I don’t know about you, but summer time to me means long hours in the sun, no school (until summer classes begin), and of course, vacations. Granted, as we get older, summer becomes less “stay at home and play outside all day” and more “work, pay bills, work”. With adulthood rapidly approaching and only a few free summers left, I don’t want to waste it.
Unfortunately, student loans, rent, everyday living expenses and responsibility creep up quickly, and that 10-day getaway to somewhere tropical is simply not in the budget. Lucky for me, Nebraska offers some pretty fantastic “staycation” getaways that won't empty your pocket.
One in particular stands above the rest. Located roughly 20-30 minutes from the heart of Omaha, Eugene T. Mahoney State Park is the premier state park of the region. My family has gone every year without fail and some of my fondest memories stem from this park along the Platte River bluffs.
In addition to offering camping spots for both tenting and RVs, Mahoney State Park has amenities for those who prefer not to rough it with nature. The Park features a large lodge-- named the Peter Kiewit Lodge--that acts as a hotel and houses a restaurant. Fully furnished cabins are also available to rent throughout the entire year if sleeping on the ground isn't your cup of tea (bonus: they come with heat and air condition!). But, if you truly want the full camping experience, Mahoney does offers excellent camping areas in a safe environment (electrical hooks up and restrooms within walking distance so you can choose just how “man vs. wild” you want to be).
While finding somewhere to lay your head is important, having things to do for the other 15 hours of the day is equally as vital. While I could go in depth about each of the activities Mahoney has to offer, ill spare you my personal stories and memories and simply list them out:
- Golf, Miniature Golf, Disc Golf
- The park features a driving range, which is as close as ill ever get to actually playing golf.
- “Activity Center”
- A.K.A. giant indoor playground (not sure on age limit--worth asking for those who are still kids at heart. *cough, cough-me*).
- Hiking Trails
- Full disclosure, I did get lost on a hiking trail once, but that’s a story for another day.
- Skating Pavilion
- Turns into ice skating for the winter months.
- Horse Trail Rides
- I’m personally not a huge fan of horseback riding, but I hear its pretty fantastic.
- Theater
- Features Melodramas three times a week; plus you get to throw popcorn when the villain appears. Come on!
- Arts and Crafts Center
- If you like arts and crafts like me, this is the location. They offer ceramic pottery you can paint and lacquer as well as metal and leather jewelry making.
- Owen Marina
- You can rent paddleboats or grab some ice cream.
- Swimming Pool/Water Park
- Features a large wave pool, water slides, sun deck, concessions, diving area, zero-entry, etc.
- My sister and I drive the 15 minutes multiple times in the summer just to spend the day at this water park!
Now I know this might sound like a sponsored article promoting Mahoney State Park, but this has truly been my favorite Nebraska destinations for years. State parks tend to be underrated for those “activities seekers” or those with children who worry about keeping them entertained. I can personally attest that this is one Park that doesn’t lack in attractions. Spend a day, or spend a week; you won't find a better Nebraska region to have your “Staycation”.
For more information on Eugene T. Mahoney State Park and other State Parks, visit: http://outdoornebraska.gov/mahoney/
Love,
-A
