Historical attractions, stunning vistas and an abundance of summer recreation are just some of the attributes that make the State of Nebraska worthy of a spot on a camper's itinerary. Of course there are the stellar state campgrounds as well. Here's a quick peek at five of the state's best ones:
Indian Cave State Park
Indiana Cave State Park is located outside of Barada. It features basic, partially enhanced and equestrian friendly campsites. What I love about this park are the hiking trails, the cave, its history and the boating opportunities. Some of the trails are sweat breakers and the cave has interesting petroglyphs. The park is also the site of the ghost town, St. Deroin. My favorite St. Deroin story has to do with the hapless angler John Ritter. His ethereal form is said to still walk the park in search of his arm. Talk about a perfect campfire story!
Ponca State Park
Ponca State Park is located outside of Ponca. It features moderately enhanced and basic campsites. The park's best attributes include interesting programs, guided horseback riding trips, a 9-hole golf course, a swimming pool and superlative fishing. I should also mention that on clear days the park's overlook area offers excellent tri-state views. There are also plenty of opportunities to catch a glimpse of the park's wildlife. As such, I'd definitely suggest that campers bring their binoculars and a camera.
Niobrara State Park
Niobrara State Park is located outside of Niobrara. It features basic and moderately improved campsites. The park's historical attributes are what makes it stand out in my book. There is an interesting paleontological site, an old cemetery and several monuments onsite. The park also offers campers opportunities for fishing, boating, hiking, biking and horseback riding.
Chadron State Park
Chadron State Park is located outside of Chadron. It features moderately improved and rustic campsites. There is a swimming pool onsite as well as sports courts and a handful of trails. The boating opportunities are also worth a mention.
Fort Robinson State Park
Fort Robinson State Park is located outside of Crawford. It features primitive, enhanced and equestrian welcoming campsites. The park features over 60 miles of trails, a pool, two museums, a nature center, boating opportunities and more. I'd suggest that dinosaur lovers check out the Trailside Museum. There is a really interesting display featuring a pair of bull mammoths that died attached to each other. The Post Playhouse, Repertory Theater and the Fort Robinson Museum are worth a visit as well.
Killeen Gonzalez enjoys summer sports and recreation with her family. She has also traveled extensively.
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