Our Eugene T. Mahoney State Park guide covers practical planning for Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Nebraska — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground.

Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Travel Guide — Nebraska

Welcome to Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Nebraska, a premier destination that transcends the typical state park experience. Nestled conveniently between Omaha and Lincoln, this 700-acre outdoor adventure resort along the Platte River Valley offers an unparalleled array of activities and accommodations, making it a year-round haven for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. From thrilling aquatic adventures and a challenging ropes course to serene hiking trails and comfortable lodging, our team considers it one of Nebraska's most dynamic and family-friendly parks.

Why Visit Eugene T. Mahoney State Park

Eugene T. Mahoney State Park isn't just a park; it's a comprehensive recreational hub designed for diverse interests and all ages. What truly sets it apart is the sheer variety of experiences packed into one location. We're talking about everything from an exciting aquatic center with water slides and a wave pool to an observation tower offering panoramic views of the Platte River. It’s a place where you can spend your mornings exploring nature and your afternoons tackling adventure courses, all within the park's boundaries. The park's commitment to year-round operation means that whether you're seeking summer thrills or winter wonderland activities like ice skating and sledding, Eugene T. Mahoney State Park delivers.

Beyond the activities, the park's location is a significant draw. Situated just a short drive from both Omaha and Lincoln, it offers an accessible escape from city life without sacrificing modern conveniences. This accessibility, combined with a wide range of lodging options from modern cabins to lodge rooms, makes planning a visit straightforward and enjoyable.

Who It's Best For

Eugene T. Mahoney State Park is truly designed for everyone, but certain groups will find it particularly appealing:

• **Families with Children:** With its aquatic center, indoor activity center, mini-golf, Go Ape ropes course, and pony rides, the park is a dream for families. There are activities to keep kids of all ages engaged, from toddlers to teenagers.
• **Adventure Seekers:** The Go Ape Treetop Adventure Course, with its ziplines and high-ropes crossings, provides an adrenaline rush. Climbing enthusiasts can also tackle the 42-foot indoor climbing wall.
• **Nature Lovers & Hikers:** Despite its modern amenities, the park boasts beautiful hiking trails through woodlands and grasslands, offering scenic views of the Platte River Valley. Wildlife viewing is also a popular pastime, especially in the fall.
• **Couples & Groups:** The Peter Kiewit Lodge offers comfortable rooms, and the park has facilities for group meetings and events. The diverse activities mean there's something for every member of a group to enjoy, whether it's a quiet stroll or a competitive game of disc golf.
• **Year-Round Travelers:** Unlike many seasonal parks, Eugene T. Mahoney State Park offers activities throughout the year, including winter sports like ice skating and cross-country skiing.

Getting There & Parking

For those wondering how to get to Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, its strategic location on Interstate 80 makes it remarkably accessible. The park is situated between Omaha and Lincoln, just off I-80 at Exit 426. If you're coming from Omaha, it's about a 30-minute drive, while from Lincoln, it's roughly 45-55 minutes. Upon exiting I-80, you'll turn North and proceed about half a mile on Highway 66; the park entrance will be before the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum.

For air travelers, Omaha's Eppley Airfield (OMA) is approximately 29 miles away, and Lincoln Airport (LNK) is about 26 miles from the park. While rideshare services are available in these larger cities, we highly recommend having a private vehicle for exploring the park and its surroundings, as services are less reliable within the park itself.

Regarding parking, Eugene T. Mahoney State Park offers ample parking lots throughout the park, including designated spaces for cabin and lodge guests. Overflow parking areas are available near cabin loops for visitors. We advise against parking along curbs within the cabin loops to ensure smooth traffic flow. A valid Nebraska State Park Permit is required for all vehicles entering the park. As of 2026, daily permits cost $7 for in-state vehicles and $14 for out-of-state vehicles, with annual permits available for $35 and $70, respectively. Permits can be purchased upon arrival at the gate, the Administration Building, or the Peter Kiewit Lodge front desk.

