Scotts Bluff National Monument, located at 190276 Highway 92, Gering, NE 69341, is a historic landmark and natural wonder in western Nebraska. This iconic monument commemorates the Oregon Trail and the pioneers who traversed it, as well as the significant geological formation that guided them. For more information on this beautiful park, click here.

The monument’s centerpiece is the towering Scotts Bluff, a 3,000-foot-tall rock formation that rises abruptly from the surrounding prairie. This natural wonder was a crucial landmark for pioneers, fur traders, and Native American tribes, who relied on its visibility from a distance to navigate the treacherous terrain. Today, visitors can hike to the top of Scotts Bluff via the Saddle Rock Trail, a 1.6-mile round-trip journey that offers breathtaking views of the North Platte River Valley.

In addition to Scotts Bluff, the monument encompasses several other points of interest, including the Oregon Trail Museum, which showcases the history of the trail and its travelers. The museum features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and a collection of historic photographs. Visitors can also explore the nearby Remnant Trail, a short hike that takes them through a preserved section of the original Oregon Trail.

Amenities at Scotts Bluff National Monument include a visitor center, picnic areas, restrooms, and a gift shop. The park offers ranger-led programs and guided tours during the summer months, as well as special events and reenactments throughout the year. Visitors can also take advantage of the park’s scenic driving route, which offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Scotts Bluff National Monument is open year-round, except for Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Hours of operation vary by season, with the park opening at 8 am and closing at 6 pm from May to October, and 8 am to 4:30 pm from November to April. Admission is free, although some activities and programs may require a fee.

In conclusion, Scotts Bluff National Monument is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in American history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure. With its rich history, stunning scenery, and diverse amenities, this park offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique experience, Scotts Bluff National Monument is a treasure worth exploring.

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Illinois winters get very cold, especially in the Northern half of the state. Luckily there are a few indoor waterpark options to keep your family busy until during the cold Midwest winters.

Great Wolf Lodge

Great Wolf Lodge is a perfect place for a weather proof family vacation! Family fun awaits when you visit this water park just outside of Chicago! The Great Wolf Lodge has a wide variety of attractions for families of all ages! Great Wolf Lodge is located at 1700 Nations Dr, in Gurnee, Illinois. For more information or to make a reservation, click here.

Grand Bear Resort in Utica

Discover a magical family getaway just beyond the glow of Chicago at Starved Rock’s own Grand Bear Resort. Nestled in this gorgeous natural area of Illinois, Grand Bear Resort offers an oasis of relaxation and adventure – a destination where water-park fun meets nature! A truly unforgettable place to unwind, play, meet, dine and explore with family and friends. Grand Bear Resort is an oasis of relaxation and adventure where water park fun meets natural wonder! Featuring 24,000 sq.ft. indoor water-park, mini-golf, arcade, 4 cafe/restaurant/bars, banquet hall & party suites just steps from Starved Rock State Park. Grand Bear Resort is located at 2643 IL-178, North in Utica, Illinois. For more information, click here.

Pirate’s Cay Indoor Water Park in Sheridan

A Quiet Escape Surrounded by Rolling Hills. After fast-paced, big-city sightseeing in Chicago, families might want a vacation after their vacation. Savvy Midwesterners know there’s a serene, all-in-one retreat just 90 minutes away. In the rolling hills along the Fox River, near beautiful Starved Rock State Park, outdoor entertainment and indoor surprises await, including: Horseback Riding, Indoor Water-park, onsite watersport rentals, and golf course. Fox River Resort is located at 2558 N 3650rd Rd, in Sheridan, Illinois. For more information, click here.

, Pelican Harbor Indoor/Outdoor Aquatic Park in Bolingbrook

The Waterworks in Schaumburg

This splashtastic indoor water park offers fun and excitement for the entire family! Highlights of the waterpark include 3 water slides, a rapid water channel, a sprayground and a diving pool. Waterworks is located at 5‍05 N. Springinsguth Road, in Schaumburg Illinois. For more information, click here.

Located at Fifty-Six, AR 72533, Gunner Pool Recreation Area is a stunning outdoor destination nestled within the Ozark-St. Francis National Forests. This recreation area offers a serene campground, exciting outdoor activities, and breathtaking scenery, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. For more information, click here.

History and Amenities: Gunner Pool Recreation Area has a rich history dating back to the Civilian Conservation Corps era, when the beautiful stone dam was built. The area offers 27 campsites along the scenic North Sylamore Creek, each equipped with grills, tables, lantern poles, and tent pads. While there are no electrical or water hook-ups, the sites provide a peaceful and private camping experience. The area also features picnic tables, parking pads, and fire rings, making it ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Activities and Points of Interest: Visitors to Gunner Pool Recreation Area can enjoy a wide range of activities, including: – Hiking: Access the Sylamore Hiking Trail via a trailhead within the campground and explore the beautiful scenery. – Swimming: Swim in the crystal-clear waters of Gunner Pool, a dammed-up section of the creek. – Fishing: Try your luck in the White and Buffalo Rivers, renowned for their excellent trout fishing. – Wildlife Viewing: Spot deer, squirrels, bears, and turkeys in their natural habitat. – Scenic Drives: Take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. – Blanchard Springs Caverns: Explore the stunning caverns located just minutes away.

Hours and Pricing: Gunner Pool Recreation Area is open year-round, unless weather conditions make the access roads unsafe. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, with no reservations available. The current pricing is $10 per site per day for camping, and $3 per day for day-use.

Conclusion: Gunner Pool Recreation Area is a hidden gem in Arkansas, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and serenity. Whether you’re a camper, hiker, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, this recreation area is a must-visit destination. So pack your bags, grab your hiking boots, and experience the magic of Gunner Pool Recreation Area for yourself.

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Smith Falls State Park, located at 90159 Smith Falls Rd, Valentine, NE 69201, is a stunning natural oasis in the heart of Nebraska. This picturesque park is home to the state’s highest waterfall, scenic hiking trails, and a plethora of outdoor activities that make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. For more information, click here.

History Smith Falls State Park has a rich history dating back to the early 1900s, when it was first established as a state park. The park’s namesake, Smith Falls, was discovered by a fur trapper named Frederick Smith in the late 1800s. Over the years, the park has undergone significant developments, including the construction of hiking trails, camping facilities, and picnic areas.

Amenities and Activities Smith Falls State Park offers a wide range of amenities and activities for visitors to enjoy. The park’s crown jewel is the 63-foot Smith Falls, which is surrounded by lush vegetation and scenic hiking trails. Visitors can hike, bike, or horseback ride through the park’s trails, which offer breathtaking views of the falls and the surrounding landscape. The park also features picnic areas, camping facilities, and a fishing lake stocked with trout and other fish species.

Points of Interest In addition to Smith Falls, the park is home to several other points of interest, including the Smith Falls Visitor Center, which offers information on the park’s history and geology. The park also features a historic gristmill, which has been converted into a museum showcasing the park’s history and the region’s natural resources.

Wildlife and Nature Smith Falls State Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with a diverse range of flora and fauna. The park is home to over 100 species of birds, including the majestic bald eagle, as well as deer, turkeys, and other wildlife. The park’s scenic trails offer ample opportunities for nature watching and photography.

Camping and Accommodations Smith Falls State Park offers a range of camping facilities, including RV sites, tent sites, and cabins. The park also features a group lodge and a picnic shelter, which can be reserved for events and gatherings.

In conclusion, Smith Falls State Park is a natural gem in the heart of Nebraska, offering a range of outdoor activities, scenic beauty, and historic significance. Whether you’re a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Smith Falls State Park is a must-visit destination in the Cornhusker State.

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