I find it special that beyond the farmlands and wide-open roads, Nebraska’s state parks are full of wonder. I love how this state blends rolling hills, rugged rock formations, and peaceful lakes into outdoor spaces where families can roam free. I look forward to days that begin with a sunrise hike and end with campfire stories under a sky full of stars.
To me, Nebraska parks mean climbing dunes and fishing in quiet waters at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, hiking through pine-covered canyons at Indian Cave State Park, and swimming at the sandy beach of Lake McConaughy State Recreation Area. We always bring our bikes to Platte River State Park, where scenic trails, paddleboats, and a lookout tower offer something for everyone. Chadron State Park gives us a mountain feel with its forested trails and horseback rides, while Niobrara State Park brings wildlife sightings, river overlooks, and peaceful trails near the Missouri River. From prairie hikes to scenic overlooks, Nebraska’s parks offer families a chance to slow down and connect with the land and each other.
Unique Nebraska State Parks:
Agate Fossil Beds National Monument - 90 minutes from Scottsbluff, NE - See ancient fossils and walk along scenic trails on an unusual summer trip.
Arbor Lodge State Historical Park - 45 minutes from Omaha - Explore a historic mansion and admire gardens during a peaceful spring visit.
Ash Hollow State Historical Park - Discover pioneer history and look at wagon ruts on a quick educational stop.
Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historical Park - 1 hour from Norfolk - See preserved fossils and explore dig sites in this exciting outdoor attraction.
Blue River State Recreation - 45 minutes from Lincoln - Go boating or enjoy fishing on an easy, affordable weekend getaway.
Bluestem State Recreation Area - just 30 minutes from Lincoln - Camp lakeside and admire sunset views during a quiet retirement-friendly trip.
Bowring Ranch State Historical Park - Visit a working ranch and discover Nebraska’s political history on a quick stop.
Buffalo Bill Ranch State Park - Explore Buffalo Bill’s home and walk along scenic trails near the river.
Chadron State Park - Hike pine-covered hills and enjoy mountain views in Nebraska’s oldest state park.
Eugene T. Mahoney State Park - Go ziplining or relax in a cabin during a fun family weekend.
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)- • Agate Fossil Beds National Monument - 90 minutes from Scottsbluff, NE
- • Arbor Lodge State Historical Park - 45 minutes from Omaha
- • Ash Hollow State Historical Park
- • Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historical Park - 1 hour from Norfolk
- • Blue River State Recreation - 45 minutes from Lincoln
- • Bluestem State Recreation Area - just 30 minutes from Lincoln
- • Bowring Ranch State Historical Park
- • Buffalo Bill Ranch State Park
- • Chadron State Park
- • Eugene T. Mahoney State Park