Top Things to Do

The array of things to do at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park is truly impressive, catering to every energy level and interest. Our team consistently finds new ways to enjoy this multifaceted destination:

• Aquatic Center: A highlight for many, the Family Aquatic Center features a wave pool, thrilling water slides, a diving area, and a zero-entry pool, perfect for cooling off on a hot Nebraska day. Daily admission is $15 for ages 6 and up, and $10 for ages 5 and under.
• Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park: For the adventurous, the Go Ape course offers a treetop adventure with 40-foot crossings, challenging obstacles, and a 440-foot zipline. There's also a Treetop Journey for a shorter, introductory experience.
• Observation Tower: Ascend the 70-foot observation tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the Platte River Valley and the surrounding parkland. It's an excellent spot for photography and soaking in the scenery.
• Horseback Riding & Pony Rides: Explore the park's scenic trails on horseback. Trail rides are available for ages 6 and up at $30 per person, while younger children (ages 3-9) can enjoy pony rides for $8. Reservations are made in person and rides are weather-permitting.
• Miniature Golf & Driving Range: Enjoy a round of mini-golf or practice your swing at the John R. Lauritzen Driving Range. These activities are typically available from Memorial Day through Labor Day, with a fee of $5 per person for mini-golf and $5 per bucket of balls for the driving range.
• Paddle Boating & Fishing: Rent paddle boats by the hour at Owen Marina on Baright Lake. Fishing is also popular in Baright Lake (catch-and-release) and CenturyLink Fishing Lake (not catch-and-release). A one-day fishing permit is required.
• Activity Center & Indoor Playground: The year-round Activity Center boasts a massive indoor playground for kids of all ages and a 42-foot indoor climbing wall. It’s a perfect option for rainy days or when you need a break from the sun.
• Kountze Memorial Theater: Catch a live melodrama performance during the summer or other plays in the winter at the park's indoor theater.
• Winter Sports: When the snow falls, the park transforms into a winter playground, offering ice skating (mid-November through mid-March), sledding, toboggan runs, and ice fishing.
• Disc Golf & Sports Courts: Eugene T. Mahoney State Park also features a disc golf course, tennis courts, basketball courts, and softball diamonds for various recreational pursuits.

Our expert verdict? The sheer volume of things to do at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park means you'll never be bored, whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure. We particularly recommend planning ahead for popular activities like horseback riding and Go Ape, as they can book up quickly, especially during peak season.

Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Hiking Trails

For those who love to explore on foot, Eugene T. Mahoney State Park offers a network of trails that showcase the natural beauty of the Platte River Valley. The Eugene T. Mahoney State Park hiking trails are characterized by a mix of riverside paths, forested sections, and open grasslands, providing varied scenery for hikers of all skill levels.

One of the most popular options is the **Mahoney Short Loop**, an easy 2.7-mile (4.4 km) trail that offers fantastic scenic views of the Platte River Valley from the bluffs. It involves a gentle elevation gain and typically takes about an hour and eight minutes to complete, making it ideal for families or those looking for a leisurely stroll. This loop provides an excellent introduction to the park's natural side, winding through wooded areas and open spaces.

Another recommended route is the **Peter Kiewit Lodge to Observation Tower Loop Trail**, a 2.7-mile path that leads to the observation tower, offering panoramic views. The trails are well-rated by the hiking community, with many paths being easily accessible and suitable for various fitness levels. Some sections are paved, enhancing accessibility.

Beyond the main park, nearby **Schramm Park Nature Loop** is another local gem, an easy 2.4-mile (3.9 km) path that winds through woodlands, featuring diverse trees, rock outcroppings, and a suspension bridge. This trail also offers scenic views of the Platte River from high bluffs.

When enjoying the Eugene T. Mahoney State Park hiking trails, remember to wear appropriate footwear and bring water, especially during warmer months. Pets are welcome on the trails but must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet. We encourage you to pick up a park map at the Administration Building or Peter Kiewit Lodge to plan your route and discover all the scenic overlooks and natural points of interest.

