Hudson Lake, 15 miles southwest of Valentine, will not be open to the public for ice fishing this winter. 

The lake was formerly part of the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s Open Fields and Waters Program, a voluntary program designed to increase public walk-in access for hunting, trapping and/or fishing across the state.

Properties open for access are listed in the Nebraska Public Access Atlas, which is available in print or at OutdoorNebraska.gov by searching “Public Access Atlas.”

The digital version is updated year-round to reflect current access opportunities. Anglers hoping to ice fish near Valentine can find properties nearby, including Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area, Big Alkali Lake Wildlife Management Area and lakes on the Valentine National Wildlife Refuge.

For more information, contact Shelley Steffl, Game and Parks biologist, at 308-430-3977 or [email protected].

Catch these Game and Parks education events in December

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission educators have scheduled interesting and engaging events for the curious in December.

Don’t forget to purchase a vehicle park entry permit to enter the state parks, except one is not required to park in the Schramm Education Center parking lot. Get one at OutdoorNebraska.gov or at state park entrances.

Little Saplings program at Schramm

Adults looking to explore the outdoors with their young children are invited to Little Saplings, a monthly early childhood nature discovery program at Schramm Education Center near Gretna.

The 2024 series, which occurs the first Wednesday of the month, continues Dec. 4 with the theme Turtles at 9 and 10 a.m. It is designed for children ages 2-5 and their adult caregivers. The cost is $4 per child and $5 per adult.

See the calendar event entry at Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov for more information.

‘The Science of …’ virtual webinar series continues

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s virtual webinar series “The Science of …” returns in December. On Thursdays at 3 p.m. Central Time, Game and Parks educators will discuss the science behind common things regarding nature and animals. The topics: Dec. 5 – Cyanobacteria; Dec. 12 – Flight; Dec. 19 – Prairie Dogs.

The webinars are free, but separate registration is required for each. See the calendar event entries at Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov for registration links. Contact [email protected] for more information.

Flock to Birds of a Feather on Dec. 10

Get ready to go birding by participating in the Birds of a Feather program at 9:30 a.m. on select Tuesdays at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park’s new James Family Conservatory and Nature Center.

A different birding topic is introduced each session to begin the program, followed by a trip outdoors to the birding area, which may include a hike.

On Dec. 10, the topic for this free program for all ages will be Bird Identification Strategies. Those strategies in December include shape, markings, behavior, habitat, and range.

James Family Conservatory to host Wise and Wild

Wise and Wild is a program for those age 55 and up who love the outdoors. It will be at 3 p.m. on select Tuesdays at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park’s new James Family Conservatory and Nature Center.

On Dec. 10, the topic for this free event will be Nature Journaling and Phenology. Discover the benefits of nature journaling and explore how observing nature over time can tell a story.

Wildcat Hills preschool program is Dec. 10

Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area will host its monthly preschool program Dec. 10 with Winter Wonderland.

The program will meet at the Nature Center at 10 a.m. Mountain Time. It will include a lesson plan, story and hands-on activity specifically targeted for children ages 2-6 years.

The program is free, but a vehicle park entry permit is required. For more information, contact the Nature Center at 308-436-3777. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Night Hike at Schramm Park SRA

Enjoy the sounds of the forest on a crisp winter night and join Schramm Park State Recreation Area naturalists on a hike in forest after nightfall Dec. 12.

The 1.5-mile hike will begin at 7 p.m. at the pond trailhead. The hike, which will last about an hour, will follow the west side of the Hackberry Trail and the full Red Cedar Trail loop.

There are stairs at the trailhead and an elevation change during the hike. The hike likely will stop briefly midway through to turn off lights to give eyes a chance to adjust for better night sky viewing.

Wildcat Hills homeschool program is Dec. 12

The Wildcat Hills homeschool program meets once a month at 10 a.m. Mountain Time at the Wildcat Hills Nature Center. Learn what animals do to prepare for winter as the theme Dec. 12 is Winter Wonderland.

Certified staff lead various programs that showcase a different theme, focusing on ecosystems, animals, adaptations, and habitats found only in western Nebraska. Activities focus hands-on learning and observations, targeted to your students’ learning.

