FORT KEARNEY STATE PARK
Built to protect Overland Trail travelers, Fort Kearny SHP near Kearney was a stage station, home station for the Pony Express, outfitting depot for Indian campaigns and home of the Pawnee Scouts. The stockade, parade grounds and blacksmith shop have been rebuilt.
Archeological exploration by the Nebraska State Historical Society to locate building sites and other features has helped the Commission develop the park to give visitors an insight into the conditions and events contemporary with the settlement of the American West.
This history is revealed in several exhibits in the interpretive center and in the carpenter-blacksmith shop. Walkways lead to the stockade where more information is available.
Day-UseFishingyes
Hiking Trailyes
Swimming Beachyes
Bike Trailsyes
BoatingLaunch Rampsyes
CampingElectric Sitesyes
WinterActivitiesyes
Camping is available at nearby Fort Keany State Recreation Area. Campers will find south-central Nebraska's Fort Kearny State Recreation Area much to their liking. The attractive 152-acre area is located 3/4 mile east and 1 mile north of Fort Kearny State Historical Park.
Camping Facilities:75 camping pads with electrical hookups*35 camping pads without electricity*20/30 - 50 1-year advance reservable campsites
Fort Kearny is a year-round recreation area that provides modern camping. There are showers and modern restrooms, plus a trailer dump station. Stately cottonwood trees, some over 100 years old, shade much of the camping area.
All campers must register. Reservations are accepted. Reservations are taken for 50% of the modern camping. Reservations are taken up to 1 year in advance of arrival day.
Enjoy fishing in two sandpit lakes, home to largemouth bass, bluegill and channel catfish. A valid Nebraska permit is required.
Fort Kearney State Park is located near Kearney
1. Fort Kearney State Park offers numerous picnic tables and grills for a perfect family outing.
2. Enjoy picnicking by the scenic lakeside with available shelters in case of rain.
3. The park provides spacious grassy areas ideal for blanket picnics or outdoor games.
4. Picnic packs can be rented, including charcoal grill supplies at the visitor center.
Cycling enthusiasts should be aware that options are limited. There is a short, paved trail suitable for casual biking. However, it's important to note there aren't any challenging mountain bike trails available here.
The park does not offer bicycle rentals so remember to bring your own equipment if you plan on cycling during your visit.
Also bear in mind the area can get quite busy with pedestrians and families at peak times which may affect cyclists' speed and maneuverability.
Always exercise caution when sharing paths with walkers or wildlife who also frequent this scenic spot.
Driving directions for Fort Kearny SHPTo get to Fort Kearny State Historical Park, you would take I-80 to the Minden exit, 279 south on Hwy 10 for 3 miles. Next, turn west onto Hwy 50A for 3 miles. Or from the Kearney exit, 272 south on Hwy 44 for 2 miles. Then east on Hwy 50A for 4 miles. Fort Kearny State Recreation Area, 1 mile east and 1 mile north of the Historical Park.