Nebraska Game and Parks Outdoor Calendar
Game and Parks Events
Mondays in January, you are invited to join in an evening of archery FOR women, taught by women. Choose from a four-week intro class or 'next-level' advice section, depending on your comfort with the material. The intro section features a lesson and time on the archery range practicing with a bow each week. Class goes from 5:30 […]
This basic USA Archery class is open to students who are new to JOAD and are looking for archery instruction before the next quarter of level 1 classes is available to new students. Explore Archery is a recommended prerequisite but not required. This class section is always open to new students and is prorated depending […]
Mondays in January, you are invited to join in an evening of firearm education FOR women, taught by women. Choose from a four-week intro pistol class or a 'next-level' weekly practice and skill-building section, depending on your comfort with the material. The intro class features a lesson and time on the firearm range practicing with a pistol […]
Inquiry-based learning prioritizes a learner's questions and ideas by engaging their innate sense of curiosity and awe. As educators we get to be facilitators of learning, here to guide and support the process of investigation. You don't need to know every bird or flower or tree to engage your learners in nature education. Each workshop […]
Do you have a little one who loves animals, nature, and the outdoors? Are you looking for opportunities to explore the outdoors together with your children? Join us for Little Saplings, Schramm Education Center’s early childhood nature discovery program. The program is designed for children ages 2 - 5 and their adult caregiver and will […]
Dragonflies and damselflies belong to the order Odonata, which means “toothed ones”. This order includes some of the most ancient and beautiful insects that have ever roamed the earth, as well as some of the largest flying invertebrates ever to have lived. These are also some of the most popular insects due to them being […]
Take your first shots with us! The biggest challenge for new shooters is getting started. First Shots makes getting started in shooting very easy - and, thanks to NSSF partnership*, it's only $10! At a First Shots seminar, you'll receive: -An educational introduction to the safe and recreational use of firearms -Individual and group training […]
Love it or hate it, there is more to snow than meets the eye! Join educators for the "Science of Snow". We will discover how snow is made, explore the beautiful patterns of snowflakes, and create some snow-art (“snart”?). If there’s no snow, not to worry – we will make our own and show you […]
Learn how you can join the Nebraska Game and Parks team during a career fair Feb. 4 at Mahoney State Park near Ashland. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., agency representatives will be at the Peter Kiewit Lodge to talk about full- and part-time job openings at locations across the state.
Bring your birding buddies and join us at E.T. Mahoney State Park for Birds & Binoculars on Saturday, Feb. 4! Located at Lauritzen’s Administration Office, activities will include bird viewing and identification in preparation for the Audubon Society’s “The Great Backyard Bird Count”, along with other birding activities.
Explore interactions between animals that hunt and animals that are hunted. Some animals form groups that help members survive and engage in pack tactics. Learn about these animals and enjoy some games that model tactics in the wild. This is a free program that will meet in the Schramm Education Center classroom. If you choose […]
A fully equipped, turn-key operation and additional incentives are some of the benefits offered to a new restaurant partner at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. The agency is seeking proposals for a food service provider at the park conveniently located just off Interstate 80 between Lincoln and Omaha. […]
This basic USA Archery class is open to students who are new to JOAD and are looking for archery instruction before the next quarter of level 1 classes is available to new students. Explore Archery is a recommended prerequisite but not required. This class section is always open to new students and is prorated depending […]
Registration for the Outdoor Education Center's GSSF Indoor League Series - Match 3 on February 7 -or- 11, 2023. For this series, each match will be offered on two dates - attend on whichever day works best for your schedule (Tuesday or Saturday). This is the FINAL match for this series. Competitors must shoot in two out of the three available […]
Inquiry-based learning prioritizes a learner's questions and ideas by engaging their innate sense of curiosity and awe. As educators we get to be facilitators of learning, here to guide and support the process of investigation. You don't need to know every bird or flower or tree to engage your learners in nature education. Each workshop […]
