Platte River State Park Trails

This facility offers a wide range of activities and lodging choices, while keeping costs to a minimum.

The park sits about halfway between the state's two largest cities of Omaha and Lincoln. The 418-acre park merged what were once three separate areas — Harriet Harding Campfire Girls Camp, Camp Esther K. Newman, and a 104-acre wooded area.

Activities range from swimming at the supervised pool to guided horseback trail rides through the timbered hills. Sights to see include the quaint Red Barn (converted to a group camp) and a charming little waterfall. Recreational equipment is available at Owen Landing, where you can rent a paddleboat to churn around Jenny Newman Lake. At sunset, free campfire programs that change regularly are scheduled at the amphitheater. Visitors also can climb to the top of the 85-foot Lincoln Journal Tower, a large observation deck that gives you a view in any direction.

Quarry Oaks Championship Golf Course near the park offers a fabulous golfing experience set on the rolling wooded hills overlooking the Platte River. Contact Quarry Oaks to arrange your tee times up to 30 days in advance.

Platte River is well-equipped to handle a variety of functions for groups ranging in size up to 150 people throughout the year. Lodging facilities are limited during the winter months, since only the Housekeeping Cabins are heated.