Discover Serenity at Platte River State Park

Explore Platte River State Park in Nebraska – a haven for nature enthusiasts with scenic trails, lush forests, waterfalls, and family-friendly activities.

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Platte River State Park

Nestled in the heart of Nebraska, Platte River State Park offers a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. This park is a gem for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. The park is located between Omaha and Lincoln, making it an easy stop for those touring the state. Visitors can explore miles of scenic trails, perfect for hiking and biking. Along the way, you may encounter diverse wildlife and lush forests. The park's beautiful waterfalls and creeks add to its charm, providing ideal spots for photography and relaxation. For a unique experience, stay in one of the park's cozy cabins or campgrounds. The park also offers fishing, paddle boating, and swimming in its well-maintained lake. Families will love the playgrounds and picnic areas, creating lasting memories together. Don't miss the interactive nature center, where you can learn about the local ecosystem and enjoy hands-on exhibits. Whether you're seeking solitude in nature or a fun-filled family outing, Platte River State Park is the perfect destination.

Local tips in Platte River State Park

Visit during the weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
Bring a good pair of hiking shoes for the trails, as some areas can be steep and rugged.
Check the park's event calendar for guided hikes and educational programs.
Pack a picnic and use the designated areas to enjoy a meal with a view.
Don't forget your camera to capture the park's scenic beauty and wildlife.

Get out of the House! Scotts Bluff National Monument > F.E. Warren Air Force Base > Features

File:Ash Hollow P7170172 Valley of North Platte.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

When is the best time to go to Platte River State Park?

Unmissable attractions to see

Heartland of America Park at The RiverFront

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Joslyn Art Museum

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Chalco Hills Recreation Area

Explore Chalco Hills Recreation Area, a gem in Omaha, Nebraska, where nature meets adventure, offering scenic trails, a tranquil lake, and abundant wildlife.

Wildlife Safari Park

Explore diverse wildlife and immersive natural landscapes at the Wildlife Safari Park in Ashland, Nebraska, a perfect destination for nature lovers and families.

Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum

Discover the rich history of military aviation at the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum in Ashland, Nebraska - a haven for aviation enthusiasts.

The Rose Theater, Farnam Street, Omaha, NE

Experience the enchantment of The Rose Theater in Omaha, where family-friendly performances ignite imagination and creativity.

E.T. Mahoney State Park Activity Center, Venture Climb, and Seasonal Ice Skating Rink

Explore the thrills of E.T. Mahoney State Park Activity Center, offering rock climbing, ice skating, and a fun indoor playground experience for the whole family.

Zorinsky Lake Park

Explore Zorinsky Lake Park in Omaha, a scenic oasis for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers alike, featuring trails, fishing, and picnic spots.

Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park

Experience the thrill of ziplining and adventure courses at Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park in Ashland, Nebraska, offering fun for all ages in a stunning natural setting.

Walter Scott Jr Observation Tower

Discover unparalleled views of Nebraska's stunning landscapes from the Walter Scott Jr Observation Tower in Ashland - a must-visit for every traveler.

Slattery Vintage Estates

Experience the beauty and flavors of Slattery Vintage Estates, Nebraska's premier winery, where every visit is a taste of local tradition and craftsmanship.

Aldrich House

Explore Aldrich House in Elmwood, Nebraska, a charming museum that unveils the rich history and culture of the local community.

Platte River Landing State Park

Experience the tranquility and natural beauty of Platte River Landing State Park, a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families in Nebraska.

Teepee Village

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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Nebraska Crossing

Discover Nebraska Crossing, the ultimate outlet shopping experience with unbeatable deals and a vibrant atmosphere in Gretna, Nebraska.

Platte River State Park

Explore Platte River State Park, a Nebraska gem with scenic trails, abundant wildlife, and outdoor activities perfect for families and nature lovers.

Brass Armadillo Antique Mall - Omaha

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Platte Valley Antique Mall, Cafe & Pub

Explore the Platte Valley Antique Mall, Cafe & Pub for a unique shopping experience filled with vintage treasures and delightful dining in Nebraska.

