20 NEBRASKAland • JULY 2017
By Jeff Kurrus
Being the hottest month of the year in
Nebraska, there is no better place to be
than poolside. And there are no better
places to do this than at a number of
Nebraska's state parks. Here is our list:
Chadron State Park
For visitors who like scenery as they
swim, they will be hard-pressed to find a
better location than Chadron State Park.
The spacious outdoor pool overlooks the
picturesque Pine Ridge. As a bonus, the
bath houses were renovated in 2016.
Eugene T. Mahoney State Park
This aquatic center boasts a zero entry
wave pool, two waterslides, and other
water-based activities for all ages. For
smaller crowds, visit from 6-8 p.m. during
the weekdays.
Niobrara State Park
Conveniently located near the park's
cabins, Niobrara State Park's swimming
pool offers visitors a way to cool down in
the summer-time heat. This modern pool
is handicapped accessible by a recently
installed pool lift.
Ponca State Park
Suitable for swimmers of all ages,
Ponca's new aquatic center features a
heated zero-depth entry pool, 172-foot
long water slide, climbing wall, diving
board, and spray features for small
children. Older swimmers may enjoy pool
games such as basketball and volleyball.
The bathhouse offers a concession area
for all park visitors.
Fort Robinson State Park
Rain or shine, the indoor Olympic-
sized Lindeken Pool at Fort Robinson
State Park is popular among visitors. In
addition, the outdoor wading pool and
deck caters to sun-worshippers and the
youngest of water-lovers.
Platte River State Park
This small pool offers families a quiet
setting between the towns of Louisville
and South Bend off of Highway 66. Once
you're done visiting the pool, take the
little ones down to Crawdad Creek at the
upper end of Jenny Newman Lake for
more water-related fun. ■
Poolside –
State Park Style
PHOTO
BY
JEFF
FIELDS
PHOTO
BY
ERIC
FOWLER
PHOTO
BY
JEFF
KURRUS
Mahoney State Park
Ponca State Park
Chadron State Park
