Prairie Lakes Region, Nebraska
In 1820, Stephen Long, explorer and military man, called this country the Great American Desert. Today, he'd be shocked to discover dozens of man-made lakes and huge reservoirs complementing the grassy plains of the region. Nowhere is the relationship of man and the land more poignantly realized than Nebraska's Prairie Lakes Country. This relationship becomes even more evident in the excellent museums, historic homes and memorable personalities of the area such as Willa Cather and Senator George Norris. It's a country rich in history and personality that you'll enjoy getting to know and returning to year after year.
Explore Prairie Lakes Region
Boot Hill Cemetery
Since cowboys generally were buried with their boots on, the first cemetery in the area was aptly named Boot Hill. It was Ogallala's only official burying ground during the "end of the trail" decade, from 1874 through 1884
Ogallala, NE CemeteriesHarlan County Museum
The Harlan County Museum is home for the Hufnagel "PIETA." Given to St. Mary's Catholic Church by German immigrant, Frank Hufnagel, it arrived by wagon freight about 1878, and was displayed in the original frame church and then the "new" 1898 church until the late 1970
Orleans, NE MuseumsChevyland USA
America's top collection of Chevrolets features more than 110 cars, from priceless classics to nostalgic favorites, all restored or in original condition.
Kearney, NE Auto CollectionsWilla Cather Pioneer Memorial
The Art Gallery and Bookstore, located two doors south of the Cather Historical Center on main street, carries the country's most complete selection of Willa Cather's novels, short stories, biographies, and critical works about her.
Red Cloud, NE MemorialsFort O.K. Cannon
The cannon located on the South lawn of the Courthouse is dated 1853 and with the forged stamp of AMES CO. FOUNDERS, CHICOPEE, MASS.
"This cannon was left at Fort O.K. August 22, 1865 by Major J.R. Curtis 'for the protection of the settlement against attack by Hostile Indians'."
Grand Island, NE Landmarks
Harlan Lake Trails
Harlan County Lake offers two nature trails of varying length and style. The River's Edge nature trail is located along the Republican River within North Outlet Park. This trail winds through the river bottom forest and is well maintained with many trees identified by markers.
, NE HikingSherman County Courthouse
Sherman County was organized in 1873 during a period of pronounced settlement in the state. Loup City was selected as county seat and a courthouse was built the following year. However, it burned down the day it was completed. A brick courthouse was constructed in 1878. In 1919
Loup City, NE Historic CourthousesFurnas County Courthouse
When Furnas County organized in late 1873, Beaver City was one of the voting places designated by Governor Robert Furnas, for whom the county was named. Competing with Arapahoe for location of the county seat, Beaver City was chosen for the honor by the people. This is where it has remained.
Beaver City, NE Historic CourthousesChase County Historical Museum
The Chase County Historical Museum is a fun and educational way to learn about our colorful past. Located in Champion, Nebraska, the museum has over 1,000 items, some dating back to the 1700's! It has everything from WW1
Imperial, NE MuseumsChampion Mill State Historical Park
The last functional water-powered mill in Nebraska, this two-story structure stands as a symbol of the settlement and development of Nebraska and the West. Champion Mill ground flour and grain from 1888-1968
Imperial, NE State ParksHarlan Lake Camping
North Shore Marina Camping-- Our campground features 75 spaces with large lots, and many pull through spaces. Sewer hookup, water, and 50 amp electrical service is available on every site. "This campground is for RV's only."
, NE Camping