For more information, contact the Nature Center at 308-436-3777. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Homeschool Hikes set for Dec. 18-19 at Schramm

Homeschool families for ages 5 and up are invited to join an outdoor educator on a guided hike at Schramm Park State Recreation Area near Gretna during the Homeschool Hikes program at 9 a.m. Dec. 18 and 1 p.m. Dec. 19. This month's theme is Winter is Coming.

During the program, participants may ask questions, draw, observe, and make discoveries in nature. They will have the opportunity to observe local phenomena, plants, and animals while exploring concepts such as patterns, cause and effect, and structure and function.

Participants are encouraged to RSVP in advance through the event listing at Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov.

Indian Cave SP to host Christmas Bird Count

Come join the fun at the Indian Cave State Park Christmas Bird Count from 9 a.m.-noon Dec. 19.

Learn bird identification tips and see some uncommon Nebraska bird species.

Dress for the weather and bring a water bottle, binoculars, and any bird identification books.

A free soup lunch will be provided for participants. Register for the lunch at the park office.

Schramm to host Christmas Bird Count for Kids

Get the family outdoors and help contribute to science by participating in the Christmas Bird Count for Kids at Schramm Education Center near Gretna from 10 a.m. to noon Dec. 27.

Schramm naturalists will lead bird hikes in the forest and down to the Platte River. Participants also can watch birds indoors at the park’s feeders. Make bird crafts and help tally the results so they can be shared with the annual Audubon’s Christmas Bird Count Project. Reports from each of these counts are sent to the Audubon Society, which compiles the data to help inform researchers about the status of bird populations.

The cost to participate is $4 per child ages 4 and up and $5 per adult. That includes the program and admission to the Education Center. Schramm Family Pass Members participate free. Meet at the classroom.

Nature journaling at Schramm

Learn how to start a nature journal, track changes in the environment and be an observer of the habitat around you. Meet at the Schramm Education Center lobby at 10 a.m. Dec. 31.

This program is for all levels and will include time outdoors, stations with prompts and ideas to practice. 

 

Explore the parks with these Game and Parks events in December

Spend some time in Nebraska’s state parks this fall and winter by attending a variety of events throughout December.

Don’t forget a vehicle park entry permit is required at Nebraska state parks. Get one at OutdoorNebraska.gov or at state park entrances.

Lewis and Clark hosting Holiday Tree Decorating Contest

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 Holiday Tree Decorating Contest will run Nov. 28 to Jan. 5.

Contestants – households or groups – may decorate one tree along the park’s entrance driveway.

Contestants are encouraged to use environmentally friendly decorations, such as popcorn garland, solar powered lights, bird seed pine cones, wildlife-friendly decorations and more. Then take a photo of the decorated tree and send it to [email protected].

For more information, call the park at 402-388-4169.

Holiday cabin discount at Lewis and Clark SRA

Share time with family or friends over the holidays in cozy cabin at Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area. Reserve between Dec. 1 and Jan. 3 and get a 30% discount.

The discount makes the cabin rental $224, plus tax, for two nights, which is the minimum required stay.

Add a holiday gift basket for a nonrefundable $30. This includes souvenir keepsakes, an ornament, festive snacks and beverages.

Call the park office at 402-388-4169 to reserve a cabin.

Fort Robinson historical Christmas dinner

Travel back to 1874 and celebrate a historical, 28th annual Christmas dinner at the lodge at Fort Robinson State Park.

The dinner will begin at 6 p.m. Mountain Time on Dec. 7.

Tickets, at a limit of four per family, are $35 each. Buy them at the Fort Robinson Lodge, Chadron Chamber of Commerce and Sandhills State Bank in Harrison. Only cash or check accepted.

Platte River SP to host Archery on Fire

Test your skills in archery and primitive shooting at the Roger G. Sykes Outdoor Heritage Complex from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 7 at Platte River State Park. There also will be a naturalist tent with many nature activities to explore. 

 Ponca celebrates Christmas in the Woods

Enjoy winter at Ponca State Park during Christmas in the Woods with lighted hayrack rides through the woods each Saturday in December.

