July packed with fun events in southeast state parks

Spend some time this summer in Nebraska’s southeast 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.

Enjoy stargazing at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park

Come to Eugene T. Mahoney State Park near Ashland on July 13 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 for this free event from 9-11:30 p.m. Remember to bring camp chairs or blankets.

Take a Round Raft Adventure at Schramm

Visit Schramm Park State Recreation Area near Gretna on July 16, 20 and 30 and go on a Round Raft Adventure.

Round Rafts are the perfect watercraft for floating around in a pond. Look for the Round Raft Adventure trailer in the park from 3-6 p.m. July 16, 10 a.m.-noon July 20, and 3-6 p.m. July 30.

Rafters must fit in a life jacket to participate (sizes XXS to 4XL).

Celebrate Campfire Christmas in July at Indian Cave State Park

For a touch of holiday cheer, bring the family to Indian Cave State Park near Shubert on July 26-27 for the 11th annual Campfire Christmas in July.

Between 6-8 p.m. July 26, guests can make Christmas ornaments, enjoy foot-long chili dogs and root beer floats, make walking s’mores, play flashlight reindeer pellet roundup, and take a tractor-drawn hayrack ride to Whoville.

On July 27, the Jingle Bell Junk and Craft Market will be from 1 to 6 p.m. There also will be a Yule Log Quest, Christmas-themed games, tin roof sundaes, tractor-drawn hayrack rides, water slide, half-price lifetime youth permit drawing, an outdoor movie, and Santa’s arrival on a fire truck.

Judging for the campground-decorating competition will be at 9 p.m.

Food trucks also will be on the grounds.

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