When European explorers first encountered the Nebraska Sandhills, they dubbed it the Great American Desert. It’s understandable, given that the entire area is composed of sand dunes anchored with grasses. But the Sandhills are far from barren and dry. A number of lakes dot the landscape; one of the most impressive of these is at Victoria Springs State Recreation Area. This beautiful place, six miles east of Anselmo, has been called an oasis in the midst of the Sandhills.

Victoria Springs is the third-oldest area in Nebraska's state parks system, having been established in 1925.
flickr/John Lillis
Back then, the area was prized for the mineral springs it was named after. In fact, the clear, delicious mineral water was once bottled and sold across the United States.
The land was once part of the homestead of Custer County judge Charles R. Matthews, one of the earliest settlers in the area.
flickr/emc2serv
In 1875, the community of New Helena was established in the area that is now Victoria Springs SRA.
Two log buildings were constructed on the site: the post office and postmaster's residence.
Solomon Butcher via Library of Congress
The post office was in service from 1875 to 1910. These buildings still stand today as part of the recreation area.

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A one-room schoolhouse still stands on the town site as well.
flickr/John Lillis
A Chinese elm-lined walkway leads up to the cute little white building, complete with its bell in the tower.
Today, the area is prized for its peaceful camping sites, great fishing, and pure natural beauty.
Visit Nebraska
A wooden footbridge connects the 60 camp sites to the picnic and day-use area. Victoria Springs also has two lovely little cabins that you can rent if camping isn't your thing.
No matter when you visit, Victoria Springs is an unexpectedly lush and picturesque part of Nebraska.
John Lillis
In the summer, paddleboating is a wonderful way to see the sights around the lake. In the fall, the many trees put on an unforgettable show.

Victoria Springs is one of those places that goes largely unnoticed in favor of the larger, more popular parks and recreation sites. But this sweet little oasis in the Great American Desert has something for everyone to enjoy.

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