NEBRASKAland Magazine is dedicated to outstanding photography and informative writing with an engaging mix of articles and photos highlighting Nebraska’s outdoor activities, parklands, wildlife, history and people.
Issue link: http://mag.outdoornebraska.gov/i/999185
22 NEBRASKAland • JULY 2018 Danish Alps SRA features an equestrian campground complete with corrals, hitching posts and easy access to water. These horses belong to Randy and Lisa Gallup of Crescent, Iowa, who love to horse camp. T ucked away among the rolling hills of Dakota County, Danish Alps State Recreation Area (SRA) derives its name from the early Danish pioneers who first settled in the area. Its creation was part of a two-fold plan by the Papio-Missouri Natural Resource District (NRD): to stabilize the Pigeon/Jones Creek Watershed and to build the most thoughtfully planned recreation area possible. Plans for the SRA were drawn up in the fall of 2009, and the park officially opened its gates on Aug. 1, 2015. Three years later, this outdoor recreation oasis is becoming a jewel of the northeast. Its 219-acre lake and 520 acres of parkland offer something for everyone. The discerning fisherman, the adventurous kayaker, the overnight horse rider or the hunter looking for a mixed-bag opportunity – all will find sanctuary here. Hubbard resident Vince Kramper, a longtime board member of the Papio- Missouri NRD and the Nebraska Environmental Trust, was the project's greatest champion. The SRA's Kramper Lake was naturally named after him, and it now offers excellent opportunities for anglers to catch eating-size black crappies, bluegills and largemouth bass. Other stocked fish include channel catfish and walleyes. Rock breakwaters and a wetlands complex provide habitat to both fish and fowl, while Kramper Lake's diverse underwater structures and varying depths benefit both fish and fisherman. The lake reaches 45 feet deep in some areas and was designed for both the shoreline and boat angler in mind. The 40-foot boat launch ramp and large fishing pier are ADA accessible, and a fish cleaning station was built this year. Roads are also maintained throughout the winter for the dedicated hard water angler. Located far away enough from the big city, but close enough for the spontaneous day tripper or weekend warrior, Danish Alps draws in people from all directions. Both modern and primitive campers will find comfort here, while the traveling equestrian will appreciate the amenities for man and beast. With 14 horse corrals, hitching posts and convenient access to water, the equestrian campground is becoming more popular every year. Modern restrooms and showers are bonuses for all. For those looking for a more remote experience, all it takes is a short paddle from the boat ramp. Six recently added kayak-in campsites offer a quiet, secluded haven for kayakers and canoers. But pack light – the only way to get to these campsites is by water or backpacking.