Dec. 7, 14, 21 and 28, free rides will start at 4:40 p.m. and run through 6:30 p.m. Guests can sign up at the park office, which also is the pick-up and drop-off location. Rides take approximately 20 minutes.

Enjoy hot cocoa and cookies at the Resource and Education Center during your visit.

Holiday Hike at Wildcat Hills

Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area invites families of all ages and experience levels to embrace the season with a fun and festive Holiday Hike through nature Dec. 14.

Meet at the Wildcat Hills Nature Center at 1 p.m. Mountain Time to begin this half-mile hike through the winter landscape on uneven terrain. Along the way, enjoy holiday-themed activities, nature games, and even a special guest or two. Later, warm up by the fire with hot cocoa and cookies.

Call the Wildcat Hills Nature Center at 308-436-3777 for more information.

Mahoney SP to host Classic Christmas on Dec. 14

Classic Christmas is a fun holiday event for the entire family from 1 to 4 p.m. Dec. 14 at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park’s Crete Carrier Riverview Lodge.

Families can participate with their children decorating a sugar cookie or making a holiday ornament. Take a free trolley ride through the park (weather permitting).

Santa will stop by. Free portraits with him will be taken by a Nebraskaland Magazine photographer.

Ponca SP to host Winterfest

Close out the year in style at Ponca State Park with the annual Winterfest on Dec. 14.

Highlights of the free event, from 8 a.m.-5 p.m., include the Christmas Bird Count, naturalist activities and the National Championship Fruitcake Fling at noon.

In the fruitcake fling, contestants throw wildlife-friendly fruitcakes for distance. Prizes are awarded in four age groups.

For more information, call Ponca SP, at 402-755-2284.

Yule Log Festival is Dec. 21 at Platte River SP

Come to Platte River State Park with family and friends Dec. 21 and enjoy the Yule Log Festival.

This event, from noon to 5:30 p.m. at the Walter Scott Jr. Lodge, will include making pine cone bird feeders, roasting marshmallows, Yule Log Quest, kindling hunt, lighted hayrack rides, games, photos with Santa, holiday cookie decorating contest, bonfire and more.

The Yule Log Quest is limited to 20 teams, which can register by calling the office at 402-234-2217.

 

Six Nebraska state parks to be thankful for

By Renae Blum

Thanksgiving is almost here, and many of us can count blessings like friends, family and our communities. But what about our outdoor spaces, and all the benefits they bring – spaces to watch wildlife, to recreate, to destress and enjoy nature?

Here are six Nebraska state parks, most a little off the beaten path, that offer much to be thankful for.

Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area

Located about 10 miles south of Gering in western Nebraska, this rugged park offers scenic beauty and plenty to do. “It’s a pretty family-friendly area, from our hiking trails to our nature center,” said park superintendent Amanda Filipi. “There’s something for everybody.” 

Explore the rocky bluffs and ponderosa pine-studded landscapes through over 4 miles of trails. Filipi recommended the Turkey Run Trail, which takes you through much of the park and is a favorite with visitors. Other trails offer amazing views of the North Platte River Valley and Scotts Bluff National Monument.

After your hike, take a break at the park’s Nature Center, which is open Monday through Friday this time of year. It features live reptiles and amphibians, interactive displays and exhibits about this unique landscape.

The park is also home to a variety of wildlife — some of which can’t be found in other parts of the state. “We have some really great birdwatching because we get both eastern and western species here,” Filipi said. She encourages visitors to find a spot inside the Nature Center to watch birds this winter; the feeders are always full.

Buffalo Bill State Historical Park

This small park near North Platte is filled with history. Once home to famed showman scout William F. “Buffalo Bill” Cody, the grounds still feature his mansion home, large barn and other historic buildings. The holidays are the perfect time to make a visit, as the park will host its annual Christmas at the Codys’ event in December.

“It’s a big event,” said park superintendent Adam Jones, describing it as a celebration of North Platte. Local nonprofit organizations decorate each room in the mansion, which will be open for tours along with the barn. The event also features visits with Santa, hayrack rides, carolers, cider, chestnuts and cookies, and lights decorating the entire property. Stop by to see it from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 6-7, 13-14 and 20-21.

