Game and Parks continues to reopen pools, education centers and state park facilities

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission announced recently the continued reopening of several facilities, activities and amenities in state park and recreation areas across the state.

They include:

Most Nebraska state park swimming pools, aquatic centers and the Platte River State Park spray park reopened July 4. Pools will open with limited hours and operate at reduced capacity. Hours of operation can be found at OutdoorNebraska.org. The swimming pool at Niobrara State Park will remain closed. The floating playground at Louisville State Recreation Area will open later.

Select state park area service centers reopened to the public July 1 for customer service, information and permit sales.

July 4, the paddleboats at Mahoney and Platte River state parks will reopen, as will the Owen Marina concessions and miniature golf at Mahoney.

The Nebraska Game and Parks Outdoor Education in Lincoln reopened July 6. The Wildcat Hills Shooting Range opened July 1 and the archery range in the Eric Wiebe Shooting Complex at Ponca State Park continues to be open.

The Wildcat Hills Nature Center, Schramm Education Center, Water Interpretive Center at Lake McConaughy, and Missouri National Recreation River Interpretive Center at Ponca State Park reopened July 6.

State historical park interpretive centers also reopened July 6. While the historical parks will be open some facilities may remain closed, including the Buffalo Bill Ranch house, Bowring Ranch House and Fort Hartsuff visitor’s center.

A list of all services opening can be found at OutdoorNebraska.gov/healthinfo.

Additionally, Game and Parks will begin hosting some educational and naturalist programs on a limited basis. Contact the park or check the outdoor calendar at Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov for scheduled events.

Visitors to offices, interpretive centers, education centers, nature centers and indoor events are temporarily required to wear a face mask.

Game and Parks is continuing to make services and amenities available and is committed to keeping the public and its staff safe during the COVID-19 health crisis. For more information or to purchase a park entry permit, persons can go to OutdoorNebraska.org.