Aug 27, 2025
Hunting on state recreation areas begins Sept. 2
Hunters are reminded Nebraska’s SRAs are closed to hunting until the Tuesday following Labor Day.
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Spend some time this summer in Nebraska’s state parks. During August, a variety of events are planned for those interested in history, nature or just having a good time outdoors. Here are several examples:
Living History Weekend at Fort Atkinson is Aug. 5-6
Step back in time Aug. 5-6 and enjoy a Living History Weekend at Fort Atkinson State Historical Park near Fort Calhoun.
Ongoing demonstrations featuring military and civilian life of the 1820s will occur throughout the park. Reenactors portray fur traders, coopers, blacksmiths, carpenters, tinsmiths, weavers and other period trades. Visitors are encouraged to interact with the reenactors.
A Nebraska park entry permit is required. Admission to the Harold W. Andersen Visitor Center is $4 for those age 13 and older and $1 for children 3-12. For more information, contact the park at ngpc.fort.atkinson@nebraska.gov or 402-468-5611.
Enjoy stargazing at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park
Come to Eugene T. Mahoney State Park near Ashland on Aug. 25 and enjoy some summer stargazing.
Telescopes will be provided so visitors may get a glimpse at the night sky beginning at dusk. Meet behind the park’s golf shack. Remember to bring camp chairs or blankets.
The event is free, but a Nebraska vehicle park entry permit is required. The rain date is Aug. 26.
Mystery at the Mansion set for Aug. 26 at Arbor Lodge
Come to Arbor Lodge State Historical Park in Nebraska City on Aug. 26 for an evening of fun with Mystery at the Manson: Sin City. This old-fashioned whodunit will take place at Arbor Lodge Mansion at 6 p.m.
Solve clues, look for evidence, and break the case while mingling with new friends. Participants will receive a character to portray as they arrive at Arbor Lodge Mansion.
Cost is $30, and space is limited for this adults-only event. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Visit the event listing at Calendar.Outdoornebraska.gov to buy tickets or for information on adding dinner or lodging.
Wildcat Hills SRA to host Night Sky program Aug. 18
Bring a blanket and lay beneath the stars during a Night Sky program Aug. 18 at Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area. Explore constellations, mythology, the importance of dark skies and much more.
This is a great opportunity to watch the Perseids meteor shower. Telescopes will be available for this event, which begins at 9 p.m. Mountain time. Meet at the Nature Center for an introduction before carpooling to the viewing location.
A Nebraska park entry permit is required.
Plenty of fun activities in August at Ponca
Ponca State Park will be busy with activities for all ages in August.
The Aquatic Center will be open daily Aug. 1-6, then just weekends until Labor Day. The hours will be 1-6 p.m. Monday-Thursday and noon-6 p.m. Friday-Sunday.
A Guided Full Moon Hike will begin at 9:15 p.m. Aug. 1 and 8 p.m. Aug. 30 on the Corp of Discovery Trail. Meet at the trailhead on the riverfront.
Kayak the Missouri River backwaters on Aug. 5. Space is limited. Registration is required; call 402-755-2284.
A Nebraska park entry permit is required.
