Thanks for taking the time to visit our website. Here is a brief history of Merritt Trading Post’s beginnings:
Merritt Trading Post started out as a small bait shop. It had been located below the dam since shortly after the reservoir was impounded in 1964. It moved to its present location a few years later. In 1978, the Post was purchased by partners Jon Davenport, Dick Jeffers, and Cork Young. The business consisted of a store one-third its present size, one gas pump, a mouse-infested trailer, and two Sears & Roebuck Boats.
About a year later, Jon Davenport bought out his partners and expanded the resort. The store was enlarged and 16 cabins were gradually added. In 1999 the WatersEdge Restaurant and Lounge were completed along with a guest shower and laundry facility.
In March 2005, John and Regina Bauer purchased the resort and together with their children Stacy, Erin, and David, manage the business.
What is there to do?
“The University of Merritt” attracts a wide variety of outdoor sports enthusiasts. The area’s beautiful vistas, abundant fish and wildlife, unique geography and location off the beaten path are the main attractions.
There is always plenty to do and see at Merritt and the nearby public lands totaling over 200,000 acres no matter the season. Bird watching, geocaching, outdoor and nature photography, hiking, and mountain biking are just some of the activities. Night skies with near zero light pollution and low haze attract astronomers the world around. Mid-summer white, sugar sand beaches takeover Merritt’s 44 miles of shoreline and rival those found anywhere in the world.
The Nebraska Game & Parks Commission manages the lake’s 200+ campsites and 5 boat ramps. At the resort, we welcome families and outdoorsmen all year round for reunions, vacations and more! Our 15 rental cabins have 42 beds along with 7 reservable campsites with hook-ups which can accommodate large sized groups. Come experience a Sandhills vacation at The Merritt Trading Post.
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If you are looking for a reservation, please call 402.376.3437 for the fastest response possible. Looking for a fishing report? Head over to our Facebook page for our most recent photos and posts describing the bite!
Other questions or concerns? Drop us a line below.