There's A Little-Known State Recreation Area Just Waiting For Nebraska Explorers
By Delana Lefevers|Published October 11, 2022
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Delana Lefevers
Author
As a lifelong Nebraskan, Delana loves discovering the many hidden treasures of her state. She has worked as a writer and editor since 2007. Delana's work has been featured on more than a dozen websites and in Nebraska Life Magazine.
If you’re looking for underrated adventures, Nebraska never disappoints. On the eastern edge of the state, Schramm Park State Recreation Area and Education Center is a can’t-miss gem that people tend to overlook in favor of the nearby higher-profile destinations like Mahoney State Park, the SAC Museum, and Platte River State Park. But don’t dismiss this humble recreation area – it’s full of incredible places to explore and things to learn.
Schramm Park State Recreation Area is located midway between Omaha and Lincoln off of Hwy 31 in Gretna.
The small building may not have been the most exciting part of the park, but we have to admit it has a certain nostalgic charm in our memories.
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The park underwent a massive overhaul in 2019, and the indoor center was completely rebuilt. It's now a state-of-the-art facility called the Schramm Education Center.
The education center is packed with informative displays on Nebraska's native fish, amphibian, and reptile species. Massive indoor aquariums and live animal displays are just part of the fun. Interactive displays, crafting spaces, a reading nook, and more await curious visitors.
There are also virtual reality mountain bikes that let you ride the park's trails without dealing with the elements. It's a memorable experience that's perfect for cyclists who aren't quite ready to take their bikes out into the woods just yet.
But if the weather permits and you're up for an outdoor adventure, we highly recommend exploring the outdoor portion of Schramm Park. Visit the Fish Hatchery Museum and canyon ponds, feed the fish, and enjoy incredible Platte River Valley views.
There are three miles of trails to explore around the grounds, and there are neat little treasures to be found all around. Walk over the suspension bridge, spend a while in the Meditation Shelter, and enjoy an outdoor lunch at one of the picnic tables.
The trails are divided to allow each hiker to choose their own adventure. Choose the shorter 1.5-mile loop, or venture out on the wooded three-mile journey that's an absolute treasure for outdoor enthusiasts.
While you traverse the trails, keep your eyes open for this "secret" spot. It's not on the trail maps, but it's out there for you to discover. The stone benches offer a place to rest while you take in the truly beautiful surroundings.
A geological display shows the limestone and shale layers that are so common in this part of the state. You may even come across Paleozoic-era marine fossils left over from the ancient times when this entire area was under an inland sea.
There's even a river access spot for you to begin or end a canoe or kayak journey.
There’s so much more to discover at Schramm Park and the Schramm Education Center, so it’s a good thing it’s open year-round. Read more about the unique attractions, download a trail map, and plan your visit with help from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. A Nebraska parks pass is required to visit, and there is an additional fee to visit the Schramm Education Center.
Have you visited this underrated gem since its 2019 upgrade? Tell us all about your favorite parts in the comments!
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