48 Nebraskaland • April 2021
nder the headline of "Western Eden,"
the front page of the July 8, 1921,
Chadron Journal proclaimed that the
Nebraska Legislature had "builded better than
it knew" by creating its fi rst state park.
"For years to come all of Nebraska's
citizendom can point with honest pride to
Nature's play ground near its western boundary.
It is an inspiration to view this locality, and to
walk its cool shady paths with the knowledge
that it belongs to all of us," the author wrote.
"A big credit mark is due to the future eff orts
which will be put forth to hold this spot in its
pristine beauty and we can pay tribute to the
Creator of Beauty that He gave to all Nebraska
citizens this fi rst state park."
Chadron State Park has come a long way
since Sen. James Good and Rep. George Snow
introduced the bill to what was then a two-
house legislature, but much of what attracts
people to the park has not changed. As the
newspaper article said, it's "a real beauty spot."
From the tranquil pond and babbling
coldwater stream at the park's entrance,
to the majestic rock landforms and pine-
clad vistas above, the 977-acre property
awakens the senses.
Surely, the founders would marvel at what
the park has become. Visitors can stay in one
of the 16 rustic cabins or more modern duplex
units. There's also a campground suitable for
everything from pup tents to mammoth RVs.
Trails course through the park for hiking,
biking and guided horseback rides. Visitors also
make use of the park's swimming pool, picnic
shelters, playground equipment, the Trading
Post activities center, a group event facility,
tennis courts, disc golf course and, new this
year, an indoor archery and pellet gun range.
Yes, Nebraskans can still "point with honest
pride" to Chadron State Park and how it has
enriched the citizenry and sparked a movement
to create 77 other places for people to relax, play
and explore.
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Western Eden, Where It All Began
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