50 Nebraskaland • January-February 2021
F
or decades, visitors from around the globe have enj oyed
all that Nebraska's state parks have to offer, from
camping, fishing, hiking and boating to wildlife viewing,
living history and more. Whether you are a curious child,
nature lover, outdoors enthusiast or history buff, Nebraska's
state parks offer something to enjoy year-round.
2021 is a special year for us. One hundred years ago,
Chadron State Park, the first Nebraska state park, was
founded, making this the 100th anniversary of our state
parks system. We invite you to join Nebraska Game and
Parks for a special yearlong celebration that honors our
parks' rich history and traditions and highlights current fun
opportunities, while looking ahead to an exciting future.
Nebraska state parks are working in collaboration with
partners and sponsors to develop special programming,
events and commemorative items to celebrate this milestone.
Here are a few ways you can join in the celebration this
year:
Explore the opportunities. Go to YourNEParks100.
org for information and education, events, parks history
and interactive activities such as downloadable coloring
pages, interactive maps and
other ways to share your parks
memories and stories. Find us on social media with the
hashtag #NEParks100.
Kick off the year with a
2021 commemorative state
park permit. This year's state
park permits received an eye-
catching upgrade, with a
beautiful photo of Chadron
State Park. Buy a permit and
enjoy access to state parks
during this special year.
Visit a state park for a fun event. The centennial
celebration will include 100 themed events across the state,
including organized hikes, educational events, fun runs, car
shows and more.
Challenge Yourself. A new challenge, Your Parks
Adventure, will inspire guests to share their park experiences
and build lifelong memories with the chance to win exciting
experiences and prizes. Or, take part in the state's popular
official Nebraska Travel Passport program and visit each
of the featured parks for a chance to win prizes from
Nebraska Tourism.
Watch engaging stories about our parks' history.
Tune in to a special documentary on Nebraska Educational
Television showcasing Nebraska's state historical parks,
airing in late spring 2021. Stay tuned for more information
on this special show.
Play games to win prizes. In collaboration with
Nebraska Lottery, a new scratch lottery ticket celebrating
By Christy Firestone
NGPC
LIBRARY
Swimming beach at Chadron State Park, circa late 1930s.
Celebrate the Nebraska
State Parks 100th
Anniversary with Us
50 N b k l d J F
Kic
2021
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