See Our State: Summer Getaways
No matter where you're traveling in Nebraska, you'll discover all kinds of nature escapes, outdoor playgrounds and summer getaways across the state.
Northwest
Ash Hollow State Historical Park
Lewellen
Visit Ash Hollow State Historical Park, which once served as a prominent stop along the Oregon and California Trails. As you explore the park’s four trails, you might spot the ruts of pioneers’ covered wagons. Stop by the Visitor Center to learn more about pioneer and Native American history.
Riverside Discovery Center
Scottsbluff
Plan a visit to Riverside Discovery Center. The zoo is home to 170 animals and all kinds of interactive experiences and attractions for kids, including a splash pad, petting zoo, playground and Dino Dig.
Fort Robinson State Park
Crawford
The opportunities are endless at the 22,000-acre Fort Robinson State Park. Hike or bike the park’s expansive trail system. The park’s 10 ponds and freshwater streams are prime for anglers. Explore the park on horseback or take a jeep or stagecoach tour. Don’t want to leave? The park offers 130 campsites and historic lodging in the former soldiers’ quarters.
Southwest
Dusty Trails
North Platte
Book an adventure with Dusty Trails. Choose from a variety of experiences, like horseback riding, wagon rides, kayaking, canoeing, tanking and sandhill crane viewing tours. Stop by in October for some fall fun at Dusty’s Pumpkin Fest at the Cody’s.
Red Willow Reservoir State Recreation Area
McCook
Calling all water lovers! Red Willow Reservoir State Recreation Area features a 1,628-acre lake perfect for boating, swimming, fishing and more water recreation. The area is also a popular destination for rabbit, deer and pheasant hunting.
Potter’s Pasture Mountain Bike Trail
Brady
Potter’s Pasture is a mountain biker’s paradise. Trek through 100 miles of native grasslands, canyons, tree groves and hills across this 1,200-acre site.
South Central
Willa Cather Memorial Prairie
Red Cloud
If you’re traveling near Red Cloud, make time for a stop at Willa Cather Memorial Prairie. Spend time hiking the trails at this 612-acre never-been-plowed Nebraska prairie. It’s an excellent spot for sunrise, sunset and dark sky viewing. Don't forget to bring your binoculars for birding, too.
Island Oasis Water Park
Grand Island
The kiddos will love making a splash at Island Oasis Water Park. Featuring four giant water slides, a 350,000-gallon wave pool, two speed slides, a 750-foot lazy river and all kinds of games and activities, Island Oasis offers an unforgettable water park experience.
Kearney Water Trail
Kearney
Drop into the Kearney Water Trail for an exciting kayaking or canoeing adventure. The 2.3-mile trail includes white water features recently installed for all skill levels.
Southeast
Whiskey Run Creek Winery and Distillery
Brownville
Escape to Whiskey Run Creek Winery and Distillery to sample a variety of wines and spirits. Sample five wines for just $5. Then, sit back and enjoy a glass on the outdoor deck or in the loft of a century-old barn.
Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center
Denton
Get back to nature at the 850-acre Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center. Part of the National Audubon Society, this tallgrass prairie sanctuary offers more than four miles of walking trails. Plus, the center is popular for birdwatching, as over 235 species have been spotted here.
Adventure Golf Center
Lincoln
Take the kids to Adventure Golf Center for the ultimate mini-golf experience. With two 18-hole outdoor courses, batting cages and tasty shaved ice treats, Adventure Golf is fun for the whole family.
Metro
Two Rivers State Recreation Area
Waterloo
Whether it’s fishing, hunting, hiking or boating, you can play your way at Two Rivers State Recreation Area. Extend your stay at one of over 200 camping pads or book a stay in the unique glamping cabins fashioned from 10 Union Pacific cabooses.
Fontenelle Forest
Bellevue
Spend the day exploring Fontenelle Forest. Hike the trails of this 2,100-acre natural playground — and keep your eyes peeled for wildlife! The Nature Center also features an exhibit with numerous species of rescued birds of prey. The treetop zip lines and aerial courses at TreeRush Adventures are a must for adventure seekers.
Lauritzen Gardens and Kenefick Park
Omaha
Lauritzen Gardens and Kenefick Park is perfect for garden lovers. Stroll 100 acres of themed gardens, horticultural displays and indoor tropical gardens and floral exhibits.
Northeast
Railside Green Arboretum
Schuyler
Once an abandoned railroad, Railside Green Arboretum is now home to dozens of trees, shrubs, bushes and other plant life. Enjoy a peaceful stroll down the walking trail of this 3-acre site.
Grove Lake Wildlife Management Area
Royal
Plan a hunting or fishing trip to Grove Lake Wildlife Management. This 2,000-acre site is perfect for pheasant, deer, quail and turkey hunting. Plus, the 50-acre lake is popular with anglers.
Boyer Chute National Wildlife Refuge
Fort Calhoun
Discover the restored floodplain habitats along the Missouri River at Boyer Chute National Wildlife Refuge. Enjoy six miles of hiking trails and excellent fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities at this peaceful nature escape.
Sandhills
Calamus Reservoir State Recreation Area
Burwell
With over 10,000 acres, Calamus Reservoir State Recreation Area is one of the state's most popular nature escapes. The 5,123-acre lake welcomes all kinds of water recreation, while the surrounding land is just right for picnicking, birding and camping.
Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area
Valentine
Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area is the perfect getaway for fishing and boating experiences. The area is one of the nation’s best spots for stargazing. Plan to overnight at one of the campsites, which can accommodate electric plus, electric and basic camping.
Niobrara National Scenic River
Valentine
How about some river recreation at the Niobrara National Scenic River? Float downstream in your kayak or canoe and take in the beautiful Sandhills scenery, including over 200 waterfalls.
