Merritt Reservoir is a 3,000-acre lake on the Snake River in Cherry County, southwest of Valentine, with about 44 miles of sandy shoreline in the Sandhills.
We rent MasterCraft wakesurf boats, Sea-Doo jet skis and water toys on Merritt Reservoir, and everything is ready for you at the lake. Add a captained charter with lessons for every level.
A state recreation area on the east side and famously dark night skies make it a one-of-a-kind lake trip.
Boat, jet ski and water toy rentals at Merritt Reservoir
Just show up and ride — your boat, jet skis and gear are ready at Merritt Reservoir with no towing required.
- Wakesurf and ski boat rentals – MasterCraft boats seating 10 to 18, set up for a full day of surfing, skiing and tubing on Merritt Reservoir.
- Sea-Doo rentals – rent a single jet ski or several for your group's day on Merritt Reservoir.
- Boat tours with a driver – great for celebrations, families and anyone who wants surf or ski lessons on Merritt Reservoir.
- Water toys – tubes, lily pads, water trampolines, paddle boards and more to keep the whole group busy.
Book Now or call or text 1-888-594-6610 – we answer 7 a.m.–10 p.m. every day.
Merritt Reservoir at a glance
| Location | Cherry County |
|---|---|
| Size | About 3,000 acres |
| Shoreline | About 44 miles, sandy |
| River | Snake River |
| Nearby | Valentine |
| Known for | Dark skies and sandy beaches |
Best things to do on Merritt Reservoir
- Wakesurfing – calm mornings.
- Jet skiing – explore the coves.
- Stargazing – one of the darkest skies around.
- Valentine – Niobrara River trips nearby.
Where to launch at Merritt Reservoir
- Public ramps – state recreation area ramps.
Summer weekends are busy, so start early. Your rental from us is ready at the lake.
Tips for a great day on Merritt Reservoir
- Mornings are calmest for surfing.
- Display an orange flag when towing in Nebraska.
- Afternoon wind builds on open prairie lakes.
Nebraska boating rules to know
- Every boat must carry a wearable life jacket for each person. Children 12 and under must wear one on board, and everyone on a jet ski or being towed must wear one.
- Display an orange flag when you’re pulling skiers or tubers.
- On a jet ski equipped with a lanyard-type engine cut-off, the driver must wear it.
Map of Merritt Reservoir
Merritt Reservoir rental & boating FAQ
What can I rent at Merritt Reservoir?
Premium MasterCraft surf and ski boats, Sea-Doo jet skis, tubes, lily pads and paddle boards, and captained boat tours with lessons.
Do I need a truck to tow the boat?
No. Your boat or jet skis are ready for you at Merritt Reservoir, so there's no towing.
Where is Merritt Reservoir?
In Cherry County, southwest of Valentine, Nebraska.
Can you jet ski on Merritt Reservoir?
Yes. Jet skiing, waterskiing, wakeboarding and wakesurfing are all popular on Merritt Reservoir.
How big is Merritt Reservoir?
About 3,000 acres with about 44 miles of sandy shoreline.
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