- Biking
- Equestrian trails
- Hiking
State Historical Park
57426 710th Rd. | Fairbury, NE 68352-5550
Rock Creek Station was a stagecoach and Pony Express station and a stop for those traveling the Oregon and California trails. Today, it is a state historical park encompassing 350 acres of prairie hilltops, timber-studded creek bottoms, and rugged ravines. Deep ruts carved by the many wagons that traveled the Oregon Trail remain plainly visible at this picturesque park. Rich history and beautiful scenery draw visitors from near and far. The park grounds are open 8 a.m. to sunset year round.
Rock Creek Station was a stagecoach and Pony Express station established in 1857 along the Oregon-California trail as a waystation for travelers. If not for one fateful day in 1861, Rock Creek Station might have faded into obscurity. On July 12th, 1861, an argument over payment turned deadly when a stockhand at the station, James Butler Hickok, shot and killed the owner of the station, David McCanles. James Butler Hickok, later known as “Wild Bill,” went on to become a gunfighter and wild west legend.
Development of Rock Creek Station as a state historical park began in 1980. Archaeologists investigated and excavated locations on the park grounds thought to be the building sites of the station that dated to the 1858-1860 time period. Period artifacts were recovered during the excavation, along with enough information about the original buildings to reconstruct replicas that the public can visit today.
A young visitor plays with toy gun during Rock Creek Trail Days at Rock Creek Station State Historical Park. Eric Fowler, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
A covered wagon is on display at Rock Creek Station State Historical Park, Jefferson County. Eric Fowler, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
A brick relief sculpture in the Rock Creek Station State Historical Park visitor center depicts a Pony Express rider. Michael Forsberg, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Tools hang on the blacksmith forge in the reconstructed Pony Express Barn on the East Ranch at Rock Creek Station State Historical Park in Jefferson County. Eric Fowler, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
In the mid-1800s, Rock Creek Station served as an important stop along the Oregon-California Trail for wagons and stagecoaches. The road ranches on the east and west side of Rock Creek provided supplies and services to travelers, and the ranches were connected by a toll bridge. In 1860-1861, the East Ranch served as a Pony Express station.
Today, visitors to the park can explore reconstructed ranch cabins, a bunkhouse, barn, post office, and toll bridge. Visitors can walk through the ranches year-round, and the buildings are open seasonally.
Six miles of equestrian trails wind throughout Rock Creek Station State Historical Park and the adjoining Rock Creek Station State Recreation Area. An equestrian campground is available at Rock Creek Station State Recreation Area.
The Visitor Center interprets the history of Rock Creek Station and houses exhibits of artifacts that were excavated from the site.
A park entry permit is required and may be purchased at the park, statewide Game and Parks offices and permit vendors or in advance of your arrival online at GoOutdoorsNE.com.
Rock Creek Station State Historical Park contains six miles of hiking and nature trails. The park’s reconstructed buildings and wagon ruts are visible from these trails. Maps guiding visitors on a self-guided walking tour of the park’s historic sites are available in the Visitor Center.
Living history demonstrations by area re-enactors are held periodically throughout the summer months.
Rock Creek Trail Days is held annually the first full weekend in June. The National Pony Express Re-Ride is also held annually in June.
The park has nearly 40 picnic tables and grills, along with three covered picnic shelters.
Camping is available at adjoining Rock Creek Station State Recreation Area.
Picnic shelters, the Visitor Center theater and other facilities or grounds may rented for your activity or wedding.
Park Pricing
A park entry permit is required to visit state parks and may be purchased at the park, statewide Game and Parks offices and permit vendors, or in advance of your arrival online. View those fees, as well as attraction and amenity pricing.
Park Events
Our 76 gorgeous state park and recreations areas host a plethora of events throughout the year. From bird hikes to kayak races, Living History events to family outdoor days, our parks host something fun for every outdoor enthusiast.