⚠️ Active alertThe south bridge on the Fort Kearny SRA hike-bike trail will be temporarily closed beginning Monday, July 6. The bridge is expected to remain closed for approximately one week while repairs to sections of the bridge decking are completed.
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Fort Kearny Master Plan establishes a framework for cohesive future park improvements, while preserving existing uses valued by visitors, staff and volunteers. Learn about the vision for the park in the Fort Kearny Master Plan found on our Publications page under Agency Plans. Thank you to everyone that contributed to the planning process for Fort Kearny.
The Fort Kearny State Recreation Area hike/bike trail is 1.8 miles. Julie Geiser, Nebraskaland Magazine/Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Fort Kearny State Recreation Area offers good fishing opportunities to guests. Julie Geiser, Nebraskaland Magazine/Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Kayaking during the Outdoor Discovery Program at Fort Kearny State Recreation Area. Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
People relax around a campfire in the RV campground at Fort Kearny State Recreation Area in Kearney County. Eric Fowler, Nebraskaland Magazine/Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
A family goes for a bike ride at Fort Kearny State Recreation Area in Kearney County. Julie Geiser, Nebraskaland Magazine/Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
With nearly 100 camping spots and seven ponds to fish in there is plenty to do at Fort Kearny State Recreation Area. Julie Geiser, Nebraskaland Magazine/Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
Fort Kearny State Recreation Area is an excellent place to view sandhill cranes during spring migration. The bridges over the Platte River on the hike-bike trail are a popular place to observe them at dusk and dawn.
The interpretive center at adjoining Fort Kearny State Historical Park also is open daily during peak migration and serves as an information center for crane viewers.
The unique Fort Kearny Hike-Bike Trail begins at the park and extends 1.8 miles to Bassway Strip Wildlife Management Area, crossing both channels of the Platte River on what once was a segment of the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad. The bridges over the river are a popular spot for Sandhill crane viewing during spring migration. During winter, these trails are popular with cross-country skiers.
Flora and fauna of the Platte Valley also can be enjoyed from this trail or from another that follows the old 1864 river channel. A trail map is available at the Fort Kearny State Historical Park visitor center.