Platte River State Park
4.7(2.3K)google
4.6(28)yelp
HikingNature
Overview
Platte River State Park is a scenic, multi-functional outdoor recreational haven situated beautifully along the bluffs of the Platte River in Ashland. Nestled between Omaha and Lincoln, this lushly forested park features deep rolling hills, natural limestone waterfalls, and two expansive observation towers that provide sweeping vistas of the river basin. Travelers can fully immerse themselves in old-school outdoor pastimes, ranging from horseback trail riding and vintage archery challenges to cozy stays in historic log cabins or vintage teepees.
Practical Info
Mon8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Tue8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Wed8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Thu8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Fri8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sat8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sun8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Suggested Duration0.5-1 day
Best TimeLate spring to early summer (May to June) is optimal, featuring lush forest trails and active waterfalls. Hikers should head out in the early morning when the air is crisp and birdwatching is at its peak before midday temperatures rise.
Getting ThereLocated south of Ashland. Drive from Lincoln or Omaha on I-80 to Exit 426, take NE-66 E, then turn right onto 310th Street (Spur 13A). Follow the signs for approximately 3 miles to find the park's northern gateway.
Travel Tips
- Steep river-bluff clay singletracks require deep-lugged hiking boots; casual low-traction lifestyle footwear will fail on wet silt slopes, posing slide injury risks.
- The slippery splash zone around Stone Creek Waterfall is coated in organic biofilm; scaling protective split-rail fencing for portrait framing is a punishable violation.
- Platte River overlook trails swarms with deer ticks transmitting Lyme disease during late-summer golden hour shifts; complete chemical treatment of lower clothing is vital.
Reviews
Positive
- The natural scenery is beautiful with dense wooded hiking trails and a charming waterfall. The lookout tower offers stunning views of the Platte River.
- Compared to the neighboring Mahoney Park, this place is much quieter and more rustic, offering a low-commercialized escape into raw nature.
- The water activities and family facilities are well-planned; the small kids' splash pad is very safe and kayaking here is a lot of fun.
- The entry is included in the state park permit, making it highly affordable. Picnic areas are well-equipped with ample shade and clean tables.
Heads up
- Some hiking trails have steep terrain and dirt paths that become extremely muddy after rain, and trail markers can be hard to spot deep in the woods.
- Some of the older rental cabins have outdated equipment, average mattress comfort, and bug/mosquito issues, requiring your own bug spray.
- Due to the topography, cellular signal is weak or completely non-existent at remote campsites and trails, requiring offline maps for driving.
- Restrooms and showers are sparsely distributed, far from certain campsites, and the hot water supply can be inconsistent during peak usage.