Schramm Park State Recreation Area Nebraska
A Nebraska gem offering family fun with a new natural pool, easy hiking trails, and educational exhibits by the Platte River.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Schramm Park State Recreation Area Nebraska
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Nebraska gem offering family fun with a new natural pool, easy hiking trails, and educational exhibits by the Platte River.
"Such an amazing state park! The hiking trails are beautiful and safe. The geese are always a favorite to see!"
Bring quarters for fish food
Feed the fish in the new natural pool for a fun, interactive experience! :coin:
Wear comfortable shoes
Trails are well-maintained but exploring requires good walking shoes. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Canyon Ponds & Natural Pool
Main park area
Wade in cool waters, spot tadpoles, and feed fish in this newly renovated natural play area. Perfect for kids!
Hiking Trails
Various trailheads
Explore miles of trails with beautiful views of the Platte River and surrounding nature. Easy inclines make it great for all ages.
Fish Hatchery Museum
Education Center
Discover local aquatic life and learn about the area's natural history. A fun and educational stop for curious minds.
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Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Heat
Park Amenities & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring quarters for fish food
Feed the fish in the new natural pool for a fun, interactive experience! :coin:
Wear comfortable shoes
Trails are well-maintained but exploring requires good walking shoes. :athletic_shoe:
Pack a picnic
Plenty of shaded picnic tables available for a relaxing meal amidst nature. :sandwich:
Check for prescribed burns
Sometimes parts of the park are closed or smoky due to controlled burns for habitat management. :fire:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring quarters for fish food
Feed the fish in the new natural pool for a fun, interactive experience! :coin:
Wear comfortable shoes
Trails are well-maintained but exploring requires good walking shoes. :athletic_shoe:
Pack a picnic
Plenty of shaded picnic tables available for a relaxing meal amidst nature. :sandwich:
Check for prescribed burns
Sometimes parts of the park are closed or smoky due to controlled burns for habitat management. :fire:
Water bottle refill station
Find the water bottle filler at the education center to stay hydrated. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Schramm Park's family-friendly amenities, particularly the new natural pool for wading and fish feeding. The well-maintained hiking trails and scenic views are also frequently praised. Some mention ongoing habitat management like prescribed burns, which is a positive for long-term ecological health.
"Such an amazing state park! The hiking trails are beautiful and safe. The geese are always a favorite to see! The new area where kids can wade in and look for minnows and other creatures is super cool. There are nice bathrooms, a water bottle filler, a playground, tons of tables to picnic at, and plenty of shade everywhere. Definitely a state park worth visiting."
Liz Martinez
"I love this park I could spend hours feeding the fish in the ponds. In the spring the ponds also have hundreds of tadpoles. They finished their remodel this year adding a stream you can play in. The aquarium at the main building is also fun. When I went the catfish had a habit of laying in a wierd spot. They had to put a sign up letting people know "he is resting and not dead". I recommend this park to everyone."
Cassie Predmore
"This is a nice little state park in Nebraska. It has a decent trail with great views. It also has a nice playground. The river is closed by. They just built a natural pool from a nearby spring that contains fish; for a quarter one can feed the fish. It looks like a great place for a picnic as well."
Karel Justo Marquez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Schramm Park is located south of Gretna, Nebraska, near the Platte River. It's easily accessible by car and is a popular destination for those looking for hiking and outdoor activities around Omaha.
Yes, it's a well-known park in the area. Follow signs for Schramm Park Road from Highway 31 or Highway 6.
The park is best explored on foot via its hiking trails. There's also a bike repair station at the pond trailhead for cyclists.
Public transport options are limited for reaching Schramm Park. It's primarily a destination for those traveling by personal vehicle.
Schramm Park is a short drive from Omaha, typically around 30-40 minutes depending on your starting point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Schramm Park State Recreation Area typically has a per-vehicle entrance fee, similar to other Nebraska State Parks. Check the official Nebraska Game and Parks Commission website for current fees.
The park is generally open year-round from sunrise to sunset. Specific facilities like the education center may have limited hours.
No, advance booking is not usually required for general park entry. You pay the entrance fee upon arrival.
Yes, Nebraska State Parks offer annual permits that cover entrance fees for the entire year, which can be cost-effective if you plan to visit multiple parks.
Yes, you can feed the fish in the new natural pool area for a small fee (usually a quarter per feeding). :coin:
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Schramm Park offers about 3 miles of trails with easy inclines, great for a morning hike. They provide nice views and are suitable for all ages.
Yes, there is a playground available for children, making it a family-friendly destination.
The new natural pool is a stream area where kids can wade, look for minnows, and interact with aquatic life. It's a highlight for families during warmer months.
While there's a wading area, swimming in the traditional sense might not be permitted. The focus is on exploring and interacting with the natural water features.
Absolutely! Schramm Park has numerous picnic tables and shelters, making it an ideal spot for a family picnic.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants within Schramm Park itself. Visitors typically bring their own food for picnics.
The closest dining options will be in nearby towns like Gretna or Ashland. Consider packing a picnic to enjoy at the park's facilities.
While specific grilling facilities aren't always highlighted, picnic areas are plentiful. It's best to check park regulations regarding open flames.
Snacks are not typically sold within the park. It's recommended to bring all your food and drinks with you.
Sandwiches, salads, fruits, and easy-to-eat snacks are perfect for a picnic. Don't forget drinks! :sandwich:
📸 📸 Photography
The Platte River views, the natural pool with fish, and the diverse plant and animal life offer great photographic opportunities.
Yes, you can often spot geese and other birdlife, especially near the ponds. The new wading area also provides close-up shots of aquatic creatures.
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones.
Drone usage is subject to park regulations. It's advisable to check with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission for current rules regarding drone operation in state recreation areas.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for general shots. For wildlife, a telephoto lens can be beneficial. A wide-angle lens is good for landscapes. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The playground provides additional entertainment, and the easy hiking trails are perfect for little legs. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many shaded tables, making it an affordable and fun day out. Don't forget to visit the fish hatchery museum for an educational element. The park's focus on interactive nature experiences makes it a memorable outing for children. Remember to bring quarters for fish food and water bottles to refill at the education center.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the park's efforts in habitat management, including prescribed burns, which contribute to a healthier ecosystem. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as geese and various bird species. The park's proximity to the river also adds to its natural appeal.
💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own picnic lunch is highly recommended, as there are no dining facilities within the park, saving you money on expensive meals. The opportunity to feed the fish for a quarter is a low-cost, high-fun activity that kids will love.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Natural Pool and Fish Hatchery
Adjacent to this is the fish hatchery museum, which offers a glimpse into the area's aquatic ecosystems and the history of fish management. While the park may no longer function as an active hatchery, the museum provides valuable insights into the local fish species and their habitats. It's a great place to learn something new and appreciate the biodiversity of Nebraska's waterways.
Pro-tip: Bring quarters for the fish feeding stations! It's a small cost for a lot of fun and a memorable experience for kids. The educational center also houses the water bottle filler, so plan your visit accordingly.
Hiking and Nature Trails
Recent park management efforts have included prescribed burning to improve forest habitat. While this might cause temporary smoke or openness in certain areas, it's a long-term strategy for healthier ecosystems. After a few years, the vegetation is expected to grow back, enhancing the natural beauty.
Key features of the trails include benches for resting, and some areas are now more open to the sky due to invasive species management. The park also features a unique bike repair station at the pond trailhead, equipped with tools and a pump, catering to cyclists who enjoy the park's paths.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit