Merritt Reservoir is located 26 miles southwest of Valentine in Nebraska's Sandhills region. The lake offers paddling opportunities in a picturesque valley setting along the Snake River. White sandy beaches line much of the shoreline, providing numerous access points. The reservoir has five boat ramps and seven docks spread across areas like Powder Horn, Main, Beed's Landing, and Snake River.

Paddlers should be aware that water levels can fluctuate significantly, with recent reports indicating rapidly dropping levels exposing more shoreline. The lake is known for its clear water and lack of silty buildup common in other reservoirs. Algae blooms may occur in late summer, giving the water a pea-green tint at times.

Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with coyotes, deer, and various bird species frequently spotted. The lake hosts annual migrations of sandhill cranes, snow geese, and piping plovers. Paddlers may encounter walleye, crappie, bass, and catfish in the waters.

Merritt Reservoir offers 200 picnic tables and 8 picnic shelters for day use. Camping is available at several campgrounds around the lake, with both electrical and non-electrical sites. Modern restrooms, showers, and a dump station are provided for campers.

The area is known for its dark night skies, hosting an annual star party that may interest paddlers planning overnight trips. Nearby attractions include Smith Falls State Park, the scenic Niobrara River, and McKelvie National Forest.

Paddlers should note that the lake can experience significant wind, potentially creating challenging conditions. Late summer sees cooler temperatures, with daytime highs dropping from the 90s to 70s and nighttime lows near 50°F.