Parks

OGALLALA, Neb. — In registering visitors for campsites, Nebraska’s largest reservoir sailed uncharted waters in 2021. The predominant verdict is that it was a highly successful voyage. Last April, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission implemented changes needed to create a safer, family-friendly environment at the 22-mile-long Lake McConaughy and the smaller reservoir below its dam, Lake Ogallala. One change was requiring reservations during the peak season for camping at the two state recreation areas. The new system, largely implemented …

It’s winter. The daylight is short. The nights are long and dreary. Air temperatures outside are cold, downright frigid at times. Most likely, there’s some snow cover. We are all spending more a lot of time indoors this season, aren’t we? It is that time of year when we get that cooped-up, restless, nothing-to-do feeling that is referred to as “cabin fever.” Stuck inside, too many of us get weary and lethargic and spend long, endless hours watching TV re-runs, …

LINCOLN, Neb. – Kathryn Romine of Lincoln became a big advocate for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s Your Parks Adventure challenge this year. “I really like the spirit of adventure and the opportunity to get out and see places I never get a chance to see,” Romine said. “I’m always up for getting out and hitting the road.” She and her friend visited several state parks and recreation areas across Nebraska, many for the first time, taking part in …

A Great Time to Observe Nature Anyone can hike on a warm day, surrounded by birdsong and verdant meadows of wildflowers. The world is full of sights and sounds. But in the winter? That sounds ridiculous. It’s cold outside, the plants are all brown and animals are either hibernating or vacationing in warmer places. What are you supposed to do, tromp through the snow, bundled up like that one kid in that one movie? Well, yes. Whether you explore the …

LINCOLN, Neb. — Nebraska is more than cows and corn — and really may be for everyone after all. The state will get its Discovery Channel debut Jan. 8 when RV There Yet? airs episode two, “Not just Cows and Corn,” featuring Arbor Lodge State Historical Park, Platte River State Park and Chadron State Park. The new reality show comes just at the right time. State and national parks saw record levels of visitors in the past few years, with …

LINCOLN, Neb. – Low water levels along the Missouri River have prompted the closure of the Indian Cave State Park boat ramp in southeast Nebraska. The park near Shubert has one concrete boat ramp offering access to the river. At this time, water levels are too low for safe use. Daily water level fluctuations will occur, but low water conditions likely will continue through the winter. Boat operators should use caution loading, unloading and navigating the river at other access …

Tucked away in a sandstone outcropping in Jefferson County is an oddity that will amaze anyone who visits: a rock-cut tomb carved by hand a century ago. Nelson McDowell was reportedly a colorful character. And if you visit the “mausoleum” he carved out of a sandstone cliff overlooking Rose Creek in Jefferson County, and later learn that it may have simply been a hobby to keep him busy and in good health rather than a place he intended to be …

LINCOLN, Neb. — Nebraska state parks will be offering a variety of events throughout the month of December. Find an event near you to celebrate the festive season. To stay informed about additional holiday events as they are scheduled, visit calendar.outdoornebraska.gov. Lewis and Clark SRA Tree Decorating Contest LINCOLN, Neb. — Put your tree decorating skills to the test for a chance to win a two-night cabin stay at Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area near Crofton. The contest is …

LINCOLN, Neb. – Enjoy family-friendly Omaha magician Ryan Chandler as he performs at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park on Nov. 27 for the first of several dates. Chandler, who has appeared on television with magicians Penn and Teller, will perform at 3 p.m. at Kountze Memorial Theater. Other performances will be Dec. 18, 3 p.m.; Jan. 1, 5 p.m.; Feb. 12, 3 p.m.; March 12, 3 p.m.; April 1, 7 p.m.; and May 1, 3 p.m. Admission is $10 for …

After 47 years of service, including nine years serving as director of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Jim Douglas is retiring. He has celebrated a lifetime of conservation accomplishments. “Ask yourself what kind of world you want to live in and leave for your kids,” said Director Jim Douglas, a statement that says so much about what he has accomplished during his 47 years in conservation. For the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, he has served in a variety …