Explore the parks with these events in October

Spend some time this fall in Nebraska’s state parks. While history is a major theme during October park events, other types of events are scheduled, too.

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

Enjoy living history at Fort Atkinson Oct. 4-5

Travel 200 years back in time and experience history on the Great Plains at Fort Atkinson State Historical Park on Oct. 4-5.

Ongoing demonstrations featuring military and civilian life of the 1820s will occur throughout the park from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Reenactors portray fur traders, coopers, blacksmiths, carpenters, tinsmiths, weavers and other period trades. Visitors are encouraged to interact with the reenactors.

A fee is required at the Harold W. Andersen Visitor Center of $5 per adult and $1 per child. For more information, contact the park near Fort Calhoun at ngpc.fort.atkinson@nebraska.gov or 402-468-5611.

Arbor Lodge events in October

Weekends at Arbor Lodge will be busy in October, with these fun, exciting events:

Frontier Days – Visit Arbor Lodge State Historical Park during Frontier Days on Oct. 4-5 to learn more about the days of the early pioneers. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., demonstrations and displays will include ropemaking, early education, antique kitchen gadgets, rag dolls, quilting, dress-like-a-pioneer, old-time toys and games, household chores, early transportation, and more. The Cortland Opry House dulcimer players will perform throughout the day Oct. 4. The Nebraska Game and Parks History Trailer also will be in the park for viewing.

Victorian Era Living History – The Victorian Era (1837-1901) ushered in a unique host of styles and traditions, as well as significant social, economic, political changes. Some of these traditions will be the highlights of Victorian Era Living History on Oct. 11-12 at Arbor Lodge State Historical Park. See the calendar event entry at Calendar.Outdoornebraska.gov for more details.

Murder mystery – The murder mystery “A Villain’s Vendetta” is set for 6:30 p.m. Oct. 31 at Arbor Lodge Mansion. Solve clues, look for evidence, and break the case while mingling with new friends. Participants, who will receive a character to portray as they arrive, may wear their own themed attire or select from available props. Space is limited. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Visit the calendar event entry at Calendar.Outdoornebraska.gov to purchase tickets and get more information.

Family Rendezvous at Platte River State Park

Enjoy a day of outdoor fun at the Family Rendezvous on Oct. 5 at Platte River State Park.

Come to the Roger G. Sykes Outdoor Heritage Complex from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. for free activities such as traditional muzzleloaders, archery, tomahawks, slingshots, pellet guns, atlatl, naturalist activities and roasting marshmallows. Participants may bring their own muzzleloaders to sight-in before hunting season.

Food will be available for purchase.

Collect seeds to restore oak savanna at Schramm Park SRA

Schramm Park State Recreation Area is holding a volunteer opportunity Oct. 21 to assist with oak woodland restoration efforts.

Join Nebraska Game and Parks staff in walking the prairie to collect seeds from native plants to help with oak savanna restoration efforts.

Wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes and long pants, bring water, and outdoor work gloves. Long sleeves are also recommended. All ages are welcome, but anyone under the age of 18 must have an accompanying adult.

Meet at the Schramm Education Center lobby at 9 a.m.

Visit the calendar event entry at Calendar.Outdoornebraska.gov to register. Email jennifer.ruyle@nebraska.gov with any questions.