Grunt Style @ Nebraska Crossing

Discover Grunt Style at Nebraska Crossing: Your destination for high-quality, patriotic apparel that embodies the American spirit.

Salt Creek Mercantile

Explore Salt Creek Mercantile: A Unique Home Goods and Gift Shop in Ashland, Nebraska, Offering Local Artistry and Distinctive Finds for Every Taste.

Robin's Nest

Explore Springfield's finest gift shop and paint store, where unique treasures and local artistry await to inspire your creativity.

Simply Styled

Explore Simply Styled, the ultimate boutique destination blending fashion and cocktails for a delightful shopping experience.

Postscript

Discover a world of creativity at Postscript, Ashland's unique boutique for stationery and gifts, perfect for tourists and locals alike.

White House Black Market

Discover the elegance of women's fashion at White House Black Market, featuring stylish clothing and accessories in Gretna, Nebraska.

Coop De Ville

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The Lantern Boutique

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The Gift Niche

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francesca's

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ReMain

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Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Round the Bend Steakhouse

Experience the best steaks in Ashland, Nebraska at Round the Bend Steakhouse, where quality meets flavor in a cozy setting.

Glacial Till Cider House & Tasting Room

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BW's Pub & Grill

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Heron Bay

Enjoy delicious grilled delights in a welcoming atmosphere at Heron Bay, the perfect dining spot for tourists in Springfield, Nebraska.

Therapy Bar & Grill

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Twisted Vine

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Langdon's Bar & Grill

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Philly Sports Bar & Grill

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Brownie's Bar & Grill

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KC's Eastside Saloon

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Don's Bar

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Houston's Lounge

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Nomads Bar and Kitchen

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Good Times Saloon

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CCI Bar & Grill

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Platte River State Park

Discover Platte River State Park with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases about Platte River State Park

- HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
- GoodbyeSo long
  [soh lawng]
- YesYup
  [yuhp]
- NoNope
  [nohp]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No worries
  [pleez/noh wur-eez]
- Thank youThanks a heap
  [thaynks uh heep]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me/Sorry 'bout that
  [pahr-dun mee/sawr-ee bowt that]
- How are you?Howdy
  [haw-dee]
- Fine. And you?Jest fine. How 'bout you?
  [jest fahyn. how bowt yuh?]
- Do you speak English?Y'all speak English?
  [yawl speak ing-glish?]
- I don't understandI'm plumb lost
  [ahm pluhm lost]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseKin I take a gander at the grub, please
  [kin eye tayk uh gan-der at the gruhb, pleez]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat critters
  [ah dohnt eet crit-ters]
- Cheers!Bottoms up!
  [bah-tuhms up]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI reckon I'll settle up, please
  [ah rek-uhn ahl set-l up, pleez]
- Help!Heck!
  [hek]
- Go away!Git outta here!
  [git out-uh heer]
- Call the Police!Send for the Sheriff!
  [send fohr the sher-iff]
- Call a doctor!Fetch the Doc!
  [fetch the dok]
- I'm lostI'm turned around
  [ahm turnd uh-round]
- I'm illI ain't feelin' right
  [ahnt feel-in rahyt]
- I'd like to buy...I'm fixin' to buy...
  [ahm fik-sin tuh bahy]
- I'm just lookingI'm just browsin'
  [ahm just brow-zin]
- How much is it?How much fer that?
  [how much fur that]
- That's too expensiveThat's highfalutin'
  [thatz hahy-fuh-lootin]
- Can you lower the price?Y'can do better on the price?
  [y'kan doh bet-tur on the price]
- What time is it?What's the time o' day?
  [whuts the tahym oh day]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o' the clock
  [its wuhn oh the klok]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [haf past ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [morn-in]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-tur-noon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [even-in]
- YesterdayYest'day
  [yest-day]
- TodayToday
  [toh-day]
- TomorrowMorrow
  [moh-row]
- 1One
  [wuhn]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [fawr]
- 5Five
  [fahyv]
- 6Six
  [siks]
- 7Seven
  [sev-uhn]
- 8Eight
  [ayt]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...at?
  [wheres the...at]
- What's the address?What's the location?
  [whuts the loh-kay-shun]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can y'all point it out (on the map)?
  [can yawl point it owt on the map]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next stagecoach?
  [whens the next stayj-coach]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (fer ....)
  [a ticket fur]