Although the buildings are closed outside this event in fall and winter, Jones said people still come to visit the grounds. Many bring their dogs on the park’s walking trails and take in the beautiful scenery, including towering cottonwoods that are over 100 years old. “It’s just very peaceful, very pretty out here, especially when there’s snow on the ground,” Jones said.

Mormon Island State Recreation Area

Welcome to “the oasis on the Platte.” This park, which is about 9 miles south of Grand Island, “has a very homey feel,” said park superintendent Brock Burney, despite how busy things can get.

“There’s probably no better place in the state than Mormon Island for a quick getaway,” Burney said.

Besides ample camping opportunities, the park also attracts many species of birds. In spring, Mormon Island makes a great basecamp for viewing sandhill cranes. And from October to December, visitors can view a plethora of waterfowl species, including coots, pintails, mallards and teal, on the park’s two lakes. A viewing blind is available at Lake 2; call the park for the opportunity to use it.

Other attractions include a scenic 1-mile nature trail and some great fishing, including the opportunity to catch muskie in the fall. Burney said it’s rare to find muskie in south-central Nebraska on a sandpit lake. In the winter, the park offers good ice-fishing; anglers can catch panfish, crappie, bluegill and redear sunfish.

Chadron State Park

Asked what makes Chadron State Park a great place to visit, superintendent Josh May’s answer came easily. “Honestly, it’s the trees,” he said. Known for its ponderosa pines, the park is filled with their bright green colors, as well as more unusual species, such as soft white pines, quaking aspens and sycamores. Combined with Chadron State Park’s landscape of rocky buttes, it adds up to a scenic wonderland perfect for hiking or photography.

Over 20 miles of trails can be found in the park. A standout is Steamboat Butte Trail, which offers scenic views and is about 1.5 miles long, and Black Hills Overlook, which is “very pretty,” May said.

The park’s six modern duplex cabins are open through Dec. 31 and make a great getaway. Nearby is a large group rental facility; visitors like to book all six cabins for family reunions and use the rental facility’s large kitchen.

May also says the park prides itself on its wildlife. This year, populations of turkey and deer have been abundant. Many visitors travel to come enjoy the birding, as well, as the park sees species that aren’t often spotted in the rest of the state.

Medicine Creek State Recreation Area

Scenic Medicine Creek State Park is about 32 miles northeast of McCook, and away from any major roads. “It’s a little bit off the beaten path,” said park superintendent Ken Cobb – one reason why so many visitors like it.

They also appreciate the way the park is run. Campsites are well-maintained, and visitors know they can expect a family-friendly atmosphere. “We don’t put up with partiers or anything like that,” Cobb said.

Perhaps the primary draw is the beauty of the park, Cobb said. Medicine Creek’s shoreline is lined with cottonwoods, and the main campground is full of mature cottonwoods. And “as pretty as the lake is from the shoreline, it’s even prettier from the water,” Cobb said. Visitors may also spot wildlife such as deer, turkey and eagles.

Hunting is a major draw this time of year, including turkey and pheasant, keeping the park’s four modern cabins majorly in demand. Medicine Creek’s cabins are also busy in the summer, with new visitors coming in and out “just about as fast as we can get them cleaned and open for the next people,” Cobb said. Cabin guests enjoy a spectacular view of the lake right out their back door. 

Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area

Looking to get away from it all? Merritt Reservoir State Recreation Area is in the heart of the Sandhills, about 26 miles southwest of Valentine, and its remote location is a big draw for visitors. “We get people from all over the United States that come to Merritt,” said park superintendent Leo Kallhoff. “People are seeking that solitude.”

Camping is popular at the park, and many visitors bring their telescopes, as Merritt is known internationally for its stargazing opportunities. In 2022, the park became the first Nebraska site certified by DarkSky International, the recognized authority on light pollution. Because light pollution is so minimal here, visitors can see “everything” the night sky has to offer, Kallhoff said.

Other draws for visitors are the park’s fishing and hunting opportunities. Merritt has a great fishery, boasting everything from walleye to northern pike, muskie, catfish, bass and bluegill. Hunters can pursue species like sharp-tailed grouse, white-tailed deer, mule deer, turkey, duck and pheasant.