Best Time to Visit

Eugene T. Mahoney State Park is a year-round destination, but the "best" time to visit largely depends on your preferred activities and tolerance for crowds.

• Summer (June-August): This is peak season, with all amenities and activities fully operational, including the aquatic center, Go Ape, horseback riding, and paddle boats. Expect warm and humid weather, occasional showers, and larger crowds, especially on weekends. Reservations for lodging and popular activities are essential months in advance.
• Fall (September-October): Our team considers fall the "sweet spot" for a visit. Daytime temperatures are pleasant (mid-50s to mid-70s°F), mornings are crisp, and the turning leaves along the Platte River offer stunning scenery. Crowds are generally lower on weekdays, trails are enjoyable, and wildlife viewing picks up. Some activities may have reduced hours after Labor Day, so check the park's schedule.
• Spring (March-May): Spring brings milder, though often wet, weather. Trails reopen, and wildlife viewing is good as programs begin to resume. It's a less crowded alternative to summer, but some facilities might still be on reduced hours early in the season.
• Winter (November-February): While cold with light snow, winter offers unique activities like ice skating, sledding, toboggan runs, and ice fishing. Many outdoor facilities have curtailed programs, but the lodge and cabins provide cozy retreats, often with fireplaces. The indoor activity center remains a great option.

For those seeking to avoid crowds, weekdays outside of summer are generally quieter. Regardless of the season, checking the official Nebraska Game and Parks Commission website for specific hours, activity availability, and any potential closures before your visit is always a good idea.

Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Lodging

When it comes to Eugene T. Mahoney State Park lodging, visitors have excellent options directly within the park, catering to different preferences and budgets. The park is renowned for its diverse accommodations, allowing for a truly immersive experience.

• Peter Kiewit Lodge: This is the dominant feature of the park and offers 40 guest rooms, each with a private bath. Many rooms include sleeping lofts and electric fireplaces, and some feature walkout decks overlooking the park or the Platte River. The lodge also houses a restaurant with scenic views, a gift shop, and meeting rooms. The front desk operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
• Modern Housekeeping Cabins: The park boasts 57 modern housekeeping cabins, ranging from two to six bedrooms. These secluded cabins are available year-round and come equipped with basic cookware, linens, air conditioning/heat, fireplaces, TVs, refrigerators, ranges, microwaves, and outdoor decks with grills. Cabins are a highly popular choice and often book up months in advance, especially for peak season weekends. A two-night minimum stay is typically required during peak season, and a $15 one-time pet fee applies per unit for pets staying in cabins (pets are not allowed inside the lodge).
• Campsites: For a more traditional outdoor experience, Eugene T. Mahoney State Park offers 148 campsites across two modern campgrounds: Lakeside and Little Creek. These range from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV spots. Full hookup sites are around $35 per night, and electric-only sites start at $25 per night, with a $5 deduction during the non-peak season. About half of the campsites are reservable up to 180 days in advance, while others are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Both campgrounds offer modern shower/latrine buildings, coin-operated laundry, and drinking water. Pets are allowed in campgrounds but must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet.

Reservations for all lodging options are highly recommended, especially during peak season and holidays. Lodge rooms and cabins generally have a check-in time of 4 p.m. and a check-out time of 11 a.m., while camping check-in is 4 p.m. and check-out is 2 p.m. A Nebraska State Park Permit is required for all vehicles entering the park, in addition to lodging fees.