You may never have heard the word ungulate, but odds are you have seen many of them, even here in Nebraska. To boil it down ungulates are large mammals with hooves. They then use the hoofed tips to support their body weight while standing or moving. There could be odd-toed and even-toed ungulates. But, what’s […]
Take your first shots with us! The biggest challenge for new shooters is getting started. First Shots makes getting started in shooting very easy - and, thanks to NSSF partnership*, it's only $10! At a First Shots seminar, you'll receive: -An educational introduction to the safe and recreational use of firearms -Individual and group training […]
Celebrate Valentine's Day with a cozy getaway to E.T. Mahoney State Park! Reserve a select cabin or lodge room February 10-14, 2023 (Friday – Tuesday) and add on a special $55 Valentine’s Package to your reservation. Valentine’s Package includes • Embroidered blanket • Choice of sparkling juice or wine • 2 wine glasses • Baker’s […]
Reserve a beautiful lake view cabin at Lewis and Clark SRA on February 10-12 or February 17-19 and unlock a 30% discount ($224 plus tax for 2 nights; minimum 2 night stay required). Optional: A Sweetheart Package can be added on for $35. This includes early check in and late check out, pet fee waived, […]
Looking for a cozy Valentine’s Day weekend away from home? Visit Ponca State Park and enjoy a Birds and Breakfast package that includes birding activities, the Great Backyard Bird County, 30% lodging discount, a bottle of wine or cider, a bundle of firewood and a Saturday Breakfast. During the month of February, the National Audubon […]
Visit beautiful Niobrara State Park for a cozy Valentine's weekend getaway on the weekends of Feb. 10-12th or Feb. 17-19 and unlock a 30% discount for a minimum 2 night stay! Check out our $35 add-on Sweetheart Package, complete with early check in and late check out, waived pet fee, wine glasses, and gift baskets […]
Registration for the Outdoor Education Center's GSSF Indoor League Series - Match 3 on February 7 -or- 11, 2023. For this series, each match will be offered on two dates - attend on whichever day works best for your schedule (Tuesday or Saturday). This is the FINAL match for this series. Competitors must shoot in two out of the three available […]
Because a prairie winter won’t stop us, it just adds to the adventure.
Want to see what archery is all about? Never held a bow before? Not sure where to begin? Try Archery is your place to start! This easy-going program covers basic range rules and procedures, along with starter techniques. Participants get to fling arrows on their very first visit! And whether archery turns out to be […]
Visit scenic Platte River State Park for a romantic Valentine's Saturday Steak Night or Sunday Brunch (or both!) on Feb. 11 and 12 at the Walter Scott Jr. Lodge & Restaurant! Saturday's dinner will include choices of steak, chicken, fish, appetizers, a salad bar and more! Sunday will feature hand-carved buffalo tenderloin and ham, homemade […]
A fully equipped, turn-key operation and additional incentives are some of the benefits offered to a new restaurant partner at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. The agency is seeking proposals for a food service provider at the park conveniently located just off Interstate 80 between Lincoln and Omaha. […]
Women's Firearm Club Night is a once-a-month directed practice opportunity for women - instructed by women. Club will regularly be held the second Monday of each month, 7-8 p.m. This regular refresher is a great way to keep skills sharp, pick up tips and tricks, and network with others in the shooting sports community. Primary […]
This basic USA Archery class is open to students who are new to JOAD and are looking for archery instruction before the next quarter of level 1 classes is available to new students. Explore Archery is a recommended prerequisite but not required. This class section is always open to new students and is prorated depending […]
Wiggle to the left, wiggle to the right! Let’s uncover cool things about our slow, slug friends! Each Wildcat Tales program will include a lesson plan, story, and hands-on activity specifically targeted for early learners ages 2-6 years. The preschool programs will meet at the Nature Center at 10am. Each month is a different program […]
Homeschool Hikes is a monthly nature exploration program hosted by the Schramm Education Center geared towards homeschool families. Each month, families can join a naturalist for a guided hike on the Schramm Park State Recreation Area hiking trails. During the program, participants will ask questions, draw, observe, and make discoveries in nature. Participants will have […]
