March 2024 • Nebraskaland 31
What to Do in March
See courting displays
of sharp-tailed grouse
March 1 to May 1 — peak dates are
March 15 to April 15
Niobrara State Park
Experience the natural wonder of the sharp-
tailed grouse's mating dance. Niobrara State
Park's viewing blind can hold up to 12 guests;
reserve a spot by calling the park offi ce at
402-857-3373. To view this sunrise ritual, you
can stay overnight at one of the park's fully
equipped cabins or electric campsites. Use
promo code "SHARPTAIL24" on our reservation
system — nebraskastateparks.reserveamerica.
com — for a discounted rate on weekends.
Weekdays are pre-discounted during the off -
season.
ERIC FOWLER, NEBRASKALAND
Start your sandhill crane driving
tour from Mormon Island
Numbers peak mid- to late March | Mormon Island State
Recreation Area
Mormon Island State Recreation Area is a great basecamp for viewing
sandhill cranes, with electric camping options to stay overnight. While
you may not see sandhill cranes in the park itself, many options are
close by, including the Crane Trust Nature and Visitor Center, about 5
miles west of the park. Another great viewing spot is Platte River Drive,
which can be accessed 3 miles south of the park. Stop by the park kiosk
to grab a detailed map of driving routes for viewing cranes. For more
information, call the park at 308-385-6211.
ERIC FOWLER, NEBRASKALAND
View northern painted turtles
March throughout the summer | Statewide
One of the most common turtles in Nebraska, the northern painted
turtle can often be found sunning itself on rocks and logs along the
edges of ponds and lakes. Turtles cannot produce their own body heat
like mammals, so they rely on other sources to stay warm. Venture to a
lake or pond to spot one — or several — painted turtles.
JUSTIN HAAG, NEBRASKALAND
