Explore fun outdoor opportunities over the holiday week!

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Fireworks, an American flag and a sunset view with text "Step Outdoors"

Options for Outdoor Fun This Holiday Week

A girl goes down a big waterslide at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park

Six great places to swim at Nebraska’s state parks

If your plans for the Fourth include some time poolside or at the beach, here are six great sites across the state to explore — including everything from an aquatic center with all the amenities, to a white sand beach with plenty of shoreline.

Read more

Silhouettes of people watching fireworks

Touch off fireworks at these four state recreation areas

Want to shoot off fireworks on the Fourth? It's allowed within designated areas at four state recreation areas, or SRAs: Branched Oak SRA (at Lieber's Point), Pawnee SRA (at Area 1 beach and Area 4 Lakeview Campground), Wagon Train SRA (at beach) and Memphis SRA. Look for signs showing designated areas. Fireworks are allowed from 8 a.m. to midnight on July 4 only. See more details at the link below.

See details

A family taking a selfie in the outdoors

Hit a trail for Your Parks Adventure challenge

Time away for a holiday should definitely include time outdoors and being active. That's what you'll find with Your Parks Adventure: Trail Trek. Choose from over 45 designated trails across the state and find the selfie spot at each one, then submit your photo online for a chance at prizes. It's free to enter!

Learn more

Covers of magazine with graphic showing "2 years for $30"

Get tips on outdoor fun with Nebraskaland's Summer Special

Want to find more ways to have fun outdoors? This is your last chance to get in on this summer savings special from Nebraskaland Magazine.

For a limited time, you can get a two-year subscription (that's 20 issues) for just $30!

That's just $1.50 an issue — a savings of $3.45 off the cover price of each issue. (Sales tax added for Nebraska residents.) Grab it before it's gone!

Buy Now

Additional Opportunities

Campsite along the water at Louisville State Recreation Area

Last-minute camping opportunities

You still have time to find a place to camp this week! Follow the link below and search for a location, or click on "Available This Weekend" for more specific options.

Start your search

Young boy holding a fishing pole

Tips to get you out fishing

Casting a line is a great way to spend the Fourth. Find interactive maps of fishing spots, as well as tips on where to fish, at our website, along with resources for anglers of all skill levels.

Visit our website

Father and kids laying in a hammock at a state park

Find a park to visit

An escape to a gorgeous natural space, like a state park, could be in your future. See our "Find a Park" page, where you can select what you're looking for. Or, scroll below the map to see all options. 

Find a park

Other Things to Know

Silhouette of a girl diving into a lake at sunset

How to swim safely this Fourth

Beachgoers, here are a few things to keep in mind before you hit the water, such as: Swim with a buddy, pay attention to those swimming with you, and wear a life jacket that fits. Read more at the link below.

See more tips

Woman riding a jet ski on a lake

Our top 10 boating safety tips

Going boating soon? Follow these 10 tips to keep you and your friends safe on the water. For example, tell someone your plans, check your equipment, wear a life jacket and avoid alcohol.

Read more

Reenactors prepare to fire a cannon at Fort Atkinson

Park events this week

Find a fun state park event to attend this week! Your options include a Fourth of July celebration at Fort Robinson, living history at Fort Atkinson and a historical cavalry demonstration at Fort Robinson.

See events


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