Box Butte Reservoir is a 1,600-acre lake located in the Nebraska panhandle, 9 miles north of Hemingford. The reservoir offers diverse paddling opportunities with its rocky bottoms, aquatic vegetation, and occasionally flooded timber. Water quality is excellent, providing clear clear conditions that may surprise paddlers expecting muddy Nebraska lakes.

Two boat ramps with docks are available for launching, including a two-lane concrete ramp in the northeast corner off Box Butte State Recreation Area Road. All types of boating are permitted, so paddlers should be aware of motorized traffic.

The reservoir is known for its fishing, with northern pike, walleye, bass, channel catfish, and various panfish species present. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, particularly for birdwatchers. Notable species spotted include Say's Phoebes, Ferruginous Hawks, Eastern Bluebirds, and Indigo Buntings.

Water levels fluctuate due to irrigation needs, which can impact paddling conditions. During full pool, paddlers can explore shallow coves in the river end as well as deeper open water. The lake's hard, rocky bottom creates interesting shoreline features to investigate.

Facilities include four picnic shelters, 40 tables, and 29 grills shaded by cottonwoods and willows. A swimming beach is available, though no lifeguards are on duty. Camping options include 14 electrical sites and 40 primitive sites.

Spring and fall typically offer the best paddling, as summer can bring dense aquatic vegetation. Ice fishing is popular in winter, so paddlers should avoid early and late season trips when ice may be present.