Where to Stay Nearby

While Eugene T. Mahoney State Park lodging options are excellent, if the park's accommodations are fully booked or you prefer to stay outside the park, several nearby cities offer a variety of hotels and amenities. We often recommend these for their convenience and additional offerings:

• Ashland, NE: As the nearest town to Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, Ashland offers a few local options, including some budget-friendly choices. It's a quaint town where you can find ice cream and pizza. Staying here puts you just minutes from the park entrance.
• Omaha, NE: Located about 25-30 miles northeast of the park, Omaha is a vibrant city with a wide range of hotels, from budget-friendly to luxury. It's an excellent base if you plan to combine your park visit with exploring Omaha's attractions, such as Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo. Popular hotel options in Omaha include Hampton Inn Omaha West-Lakeside (17 miles away) and Extended Stay America Select Suites - Omaha - Southwest (17 miles away).
• Lincoln, NE: Approximately 25 miles southwest of the park, Lincoln also offers numerous accommodation choices. Like Omaha, it provides a broader selection of dining and entertainment options. Graduate Lincoln, a 4-star hotel, is about 24.8 miles from the park.
• Gretna, NE / La Vista, NE / Chalco, NE: These communities, situated between Omaha and the park, offer a good balance of proximity and hotel selection. You'll find various chain hotels here, such as Quality Inn & Suites Omaha Chalco (13.9 miles away) and Courtyard by Marriott Omaha La Vista. Many of these hotels offer amenities like indoor pools and free Wi-Fi.

When booking, consider the distance to the park and any specific amenities you might need. We always advise checking recent reviews, especially for pet-friendly policies if you're traveling with furry companions.

Sample 2-Day Itinerary

To help you make the most of your visit to Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, our team has crafted a sample 2-day itinerary, balancing adventure with relaxation:

Day 1: Adventure & Exploration

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Go Ape & Observation Tower
  • Arrive early to beat the crowds. Head straight to the Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park for a thrilling treetop experience. We recommend booking your session in advance online.
  • After your aerial adventure, make your way to the Observation Tower to enjoy panoramic views of the Platte River Valley and orient yourself with the park's layout.
• Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Picnic by the Lake
  • Grab a packed lunch or pick up something from one of the park's concession stands (Owen Marina or Activity Center) and enjoy a picnic by Baright Lake or Qwest Lake.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Aquatic Center & Mini-Golf
  • Cool off and have some fun at the Family Aquatic Center. Enjoy the wave pool, water slides, and diving area.
  • Follow up with a round of miniature golf at the Esther Marie Daniel Mini-Golf Course.
• Evening (5:00 PM onwards): Lodge Dinner & Melodrama
  • Check into your cabin or lodge room.
  • Dine at the Peter Kiewit Lodge restaurant, offering scenic views of the Platte River.
  • Catch a live melodrama performance at the Kountze Memorial Theater, if available.
  • Enjoy a campfire (if permitted) or relax on your cabin's deck.

Day 2: Nature & Relaxation

• Morning (8:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Hiking & Horseback Riding
  • Start your day with a hike on one of the Eugene T. Mahoney State Park hiking trails. We suggest the Mahoney Short Loop for its accessible paths and scenic river views.
  • After your hike, head to the John Wayne Riding Stable for a horseback trail ride (ages 6+) or let younger kids enjoy a pony ride. Remember to register in person.
• Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Local Flavors in Ashland
  • Venture into the nearby town of Ashland for lunch to experience local eateries.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum
  • Just a stone's throw from the park entrance, visit the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum. It's an impressive facility with aircraft collections and engaging exhibits, a great educational complement to your outdoor adventure.
• Late Afternoon (4:00 PM onwards): Paddle Boating & Departure
  • Return to the park for a relaxing paddle boat ride on Owen Marina Lake.
  • Enjoy some last-minute souvenir shopping at the lodge's gift shop before heading home.

This itinerary is flexible; feel free to adjust it based on your interests and the seasonal availability of activities. Always check the park's official schedule for the most up-to-date hours and reservation requirements. For more Nebraska adventures, consider exploring other top destinations in Nebraska, such as Chimney Rock National Historic Site.

