About five miles west of Kimball, The Flumes, also called the Maginnis Irrigation Aqueduct, are located on Highway 30 between the city limits and Oliver Reservoir. The aqueduct was built in 1912 as part of the Bay State Irrigation Canal to carry water across rugged terrain. This combination of irrigation function and challenging terrain brings the structure’s historic purpose to life. Check local access conditions before visiting.
Roads and Landscape
The roads also give Kimball County its own character. The Lincoln Highway passes through all three communities in Kimball County and was designated a National Scenic Byway in Nebraska in 2021. Interstate 80 crosses Kimball County from east to west. The two roads therefore differ in their orientation: the Lincoln Highway is notable for passing through the three communities and its designation, while I-80 is notable for the direction in which it crosses the county.
Panorama Point lies in the extreme southwest of Kimball County at 5,424 feet above sea level. On a clear day, it offers views of the Rocky Mountains to the southwest. Its elevation and views provide different points of reference: the elevation is a fixed figure, while the distant views depend on clear conditions.
Culture and Community
The restored Goodhand Theater in Kimball is run by volunteers. The Fraternal Hall in Kimball offers a different historical perspective: it was built in 1904 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A restored theater and a registered building thus represent distinct cultural landmarks.
The Kimball-Banner County Fair adds an annual celebration to these cultural venues, regarded as a longstanding tradition of community, agriculture and family entertainment. Its program includes livestock, horse, dog and small-animal shows. The 4-H Exhibit Hall also features cooking and other exhibits on household topics. The program thus combines agricultural shows with exhibits about cooking and domestic topics. Check dates and the program before traveling.
Prairie, Golf and a Multi-State Route
The Nebraska Tourism Commission’s group travel itinerary included a visit to the working EJE Ranch in Kimball County, where visitors could explore the High Plains shortgrass prairie and learn firsthand about this delicate ecosystem. Check current visiting options in advance.
Four Winds Golf Club offers a championship golf course, a driving range and putting greens. Check current conditions before playing.
The Antelope Stampede route offers a different, multi-state perspective: in 2025, it ran from Kimball, Nebraska, to Colorado, on to Wyoming and back to Nebraska. If you’re interested in a future edition, check whether it will take place again and what arrangements apply.
Camping at Oliver Reservoir
Oliver Reservoir has 48 sites for tents and RVs or other vehicles. Sites are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, and registration takes place upon arrival. Check availability and rules before setting out.
Discover more destinations: Kimball, Phelps County, Holt County, Sherman County, Buffalo County, Dawes County, Red Willow, Cedar County.
For the broader travel overview: Nebraska.