From mountain lions using Tinder to mating balls in snakes, snail love darts to "it's just tickling" in turtles, this program will have it all when it comes to love and mating rituals in the animal kingdom. We all know human dating can be awkward, strange, uncomfortable and downright humiliating at times, but let's take […]
How do biologist and artists work together and learn about North American waterfowl? During this program, learn a bit more about the EnvironArt program and even learn to draw waterfowl like a professional artist! This monthly homeschool program will meet at the Wildcat Hills Nature Center south of Gering NE. These programs will be conducted […]
Homeschool Hikes is a monthly nature exploration program hosted by the Schramm Education Center geared towards homeschool families. Each month, families can join a naturalist for a guided hike on the Schramm Park State Recreation Area hiking trails. During the program, participants will ask questions, draw, observe, and make discoveries in nature. Participants will have […]
Second Shots Pistol is designed to build on the handgun skills introduced in our FIRST SHOTS course. It's also a good refresher for those who are years out of practice. Students learn more about ammunition, loading a magazine, clearing a pistol and locking the slide back, and handling malfunctions. Plus, students get the practical experience […]
Reserve a beautiful lake view cabin at Lewis and Clark SRA on February 10-12 or February 17-19 and unlock a 30% discount ($224 plus tax for 2 nights; minimum 2 night stay required). Optional: A Sweetheart Package can be added on for $35. This includes early check in and late check out, pet fee waived, […]
Looking for a cozy Valentine’s Day weekend away from home? Visit Ponca State Park and enjoy a Birds and Breakfast package that includes birding activities, the Great Backyard Bird County, 30% lodging discount, a bottle of wine or cider, a bundle of firewood and a Saturday Breakfast. During the month of February, the National Audubon […]
Visit beautiful Niobrara State Park for a cozy Valentine's weekend getaway on the weekends of Feb. 10-12th or Feb. 17-19 and unlock a 30% discount for a minimum 2 night stay at one of Niobrara's five cabins! Check out our $35 add-on Sweetheart Package, complete with early check in and late check out, waived pet […]
Registration for the Outdoor Education Center's .22 & Air Pistol Matches on February 13 -or- 18, 2023. This match will be offered on two dates - attend on whichever day works best for your schedule (Monday or Saturday). This is a stand-alone match open to pistols from all manufacturers. See information below about courses of fire. All matches […]
Join the Cornhusker Fly Fishing club in the Schramm Education Center classroom to learn how to tie a fly. Observe them in action as they demonstrate their craft and skill, then try your hand at making a fly to take home. They will provide equipment and materials and answer questions about fly tying and fly […]
Want to see what archery is all about? Never held a bow before? Not sure where to begin? Try Archery is your place to start! This easy-going program covers basic range rules and procedures, along with starter techniques. Participants get to fling arrows on their very first visit! And whether archery turns out to be […]
This basic USA Archery class is open to students who are new to JOAD and are looking for archery instruction before the next quarter of level 1 classes is available to new students. Explore Archery is a recommended prerequisite but not required. This class section is always open to new students and is prorated depending […]
Conservation Education Lunch & Learn Webinar Series 2023 Creative Communication: Sharing the Value of Nebraska’s Ecosystems through Innovative Educational Resources February 22, 2023 | 12:30pm – 1:30pm (CST) To register for this free virtual webinar, click here: https://outdoornebraska.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJIrc-uuqT8tGdEOAhqivOGJVXf4ravuzV9n Environmental Education seeks to connect our audiences to natural ecosystems. As educators, we hope to motivate our […]
Explore Archery is a fun and perfect fit for beginners of any ability wanting to get started in the sport of archery. If a student is fairly new to archery and looking for a full introductory program, Explore Archery has everything you need - bows, arrows, and enthusiastic instructors! You'll learn range safety, fundamentals of […]
Take your first shots with us! The biggest challenge for new shooters is getting started. First Shots makes getting started in shooting very easy - and, thanks to NSSF partnership*, it's only $10! At a First Shots seminar, you'll receive: -An educational introduction to the safe and recreational use of firearms -Individual and group training […]
