Burwell, Nebraska: Rodeo Capital Meets Hunting Destination

Burwell, population roughly 1,100, is known across Nebraska as the Rodeo Capital. The annual Nebraska's Big Rodeo has been running since 1921 and draws thousands every July. But come fall, Burwell transforms into a different kind of destination. Calamus Reservoir, Sandhills ranch country, and a growing number of outfitter operations make this Garfield County town a legitimate hunting hub.

The Town

Burwell sits at the southern edge of the Sandhills where the landscape transitions from the rolling dunes to the more agricultural Loup River valleys. The town has a proud ranching heritage and a community that genuinely welcomes hunters. Main Street has the essentials: a grocery store, gas stations, and a few shops. The atmosphere is friendly and unhurried.

Where to Eat

Calamus Lodge serves as both a motel and the town's go-to bar and grill. The menu is straightforward and filling, which is exactly what you want after a day in the field. Burgers, steaks, and cold beer are the staples. A few other small restaurants and convenience stops in town round out the options. Do not expect fine dining, but do expect generous portions and genuine hospitality.

Where to Stay

Calamus Lodge is the most convenient option for hunters, offering motel rooms alongside its restaurant and bar. For a more immersive experience, Calamus Outfitters provides guided hunting packages with lodging at their ranch property. The Rowse 1+1 Ranch, which has been operating continuously since 1923, offers ranch-stay accommodations and hunting access on private land. Calamus Reservoir State Recreation Area also has camping facilities.

Where to Hunt

Calamus Reservoir is an 8-mile-long lake that draws waterfowl during migration and provides bank-side habitat for whitetail and upland birds. The surrounding state recreation area offers walk-in access to grassland and timber.

The Sandhills country north of Burwell is prime deer territory. Both whitetail and mule deer inhabit the rolling grass dunes, cedar-filled valleys, and ranch-country fence lines. Calamus Outfitters offers guided hunts on thousands of acres of private Sandhills ranch land for those who want a more structured experience.

Garfield County also holds strong populations of sharp-tailed grouse and prairie chicken in the native grasslands. The county is sparsely populated, which keeps hunting pressure consistently low.

Why Burwell Deserves Your Attention

Burwell offers a hunting experience rooted in authentic Nebraska ranch culture. The town is small enough that you will know the bartender by name after one night, but it has enough infrastructure to keep you comfortable for a week-long trip. The combination of Calamus Reservoir, surrounding Sandhills habitat, and established outfitter operations makes Burwell a reliable destination for deer, waterfowl, and upland birds.