Campground: Atkinson Lake State Recreation Area in Bassett Nebraska *