The weather is warming up, flowers are emerging and birds have been migrating through Northwest Nebraska. Spring is here, and with it come countless opportunities to enjoy a variety of outdoor recreational activities.
Recreation areas
The Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District manages six recreation areas for all to enjoy.
- Bruce L. Anderson (Recharge Lake), York
- Overland Trail, York
- Oxbow Trail, Ulysses
- Pioneer Trails, Aurora
- Smith Creek, Utica
- Teal View Wetland Education Area, Hampton
These areas are open year-round and offer a place for everyone who wants to view wildlife, fish, kayak, take a nature walk, picnic or participate in other outdoor activities. Each site offers a unique setting for visitors to connect with nature and immerse themselves in the great outdoors.
In addition to day-use activities, campgrounds are a popular seasonal attraction set to reopen Monday, April 6, 2026. Camping is permitted at most District recreation areas as posted, with each location offering a different experience. From tent camping at Smith Creek and Oxbow Trail to RV camping with electrical hookups at Bruce L. Anderson and Pioneer Trails, visitors have options for how they would like to spend a night under the stars. Campgrounds are operated on a first-come, first-served basis and reservations cannot be made in advance.
Recreation areas have varying levels of development, amenities and permitted activities. More information to plan your visit can be found at upperbigblue.org/recreation-areas.
Recreation exploration
Across the state, Nebraska’s Natural Resources Districts collectively own and manage over 80 recreation areas, which showcase the diversity of Nebraska’s habitats and landscapes. The NRD Recreation Exploration program is designed to inspire individuals and families to venture outside and explore the state’s natural beauty, while also promoting physical activity and fostering environmental stewardship. Those who wish to participate in the NRD Recreation Exploration program have the chance to win monthly prizes, with a grand prize drawing for a $1,500 Scheels gift card.
To participate in the NRD Recreation Exploration program, individuals can follow these simple steps.
- Visit any NRD recreation area across the state.
- Capture a photo to show you were there.
- Upload the photo at nrdnet.org/recreation before Sept. 18, 2026.
For more information, including a list of recreation areas and prizes, visit nrdnet.org/recreation.
Beyond recreation
All 23 NRDs provide outdoor recreation facilities but have a much broader responsibility to manage, develop and protect soil, water, forest, rangeland and wildlife resources. Several recreation areas are multifunctional projects designed not only for recreation but, more importantly, for soil erosion and sediment control, flood damage reduction, groundwater recharge, water quality improvement and wildlife habitat enhancement and restoration. Research on water quality and quantity is also conducted on these properties, providing valuable information for management decisions.
Get started
Whether you like to fish, birdwatch, camp, hike or bike, now is the time to enjoy the outdoors! For more information, call 402.362.6601 or visit upperbigblue.org/recreation-areas.