Frequently Asked Questions

Eugene T. Mahoney State Park camping

Eugene T. Mahoney State Park offers 148 campsites across two modern campgrounds, Lakeside and Little Creek, featuring options from primitive tent sites to full-hookup RV spots. Fees range from $7 to $70 per night, depending on the site type, with full hookup sites at approximately $35 per night and electric-only sites starting at $25 per night. About half of the sites are reservable up to 180 days in advance, while others are first-come, first-served. Modern shower houses, restrooms, and coin-operated laundry facilities are available. Pets are permitted in campgrounds but must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet.

things to do in Ashland

While Eugene T. Mahoney State Park is the main draw, Ashland, Nebraska, offers a few charming local experiences. You can find ice cream parlors and pizza restaurants for casual dining. For adult visitors, Glacial Till Winery Tasting Room and Cellar 426 Wines & Vines are popular options. Additionally, the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum is located just outside the park near Ashland.

Eugene T. Mahoney State Park with kids

Eugene T. Mahoney State Park is exceptionally kid-friendly, offering a plethora of activities. Children will love the Family Aquatic Center with its wave pool and water slides, the massive indoor playground in the Activity Center, and the Go Ape ropes course (with options for different age/skill levels). Other popular activities include mini-golf, pony rides, fishing, and exploring the easy hiking trails. During winter, ice skating and sledding are big hits.

best hotels near Eugene T. Mahoney State Park

For the best hotels near Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, our team recommends looking in nearby cities like Omaha, Lincoln, or communities such as Gretna, La Vista, and Chalco. Options include Hampton Inn Omaha West-Lakeside (17 miles away), Extended Stay America Select Suites - Omaha - Southwest (17 miles away), and Quality Inn & Suites Omaha Chalco (13.9 miles away). These offer a range of amenities and are convenient for combining a park visit with city exploration. Within the park, the Peter Kiewit Lodge and modern cabins are excellent choices, though they book up quickly.

Eugene T. Mahoney State Park tips

Our top tips for visiting Eugene T. Mahoney State Park include: 1) **Book early:** Cabins and popular activities like Go Ape and horseback riding can be reserved months in advance, especially for peak season. 2) **Get a park permit:** A valid Nebraska State Park Permit is required for all vehicles; daily or annual options are available. 3) **Check seasonal hours:** Many activities, particularly the aquatic center and trail rides, operate on seasonal schedules with reduced hours outside of summer. 4) **Bring bug spray and sunscreen:** Essential for enjoying outdoor activities. 5) **Consider off-peak visits:** Fall offers beautiful scenery and fewer crowds.

where to stay near Eugene T. Mahoney State Park

Beyond the park's own Peter Kiewit Lodge and cabins, you can find accommodations in Ashland, Omaha (about 25-30 miles away), or Lincoln (about 25 miles away). Smaller towns like Gretna, La Vista, and Chalco, located between the major cities and the park, also offer various hotel chains. These locations provide convenient access to the park while offering a wider selection of dining and shopping options.

Last updated: 2026-07-05 by the Roam States team.

Our Eugene T. Mahoney State Park guide covers practical planning for Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Nebraska — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground.

Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Travel Guide — Nebraska

Welcome to Eugene T. Mahoney State Park Nebraska, a premier destination that transcends the typical state park experience. Nestled conveniently between Omaha and Lincoln, this 700-acre outdoor adventure resort along the Platte River Valley offers an unparalleled array of activities and accommodations, making it a year-round haven for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. From thrilling aquatic adventures and a challenging ropes course to serene hiking trails and comfortable lodging, our team considers it one of Nebraska's most dynamic and family-friendly parks.

Why Visit Eugene T. Mahoney State Park

Eugene T. Mahoney State Park isn't just a park; it's a comprehensive recreational hub designed for diverse interests and all ages. What truly sets it apart is the sheer variety of experiences packed into one location. We're talking about everything from an exciting aquatic center with water slides and a wave pool to an observation tower offering panoramic views of the Platte River. It’s a place where you can spend your mornings exploring nature and your afternoons tackling adventure courses, all within the park's boundaries. The park's commitment to year-round operation means that whether you're seeking summer thrills or winter wonderland activities like ice skating and sledding, Eugene T. Mahoney State Park delivers.

