Cunningham Lake

Glenn Cunningham Lake is a 117-acre urban reservoir located in the recreational corridor of northwest Omaha, Nebraska, roughly seven miles north of downtown at 11801 Glenn Cunningham Drive. The lake occupies a broad natural bowl in the rolling terrain of North Omaha's outer suburbs, with wooded hillsides on the eastern bank and open grassland bordering the western shore. The designated swimming area sits along the southern bank, with a mixed sand-and-gravel bottom and shallow wading depth appropriate for families. Water clarity is moderate — typical of a flatland urban lake — with a greenish tint common through much of the summer.

The beach atmosphere at Cunningham Lake is decidedly local and neighborhood-oriented. Operated by the City of Omaha Parks, Recreation and Public Property Department, the lake draws a steady stream of families, joggers, dog walkers, and casual anglers from the surrounding Millard and Benson neighborhoods throughout the week rather than the concentrated weekend surges seen at state recreation areas farther from the city. Fishing from the bank is popular, with channel catfish, largemouth bass, and bluegill present in the lake. Hiking and walking trails encircle most of the 117-acre water body, providing a pleasant loop of roughly two miles through mixed grassland and deciduous woodland habitat.

For visitors without a vehicle, Metro Transit Route 7 stops at the intersection of 108th Street and Maple Street, approximately 1.5 miles from the lake on foot. Most visitors arrive by personal vehicle via Glenn Cunningham Drive. Importantly, no entry permit or day fee is required — Cunningham Lake functions as a City of Omaha public park with free access year-round. This free admission, combined with varied recreational options and easy proximity to the metro, makes Cunningham Lake a practical warm-weather destination for Omaha residents seeking a quick outdoor outing without leaving the city.