It’s also a scenic area to relax. Take in the rolling hills, groves of pine and cedar trees, and the 3,000 surface acres of Merritt Reservoir.   

The rest of Nebraska’s state parks

More than 70 state parks, recreation areas and historical sites can be found across Nebraska, and each has something unique to offer. Visit OutdoorNebraska.gov/parks/find-a-park to view an interactive map of parks and their amenities, as well as a list of all parks to browse through.

Whatever the outdoors means to you — whether that’s plenty of space to play, to relax, to watch wildlife or to recreate — you can find the perfect outlet at a Nebraska state park.

A park entry permit is required to access these parks; purchase yours and make reservations at OutdoorNebraska.gov.

 

Pheasants to be released for hunting before Thanksgiving

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will release adult rooster pheasants on 18 wildlife management areas leading up to the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.

The WMAs are Arnold Trupp WMA (Morrill County), Arrowhead WMA (Gage County), Bordeaux WMA (Dawes County), Branched Oak WMA (Lancaster County), Cornhusker WMA (Hall County), George D. Syas WMA (Nance County), Hickory Ridge WMA      (Johnson County), James N. Douglas WMA (Johnson County), Kirkpatrick Basin (North County) WMA (York County), Oak Valley WMA   (Madison County), Peru Bottoms WMA (Nemaha County), Powder Creek WMA (Dixon County), Pressey WMA (Custer County), Rakes Creek WMA (Cass County), Randall W. Schilling WMA (Cass County), Sherman Reservoir WMA (Sherman County), Wilkinson WMA (Platte County), and Yankee Hill WMA (Lancaster County).

To view a map of the pheasant release sites, visit the Upland Hunting page at OutdoorNebraska.gov.

The pheasants will be released to enhance hunting opportunities over the extended Thanksgiving holiday weekend and encourage families to spend time together in the field. Non-toxic shot is required at Kirkpatrick Basin North, Peru Bottoms, Randall W. Schilling, and Wilkinson WMAs, but otherwise all usual regulations apply.

Game and Parks reminds hunters that safety in the field and of those releasing pheasants is of utmost importance; for this reason, a specific schedule for pheasant releases will not be issued.

Nebraska’s pheasant, quail, and prairie grouse seasons run through Jan. 31, 2025. Permits and applicable stamps may be purchased at OutdoorNebraska.gov.

For more information on these and other publicly accessible lands throughout Nebraska, visit view Game and Parks’ Public Access Atlas online or contact Game and Parks at 402-471-0641.

Big game meetings scheduled across Nebraska

Hunters and landowners are encouraged to offer their feedback on big game information during the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s public meetings this winter.

These 2½-hour meetings are scheduled in each Game and Parks district. All in-person meetings, begin at 6:30 p.m. local time.

The first 30 minutes will be an open house with time to talk with wildlife biologists, conservation officers and staff. Biologists will make a presentation at 7 p.m. and discuss big game harvest results and season structure. Then they will take questions on topics such as big game management, depredation, permits, antlerless harvest, trophy management and diseases.

The schedule is:

Dec. 9 – Valentine, Niobrara Lodge, 803 E. Hwy. 20

Dec. 11 – O’Neill, Community Center, 501 S. 4th St.

Dec. 16 – Columbus, Central Community College, Science and Technology Building, Room 330, 4500 63rd St.

Dec. 18 – North Platte, North Platte Community College, North Campus, 1101 Halligan Drive

Jan. 2 – Geneva, Public Library, 1043 G St.

Jan. 6 – Arapahoe, Ella Missing Center, 411 6th St.

Jan. 7 – Kimball, Fairgrounds 4-H Building, 415 S. High School St.

Jan. 8 – Kearney, Kearney Outdoor Education Complex, 10945 Poole Ave.

Jan. 13 – Superior, Country Club, 3628 Road E

Jan. 15 – Ashland, Public Library, 1324 Silver St.

People who cannot attend a meeting can watch an online big game informational session via Zoom. Two Zoom meetings are scheduled for 7 p.m. Central Time Jan. 12 and Jan. 14. See the calendar event entries at Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov for the registration links for each meeting.