In Phelps County, recreation isn’t just something you do. Its part of the rhythm of life. Whether you’re looking for friendly competition, peaceful time outdoors, or a place for your kids to burn off energy, this corner of south-central Nebraska offers more ways to play than you might expect.
Don Sjogren Community YMCA (ymcaoftheprairie.org)
Start with one of the community’s biggest hubs for activity: the Don Sjogren Community YMCA. More than just a gym, it’s a year-round gathering place. Inside, you’ll find an indoor pool, full exercise facility, and space for everything from pickup basketball games to group fitness classes. The YMCA also anchors several annual events that draw participants from across the region, including the popular Silver Run in June and a youth volleyball tournament each October. It’s the kind of place where wellness and community go hand in hand.
North Park Lake
If you prefer fresh air and open skies, Phelps County delivers in every season. North Park in Holdrege is a local favorite, with its tennis courts offering space for both tennis and the ever-growing sport of pickleball. Just steps away, North Park Lake provides a quieter pace. Stocked with trout, it’s an ideal spot for fishing, kayaking, or simply taking a walk along the water as the Nebraska breeze rolls in.
Holdrege County Club and Hi-Line golf courses
Golfers have plenty to celebrate here, too. The Holdrege Country Club features a beautiful course that challenges experienced players while remaining welcoming to newcomers. Throughout the year, it hosts a variety of tournaments, including the well-known invitation-only Cattlemen’s Classic. Visit the HCC’s website for a full list of golf tournaments
Just a short drive away, the Hi-Line Golf Course in Bertrand adds another quality course to the mix, along with its own slate of tournaments that keep the competitive spirit alive.
Baseball/Softball
Team sports are another cornerstone of recreation in the county. Summer evenings come alive at the Phelps County Fairgrounds, where Legion Baseball games bring families and fans together under the lights. There’s something timeless about watching a game on a warm night, with the crack of the bat and the hum of conversation in the stands. And the future is bright for athletes of all ages. A new four-plex baseball and softball complex is opening this summer in Holdrege right across from the Holdrege Country Club. It’s an investment not just in sports, but in community pride and regional draw. Bertrand and Loomis also boast inviting baseball/softball fields for summer competitions.
Bowling and Sand Volleyball
For those who like a little variety, Phelps County doesn’t disappoint. Gutterz Fun Center offers bowling leagues, family-friendly fun, and even sand volleyball courts for those who want to mix things up.
Swimming and Pool fun
When the Nebraska sun turns up the heat, the Holdrege Swimming Pool and the Bertrand Aquatic Center quickly become the place to be. They’re hubs of summer energy and memory-making. Kids race down water slides, splash through interactive features, and test their courage on diving boards, while younger swimmers enjoy shallow play areas designed just for them.
Running and 5Ks
Runners and walkers can mark their calendars for a trio of 5K events spread throughout the year: the Lost Way 5K in April, the Silver Run in June, and the festive Santa Sleigh 5K in December. Each one offers a chance to stay active while connecting with neighbors and friends.
Hunting
And when fall arrives, recreation takes on a different form. Hunting opportunities on public lands, including the renowned Funk Waterfowl Production Area, draw outdoor enthusiasts eager to experience one of Nebraska’s premier natural habitats.
In Phelps County, recreation isn’t limited to one place or one season. It’s woven into everyday life—from early morning workouts to late-night ballgames, from quiet lakeside moments to the cheers of a tournament crowd.