History of Platte River State Park

Long before European settlers arrived, the area now known as Platte River State Park was home to various indigenous tribes, including the Pawnee and the Otoe-Missouria. These tribes relied on the fertile plains and the Platte River for sustenance, engaging in hunting, fishing, and farming. The river was not only a crucial resource but also a spiritual and cultural landmark for these communities.
In the mid-19th century, the Platte River Valley became a vital corridor for westward expansion. The Oregon Trail, which passed through this region, was a critical route for pioneers heading to the western United States. Platte River State Park's landscape still bears traces of these historic journeys, with wagon ruts and campsites providing tangible links to this era of American history.
The advent of the transcontinental railroad in the late 1800s marked another significant chapter in the history of Platte River State Park. The Union Pacific Railroad, which ran parallel to the Platte River, brought an influx of settlers, commerce, and industry to the area. The railroad not only transformed transportation but also spurred economic development in Nebraska and the surrounding regions.
Platte River State Park was officially established in 1982, combining two former state recreation areas: Camp Harriet Harding and Camp Esther K. Newman. The park was developed to preserve the natural beauty of the region and provide recreational opportunities for visitors. Today, it spans over 500 acres and offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, and camping.
Over the years, Platte River State Park has faced numerous challenges from natural disasters such as floods and tornadoes. These events have prompted ongoing conservation and restoration efforts to preserve the park's ecological integrity. Initiatives include habitat restoration projects, wildlife conservation programs, and measures to protect the Platte River's water quality.
Platte River State Park is not just a hub for outdoor recreation; it also serves as a center for cultural and educational activities. The park hosts various programs that celebrate the history and natural heritage of the region, including guided nature walks, historical reenactments, and educational workshops. These programs aim to enrich visitors' understanding of the park's historical significance and environmental importance.

Platte River State Park Essentials

Platte River State Park is located in eastern Nebraska, about halfway between Omaha and Lincoln. The nearest major airport is Eppley Airfield in Omaha, approximately 30 miles away. From Omaha, you can rent a car and take Interstate 80 west to Exit 426, then follow State Highway 66 west to the park entrance. Alternatively, Lincoln Airport is about 40 miles away, and you can follow a similar route using Interstate 80 east.
The best way to get around Platte River State Park is by car. Car rentals are available at both Eppley Airfield in Omaha and Lincoln Airport. Within the park, there are numerous trails that are best explored on foot or by bicycle. For those who prefer not to drive, local taxi services can be arranged, but they may be less convenient and more expensive.
The official currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Major credit cards are widely accepted within the park, including at the visitor center and lodging facilities. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller transactions or in case of technical issues with card readers. ATMs are available in nearby towns such as Louisville and Ashland.
Platte River State Park is generally very safe for visitors. However, standard safety precautions should still be observed. Keep an eye on personal belongings, especially in crowded areas such as the visitor center. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists within the park. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially when hiking or exploring remote areas.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. The park has its own ranger station, and there are first aid stations located throughout the park. For medical emergencies, the nearest hospital is in Omaha, about 30 miles away. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in nearby towns.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing, especially if you plan on hiking. Avoid wearing open-toed shoes on trails. Religion: While there are no specific religious customs to be aware of, always respect the natural environment and follow Leave No Trace principles. Public Transport: Public transportation options are limited, so do plan to rent a car if possible. Greetings: Do greet fellow visitors and park staff with a friendly hello. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local foods available at park concessions. Don't leave trash behind; always use designated trash bins or take your trash with you.
To experience Platte River State Park like a local, take time to explore the lesser-known trails for a quieter experience. Visit the Owen Landing at Jenny Newman Lake for paddle boating and fishing. Engage with park rangers and staff, who can offer insights into the best spots for wildlife viewing and photography. Don't miss the scenic overlooks, especially at sunrise and sunset for breathtaking views of the Platte River Valley.

Discover Serenity at Platte River State Park

Local tips in Platte River State Park