Enjoying a picturesque location along the banks of the Niobrara River, Niobrara State Park is a beautiful public recreational space in northeastern Nebraska.
Spanning over 1,000 acres it is known for the incredible views it presents of the river and surrounding bluffs, which provide a serene environment to relax and unwind.
It is also a very popular destination for outdoor recreational activities like hiking, fishing, canoeing and kayaking. While the park additionally houses several historical sites, including the Niobrara State Park Fish Hatchery, which dates back to the early 1900s.
Many people come here for day trips from South Sioux City. But for those who come on weekend getaways, or longer vacations, there are two modern campgrounds onsite that offer a mix of powered and primitive RV and tent camping options.
Activities
This fabulous Nebraska state park enables visitors to enjoy its wonderful landscape in a myriad of ways.
Presented below is a quick synopsis of some of the most popular things you can see and do during your time at Niobrara State Park.
Boating at Niobrara State Park
Niobrara State Park offers a variety of opportunities for boating, canoeing, and kayaking on the Niobrara River.
Flowing through the heart of the park, the river offers both calm stretches for leisurely paddling and more challenging rapids for adventurous boaters.
Park visitors can bring their own boats, canoes, or kayaks, or rent them from nearby outfitters. Rentals are available for a full day or half-day, and shuttle service is available to transport boaters to and from different access points along the river.
Guided river tours at Niobrara State Park
For those who prefer to explore the river with a guided tour, several local outfitters offer guided trips that include equipment rental, transportation, and even lunch or dinner. These tours are a great way to learn about the history and ecology of the Niobrara River and its surrounding landscape.
While on the river, visitors can enjoy scenic views of the park’s towering bluffs, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife, which includes river otters, and bighorn sheep.
Fishing at Niobrara State Park
Fishing is a popular activity at Niobrara State Park, with the Niobrara River offering excellent opportunities for anglers.
The river is stocked with several species of fish, including rainbow, brook, brown and smallmouth bass. In addition, the park also has a fishing pond near the campground that is stocked with trout, making it a great option for novice anglers and families with young children.
Anglers can fish from the riverbank, wade in the water, or cast a line from a boat. There are several boat ramps available throughout the park to help you get on the water.
During the course of the year, the park also hosts several fishing events including a Trout Derby in the spring and a Catfish Tournament in the summer. These events are a great way to meet other anglers and compete for prizes, whilst doing what you love.
Hiking at Niobrara State Park
Niobrara State Park offers several hiking trails that wind through the park’s stunning landscapes, giving visitors an opportunity to experience the beauty of the Missouri River and the surrounding hills.
Overall, the park has over 14 miles of trails that vary in length and difficulty. One of the most well trodden paths is the 3.5-mile Niobrara Trail. This leads hikers along the bluffs of the Missouri River and offers breathtaking views of the river valley below.
Another popular trail is the 1.5-mile Ponderosa Trail, which winds through a pine forest and offers a peaceful respite from the heat of the summer sun.
For those seeking a more challenging hike, the 8.5-mile River Trail provides a longer and more strenuous trek. This trail takes hikers through rugged terrain and provides spectacular views of the river valley.
Picnicking at Niobrara State Park
For those wanting to enjoy a picnic, Niobrara State Park offers many beautiful and well-maintained areas for visitors to dine.
All up there are more than 20 picnic shelters with tables and grills that can be reserved for large groups, family gatherings, or events.
In addition to the picnic shelters, the park also has plenty of open grassy areas with picnic tables and fire pits.
Pets
Pets are allowed in designated areas at Niobrara State Park, although there are some rules and regulations that you should be aware of if you intend to bring your dog with you.
This includes them being restrained on a leash throughout the entire duration of their visit, as well as being clean up after they made a mess.
Unless they are a service dog, they are also not permitted in certain buildings.
For a thorough rundown of the park’s pet policy it is worth contacting the main office.
Camping
Camping at Niobrara State Park is a popular activity, with several options available for those who want to stay for a few nights.
All up, the park has two campgrounds, one of which is located near the river, with the other offering stunning views of the water and surrounding bluffs.
The Riverfront Campground has 69 camping pads with electrical hookups, as well as several tent camping areas. It also features modern restroom and shower facilities, as well as a dump station for RVs.
In addition, this campground has a playground, volleyball court, and horseshoe pits for guests to enjoy.
The other facility is the Buffalo Ridge Campground , which is located in a more secluded area of the park. It presents 10 primitive camping sites, as well as a picnic shelter and restroom facilities.
Park Location
Niobrara State Park
89261 522 Ave
Niobrara, NE 68760
Phone: 402.857.3373
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Niobrara State Park:
Leave A Comment