Want to see what archery is all about? Never held a bow before? Not sure where to begin? Try Archery is your place to start! This easy-going program covers basic range rules and procedures, along with starter techniques. Participants get to fling arrows on their very first visit! And whether archery turns out to be […]
Enjoy family-friendly Omaha magician Ryan Chandler as he performs at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park on Nov. 26 for the first of several dates. Chandler, who has appeared on television with magicians Penn and Teller, will perform at 3 p.m. at Kountze Memorial Theater. Other performances will be (all begin at 3 p.m. unless otherwise […]
Explore the geological outcrop and park trails as we delve into the everchanging landscape of our park. Ask questions, discover history and learn about the science of ecological succession. This program meets at the Hatch House at Schramm Park State Recreation Area. You will need a State Park Sticker on your vehicle to enter the […]
Looking for a little direction for your range practice? Maybe a bit of challenge? Look no further! All league courses of fire are untimed and each week's score may be shot any time during the range's open hours, Monday through Sunday. While weekly submissions are encouraged, the sole deadline is that all targets must be submitted by […]
Looking for a little direction for your range practice? Maybe a bit of challenge? Look no further! All league courses of fire are untimed and each week's score may be shot any time during the range's open hours, Monday through Sunday. While weekly submissions are encouraged, the sole deadline is that all targets must be submitted by […]
Looking for a little direction for your range practice? Maybe a bit of challenge? Look no further! All league courses of fire are untimed and each week's score may be shot any time during the range's open hours, Monday through Sunday. While weekly submissions are encouraged, the sole deadline is that all targets must be submitted by […]
School archery season is in full swing. Join us for NASP League and you can practice every week... for prizes! Youth aged 8 to 19 can sign up for this league to practice and compete for 10 weeks, from March to May. Prizes include archery gear, arrows, and possibly a bow or two! Don't have […]
Take a break from the grind and try a unique activity! Practice with friends! The possibilities are... well, not endless, but might be fun. Every Tuesday 7-9 pm this semester, College Night at the Outdoor Ed Center gives you the chance to learn, relax, and improve your skills. Never shot a bow before? Not a […]
Do you have a little one who loves animals, nature, and the outdoors? Are you looking for opportunities to explore the outdoors together with your children? Join us for Little Saplings, Schramm Education Center’s early childhood nature discovery program. The program is designed for children ages 2 - 5 and their adult caregiver and will […]
Looking for a good way to introduce your child to the lifelong habits of safe gun handling and the basic concepts of marksmanship? Whether your child is interested in recreation, competition, or hunting, this class is where they need to be! Explore Rifle is a 4-week course designed for youth ages 8-10, but open to […]
Take your first shots with us! The biggest challenge for new shooters is getting started. First Shots makes getting started in shooting very easy - and, thanks to NSSF partnership*, it's only $10! At a First Shots seminar, you'll receive: -An educational introduction to the safe and recreational use of firearms -Individual and group training […]
Add excitement and variety to your range practice by joining one of our indoor archery leagues! Ages 10 and up. Both leagues will follow the round schedule listed below and run for 8 weeks, with scores recorded each week and a cumulative score for the series. Target face and distances will accord to each round's […]
Join us at Ponca State Park for Marsh Madness! Have you ever experienced the whirlwinds of the snow geese? The courtship displays of the pintail? The living blanket of Canadian geese covering the ground? Migration season in the Northeast region on Nebraska is generally at its peak the last week of February and all of […]
Perfect for friends, family, or a date, Cosmic Archery is a twist on your regular range time that features blacklights, music, and glowing targets. No archery experience needed - beginners welcome. Reserve your group under one registration and choose from a unique check-in time. Group reservation is for a one-hour period. Limited capacity available. Participants […]
Bears, bison and monkeys; oh my! Join educators for a special Family Nature Club at Riverside Discovery Center! We will explore the various animals, investigating how they are similar to animals of the Panhandle and making observations using art and journaling. We will be outside the entire time. Please dress comfortably for the weather and […]