Chalco Hills Recreation Area

Chalco Hills Recreation Area is managed by the Papio-Missouri River Natural Resources District and sits in southwest Omaha, with its main entrance at 154th Street and Giles Road. Wehrspann Lake, a flood-control reservoir of about 245 acres, is surrounded by roughly 940 acres of green space. The park is best known for its trails. The NRD describes more than nine miles of hiking and biking paths, including a 4.5-mile north loop and a 7.2-mile full loop around the lake.

The trails also link into Omaha's wider bike network and the nearby Prairie View Recreation Area. Wehrspann Lake is a no-wake lake with a boat ramp, and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission stocks it with fish such as largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish and crappie. The NRD encourages catch and release, and a minimum length applies to bass. Other facilities include a large playground, a dog park, restrooms, picnic areas and a group shelter that holds about 100 people and can be reserved.

The grounds also include the NRD's Natural Resources Center, which houses several conservation agencies. The area suits active travelers, families with kids and anyone who wants a long, scenic walk or ride without leaving the metro area. Early mornings and evenings are the most comfortable times in summer.

Highlights

• 245-acre Wehrspann Lake
• 4.5-mile and 7.2-mile trail loops
• Fishing with a boat ramp
• Playground
• Dog park
• Reservable group shelter

Tips for your visit

• The NRD lists the park as open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• The lake is no-wake; catch and release is encouraged.
• Restrooms are spread along the trail system.
• Check the NRD website for reservations and current conditions.