Beyond the activities, the park's location is a significant draw. Situated just a short drive from both Omaha and Lincoln, it offers an accessible escape from city life without sacrificing modern conveniences. This accessibility, combined with a wide range of lodging options from modern cabins to lodge rooms, makes planning a visit straightforward and enjoyable.

Who It's Best For

Eugene T. Mahoney State Park is truly designed for everyone, but certain groups will find it particularly appealing:

• Families with Children: With its aquatic center, indoor activity center, mini-golf, Go Ape ropes course, and pony rides, the park is a dream for families. There are activities to keep kids of all ages engaged, from toddlers to teenagers.
• Adventure Seekers: The Go Ape Treetop Adventure Course, with its ziplines and high-ropes crossings, provides an adrenaline rush. Climbing enthusiasts can also tackle the 42-foot indoor climbing wall.
• Nature Lovers & Hikers: Despite its modern amenities, the park boasts beautiful hiking trails through woodlands and grasslands, offering scenic views of the Platte River Valley. Wildlife viewing is also a popular pastime, especially in the fall.
• Couples & Groups: The Peter Kiewit Lodge offers comfortable rooms, and the park has facilities for group meetings and events. The diverse activities mean there's something for every member of a group to enjoy, whether it's a quiet stroll or a competitive game of disc golf.
• Year-Round Travelers: Unlike many seasonal parks, Eugene T. Mahoney State Park offers activities throughout the year, including winter sports like ice skating and cross-country skiing.

Getting There & Parking

For those wondering how to get to Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, its strategic location on Interstate 80 makes it remarkably accessible. The park is situated between Omaha and Lincoln, just off I-80 at Exit 426. If you're coming from Omaha, it's about a 30-minute drive, while from Lincoln, it's roughly 45-55 minutes. Upon exiting I-80, you'll turn North and proceed about half a mile on Highway 66; the park entrance will be before the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum.

For air travelers, Omaha's Eppley Airfield (OMA) is approximately 29 miles away, and Lincoln Airport (LNK) is about 26 miles from the park. While rideshare services are available in these larger cities, we highly recommend having a private vehicle for exploring the park and its surroundings, as services are less reliable within the park itself.

Regarding parking, Eugene T. Mahoney State Park offers ample parking lots throughout the park, including designated spaces for cabin and lodge guests. Overflow parking areas are available near cabin loops for visitors. We advise against parking along curbs within the cabin loops to ensure smooth traffic flow. A valid Nebraska State Park Permit is required for all vehicles entering the park. As of 2026, daily permits cost $7 for in-state vehicles and $14 for out-of-state vehicles, with annual permits available for $35 and $70, respectively. Permits can be purchased upon arrival at the gate, the Administration Building, or the Peter Kiewit Lodge front desk.

Top Things to Do

The array of things to do at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park is truly impressive, catering to every energy level and interest. Our team consistently finds new ways to enjoy this multifaceted destination:

• Aquatic Center: A highlight for many, the Family Aquatic Center features a wave pool, thrilling water slides, a diving area, and a zero-entry pool, perfect for cooling off on a hot Nebraska day. Daily admission is $15 for ages 6 and up, and $10 for ages 5 and under.
• Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park: For the adventurous, the Go Ape course offers a treetop adventure with 40-foot crossings, challenging obstacles, and a 440-foot zipline. There's also a Treetop Journey for a shorter, introductory experience.
• Observation Tower: Ascend the 70-foot observation tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the Platte River Valley and the surrounding parkland. It's an excellent spot for photography and soaking in the scenery.
• Horseback Riding & Pony Rides: Explore the park's scenic trails on horseback. Trail rides are available for ages 6 and up at $30 per person, while younger children (ages 3-9) can enjoy pony rides for $8