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Find fireworks - or a quiet escape - on July 4

A silhouette of a man wearing a cowboy hat, watching a brilliant firework in the sky

Nebraska's state park areas are perfect for celebrating Independence Day! Save time and purchase your park permit in advance, if you haven’t already. 

This year, fireworks are allowed at three parks, in certain areas only: Branched Oak, Pawnee and Wagon Train state recreation areas. Learn more at the link below!

If solitude and quiet is what you're seeking, RV camping may still be available. Consider Merritt Reservoir with its exceptional starry skies; the scenic, forested bluffs of Indian Cave; or the breathtaking, hidden beauty of Niobrara State Park. 

Learn more

A biologist holds up a large channel catfish found in Nebraska

Larger channel catfish will be stocked soon

Mark your calendars: A unique fishing opportunity is coming soon. The week of July 7, Nebraska Game and Parks will release larger channel catfish in select waters. These hatchery-raised fish measure about 15 inches in length — about 5 inches longer than the typical catfish that we stock.   

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Reenactors prepare to fire a cannon at Fort Kearny State Recreation Area.

See Nebraska history come alive over July 4 weekend

Experience something unique this Fourth of July: seeing history come alive at Fort Kearny State Historical Park. Visitors can glimpse sights and sounds from the fort's early days while chatting with passionate reenactors, watching cannons fire and exploring exhibits and reconstructed buildings.

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A buck trots through a wooded area in Nebraska

Residents can purchase big game permits over-the-counter starting July 9

Heads up, Nebraska residents and landowners: If you're interested in buying elk, deer or antelope permits over-the-counter, the purchase period begins July 9 and lasts through the close of the season. Options depend on availability and permit limits. Learn more in the 2025 Big Game Guide.  

Learn more

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UPCOMING EVENTS

A woman grins while holding up her watercolor of some Nebraska wildflowers

Express your creativity at Wildcat Hills event

Nebraska's native wildflowers are gorgeous — and the perfect muse for your own creativity. Enjoy a relaxing morning of learning and painting June 28 at Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area.

Learn more

An elegant, historical-looking hallway inside Arbor Lodge Mansion.

Quilts of Valor on display starting July 1

Looking for a great reason to visit the elegant Arbor Lodge Mansion? From July 1-31, you can view a collection of patriotic quilts, honoring our veterans. It's a great way to celebrate July 4!

Learn more

Close-up look at a dragonfly captured in a small plastic vial, before being released

Discover the outdoors on Saturdays at Two Rivers

In the mood to explore, or learn about nature? On many upcoming Saturdays — including this weekend — Two Rivers State Recreation Area offers fascinating outdoor workshops.  

See events

POPULAR ONLINE

An angler attempts to snag a paddlefish near Gavins Point Dam.

Apply for paddlefish permits July 1-14

Take your chance to experience a truly unique fishing experience: snagging paddlefish this October along the Missouri River. Applications are accepted July 1-14 starting at 1 p.m. CT.

Learn more

A sandhill crane on the Platte River extends its wings.

Startling wildlife facts, by the numbers

Did you know a male moth can scent a female from as far as 7 miles away? Read more about this and other amazing nature facts, thanks to Game and Parks educator Monica Macoubrie.

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A boy holds a largemouth bass caught in summer.

How to beat the heat and keep catching fish

Summer is here, and the temperatures show it. Try fishing during cooler parts of the day, like early mornings or late evenings. It's good for you and your chances of fishing success!

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