From wagon trains to road trips: discovering the history of the west at the Great Platte River Road Archway Monument in ‎⁨Kearney⁩, ⁨Nebraska

Nebraska

A Land of Possibilities

Nebraska is an amazing state but, you know what? We have not had nearly enough time to explore it! Do you have some favorite parks, trails, campsites, roads, or oddities in Nebraska? Tell us all about it!

Things To See In Nebraska

Explore the Archway Monument
Wander Scotts Bluff National Monument
Take a selfie at Carhenge

Visiting Parks In Nebraska

Nebraska may be known for its wide-open plains, but it’s also home to a surprising variety of landscapes—and some truly stunning parks. Here are a few of the top spots to explore:

Scotts Bluff National Monument – A towering landmark along the historic Oregon Trail, Scotts Bluff offers dramatic views, scenic drives, and hiking trails that showcase the region’s unique geology and pioneer history.

Chadron State Park – Nebraska’s first state park is still one of its best. Tucked into the Pine Ridge region, Chadron offers forested trails, horseback riding, and a peaceful campground nestled in the hills.

Toadstool Geologic Park – Known as “Nebraska’s Badlands,” Toadstool features otherworldly rock formations, fossil beds, and hiking trails through a surreal, windswept landscape.

Fort Robinson State Park – A historic military outpost turned adventure hub. Here, we can explore over 22,000 acres by foot, bike, horse, or Jeep—plus, learn about the site’s Native American and cavalry past.

Hiking In Nebraska

Nebraska’s trails may not be as famous as those in the Rockies or the Pacific Northwest, but they deliver big on solitude, surprising beauty, and wide-open sky. Here are some of the best hiking trails in Nebraska for a mix of scenery, geology, and peaceful exploration:

Summit Trail (Scotts Bluff National Monument) – Panoramic views from the top of this historic landmark along the Oregon Trail. It’s short but dramatic, with views stretching across the Platte River Valley.

Toadstool Loop Trail (Toadstool Geologic Park) – It’s like hiking on the moon. This loop takes you through bizarre rock formations, badlands, and fossil beds. Stay for the silence—it’s otherworldly.

Fort Robinson Trail System (Fort Robinson State Park) – Over 60 miles of multi-use trails through forested bluffs, open prairie, and historic landmarks. Great for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders alike.

Camping In Nebraska

Camping in Nebraska is all about wide-open spaces, quiet nights, and unexpected beauty. Whether we’re pitching a tent under the pine-covered bluffs of the northwest, setting up along the banks of the Missouri River, or tucking into a secluded site in the Sandhills, there’s a peaceful simplicity to camping here. State parks like Chadron, Niobrara, and Indian Cave offer well-kept campgrounds with easy access to trails and water, while more remote spots let us truly disconnect. From starry skies to crackling campfires, Nebraska makes it easy to slow down and savor the outdoors.