25 Years and
Counting
Eugene T. Mahoney State
Park Celebrates
Photos and story by Jeff Kurrus
B
ecause Nebraska Game and Parks Commission's Roger
Kuhn has seen the development of Eugene T. Mahoney
State Park since its opening 25 years ago, it was
natural to ask him about its impact on the state of Nebraska.
"Millions of people have visited Mahoney since 1991," Kuhn
responded. "Family vacations, reunions, weddings, birthdays,
anniversaries, an event or retreat. A day at the pool, horseback
ride, walk a trail, participate in educational programs or
staying overnight. It's about how Mahoney has touched lives
in a positive way, how it's provided millions an opportunity to
make lifetime memories."
Here are a few memories to share, serving as a reminder to
visit and create our own.
■
TOP: Eugene T. Mahoney State Park,
named after the former Nebraska state
senator, director of the Game and Parks
Commission and executive director of the
Henry Doorly Zoo Foundation, overlooks
the Platte River Valley in Cass County
near Ashland. At 690 acres, the park is
open year-round and has hosted millions
of visitors since its opening in 1991.
LEFT: A family watches the wave pool at
the Family Aquatic Center, open Memorial
Day through Labor Day.
OPPOSITE: The Peter Kiewit Lodge has
40 guest rooms for lodging, meeting
rooms for conferences, workshops and
other group events, and The Lodge
Restaurant.
54 NEBRASKAland • JUNE 2016