Enjoy fun July events in northeastern state parks

Spend some time this summer in Nebraska’s northeastern state parks. During July, a variety of events are planned for those for all ages and interests.

Don’t forget to purchase a required vehicle park entry permit to enter the state parks. Get one at OutdoorNebraska.gov or at state park entrances.

Celebrate Independence Day like it’s 1820

Travel 200 years back in time to celebrate Independence Day weekend at Fort Atkinson State Historical Park near Fort Calhoun. On July 5-6, visitors may glimpse the holiday activities that would have taken place at this 1820s-era outpost.

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

The park will be open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. A fee is required at the Harold W. Andersen Visitor Center of $5 per adult and $1 per child. For more information, email ngpc.fort.atkinson@nebraska.gov, call 402-468-5611 or visit OutdoorNebraska.gov/location/fort-atkinson/.

For a schedule of events, see the calendar event entry at Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov.

Stars, Strolls & Smores at Willow Creek

Venture out to Willow Creek State Recreation Area near Pierce on July 9 for a hike under the full moon, nature program and s’mores.

It begins at 7:30 p.m. with a short introduction to the night’s program – Pollinator Palooza – then a mile hike to a designated area to hear presentations from local experts in their field. The return trip will end by a fire eating s’mores.

Pollinator Palooza is a session exploring the world of native bees. Participants will look at the essential role these tiny pollinators play in ecosystems and the food supply.

Direct questions to Dan Vanderveen at 402-329-4053.

Bob Tichota Fire Prevention Fun Day is July 19

Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area will host the Bob Tichota Fire Prevention Fun Day on July 19.

From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the meeting facility on Lake No. 16, visit with local rural fire departments, law enforcement, Omaha Public Power District, and other safety entities to learn about fire safety awareness and firefighter and law enforcement job duties.

For the kids, there will be fire truck rides, free food, face painting, seat belt simulator, and much more.

Tichota was a volunteer firefighter and fire prevention advocate. He also was a campground host at Fremont Lakes for more than 25 years.

Crofton Dam Race set for July 26

Sign up or cheer on competitors in the annual Crofton Dam Race on July 26 at Lewis and Clark Lake State Recreation Area in Crofton.

Competitors can choose among three events: A sprint triathlon with kayaking instead of swimming, a half marathon or 12-mile bike race. Participants must be 14 years or older. The Triathlon can be done individually or in teams. Kayaks are provided and medals will be awarded for winners of each age group.

Plan to stick around the finish line in Crofton for a party with food and music.

Register at CroftonsDamRace.com.

Fremont Lakes SRA celebrates Christmas in July

Get festive at Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area with a Christmas in July campsite decorating contest on July 26.

Campers are invited to deck out their campsites at Victory Lake and Pathfinder campgrounds for a festive Christmas drive-through experience.

Prizes will be awarded after dark as follows: First place – three-night camping stay at a walk-in campsite in the park; Second place – two-night camping stay at a walk-in campsite in the park; Third place – one-night camping stay at a walk-in campsite in the park.