FREQUENTLY ASKED questions

​Have questions? We’ve got answers! Here’s everything you need to know before your lake adventure. 
​We want your day on the water to be fun, easy, and stress‑free. 
🏞 Park Access & Permits
  • Do I need a park permit? Yes! Lake McConaughy requires a Nebraska State Park permit (daily or annual). You can grab one online or at the Martin Bay kiosks. Getting it ahead of time makes your arrival way easier.


🚤 Boater Safety Requirements
  • Do I need a boater safety card?
    • Born on or after Jan 1, 1986 → Yes, you need a boater safety card.
    • Born before 1986 → No boater safety card needed; bring a valid U.S. driver’s license. (Heads‑up: international licenses aren’t accepted.)
  • Are out‑of‑state cards valid? Absolutely. Any U.S. state’s card works.
  • How long is the card valid? For life. No renewal needed.
  • Do I need to show proof? Yes — digital or physical is fine.
  • Do passengers need a card? No. Just the driver.
  • Where can I get a boater safety card? There are several easy options available online. You can complete your certification through trusted providers such as boat-ed.com or boaterexam.com. You can also check your home state’s Game & Parks website (or equivalent agency), as many states offer their own approved boating safety courses and certifications.


📅 Reservations, Charges & Cancellations
  • Is it recommended to make a reservation? Yes! We definitely recommend booking ahead — especially during busy summer weekends. Reserving at least 2 weeks in advance gives you the best chance of getting the watercraft and time slot you want. We do also accept walk-ins and same day rentals if we have availability.
  • Do you charge a deposit? Yes. A $100 deposit is charged 7 days before your reservation and goes toward your total rental cost. If you cancel after the deposit has been charged, the deposit becomes non‑refundable.
  • Is fuel included? Fuel is not included. Every watercraft leaves with a full tank, and we refill it when you return. You’ll only be charged for the fuel you used 
  • What’s your cancellation policy? Plans change — we get it. Cancel 8+ days before your rental for a refund. Cancellations within 7 days are non‑refundable.


🚚 Equipment & Launching
  • Do I need to tow or trailer anything? Nope! We handle all launching at our beach location. Just show up and hop on.
  • Do you give route suggestions? Absolutely. We’ll point out calm coves, fun spots, and great places to explore.
  • What if I need help on the water? Give us a call. Our friendly team members can provide support over the phone and dispatch a beach team member if more advanced support is needed for any challenges or questions related to our equipment.​​


👥 Passenger Limits
  • How many people can I bring? Each boat has a Coast Guard–approved passenger and weight limit. Please follow both — they’re for your safety. Pets count toward the limit, and kids can’t replace adults in the count.


🧒 Kids & Families
  • Are children allowed? Absolutely!
  • Do you have infant/toddler life jackets? Yes — we offer a full range of sizes.
  • Can kids tube or ski? Yes, as long as they meet safety requirements and feel comfortable.


🐾 Pet Policy
  • Can I bring my dog? Yes! Select tritoons are pet‑friendly (limit: 2 dogs). Ski boats and jet skis are not pet‑friendly. Our non-pet friendly options are pet-allergen free. 


🍽 Food, Drinks & Coolers
  • Can I bring food and drinks? For sure. Please just avoid stain‑happy drinks (like red punch) and clean up spills.
  • Can I bring a cooler or grill? Coolers are totally fine. Grills can ride along but must be used only on the beach and fully cooled before coming back aboard.
  • Is alcohol allowed? No. Lake McConaughy is a dry lake — no alcohol anywhere in the park. However, the area has several awesome bars and restaurants nearby, giving you safe, enjoyable places to unwind after your lake adventure.


🦺 Life Jackets & Safety Gear
  • Can I bring my own life jackets? Yes! We also provide jackets at no extra cost.
  • What sizes do you have? Everything from infant to 4X/6X. Pick them up at the beach at check‑in.


🕒 Time Zone & Connectivity
  • What time zone are you in? Mountain Time (same as Denver).
  • Which cell carriers work best? Verizon and Viaero. Other carriers may show Central Time because of tower locations.


⏱ Timing, Extensions & Late Arrivals
  • Can I extend my rental? If availability allows, we’re happy to extend your rental. Just give us a call.
  • What if I arrive late? Your rental time begins at the scheduled start time. We recommend arriving early to check in and get settled.


🌦 Weather Policy
  • What if the weather is bad? Your safety comes first. If conditions are unsafe, we will not send out watercraft and you’ll receive a refund. If weather changes during your rental, early returns may be refunded on a case‑by‑case basis.


🎿 Water Sports & Equipment
  • Do you offer wakeboards? Not currently. We offer water skis and tubes for towing behind boats. Jet skis cannot tow.
  • Pontoon vs. Tritoon — what’s the difference?
    • Pontoon: 2 toons
    • Tritoon: 3 toons → more stability, smoother ride, better for towing
  • Can I tube or ski behind a tritoon? Yes. Our 115hp and 150hp tritoons are great for towing.
  • Can I bring my own tube or skis? Yes. You can use your own gear behind boats. Towing behind jet skis is not allowed.


🧽 Damage, Cleaning & Responsibility
  • What if I accidentally damage the boat or jet ski? We understand accidents happen. Any damage will be assessed upon return, and repair costs may apply.
  • Do I need to clean the boat before returning it? A quick tidy‑up is appreciated — please remove trash and personal items. No deep cleaning required.
  • Is insurance available? We do not offer insurance at this time. Renters are responsible for any damage that occurs during their rental.
 
Still have questions? Give us a call — we’re happy to help! 
​📞(308) 726‑RENT (7368) or (308) 726‑5205