Recreation at Hugh Butler Lake, Frenchman Cambridge Division, in southwestern Nebraska, is managed for the Bureau of Reclamation by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. The Frenchman Cambridge Division extends from Palisade southeast along Frenchman River and from Trenton east along the Republican River. Water stora
Maybe — confirm before you go.
Reclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
- Contact 308-345-5899 · Red.Willow@ngpc.ne.gov
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Hugh Butler Lake (Red Willow Reservoir State Recreation Area) — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — Reclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you fish at Hugh Butler Lake (Red Willow Reservoir State Recreation Area)?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Hugh Butler Lake (Red Willow Reservoir State Recreation Area). Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you camp at Hugh Butler Lake (Red Willow Reservoir State Recreation Area)?
Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.
Depends Can you have a campfire?
Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.
Depends Is hunting allowed?
Yes — hunting is permitted here in season, with the required state license and tags. Check seasons and unit rules.
Depends Is there winter recreation?
Yes — snow and winter activities are available seasonally. Check conditions and closures before you head out.
Yes Can you bring a dog?
Generally yes — dogs are welcome when kept under control (usually leashed). Confirm any local rules.
Depends Are drones allowed?
Sometimes — often allowed away from wilderness and developed or crowded areas, with rules. Check locally before you fly.
Nearby sites
Harry Strunk Lake (Medicine Creek State Park Recreation Area)
CheckReclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here.
Swanson Reservoir (Trenton Dam)
CheckReclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here.
