The state's largest lake celebrated the Fourth of July with some of its biggest crowds in years.

Lake Superintendent Ty Grafford said an average of 31,000 people a day visited the lake for four days. Typically, Grafford expects about 26,000 people per day over the July 4 holiday.

Grafford said he thinks the high gas prices encouraged many families to stay longer at the lake instead of visiting several destinations over the long weekend.

The level of water in the lake is at its highest level in five years.

Last month, the Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District said Lake McConaughy was filled to 46 percent capacity.

Grafford said beach goers told him the higher water levels made it more enjoyable.