Nebraska's oldest state park (1921), Chadron might well be the best kept secret of the state park system. With the majestic beauty of the Pine Ridge as its backdrop, Chadron covers 974 acres of natural beauty to awe any visitor. Located off U.S. 385 about nine miles south of the town of Chadron, the park is surrounded by the Pine Ridge Division of the Nebraska National Forest.

Chadron offers many of the amenities found at other state parks. Modern housekeeping cabins nestle on the hillsides, blending into the natural landscape. A modern RV campground was built in 1991. Dominating the scene are towering ponderosa pines that have adapted well to the Pine Ridge soils and generally dry climate. The altitude here approaches 5,000 feet in places, which means visitors "can keep their cool" even on warm summer days. Miles of hiking/nature trails meander through the park, connecting with more miles of trails that lace Forest lands. There are short segments for a brief stroll or rugged distances and climbs for the dedicated wilderness buff. All offer a chance to absorb the splendor of the area. Park-goers can also walk or drive to the scenic observation point on Forest land by taking the spur off the main park road in the southwest corner of the park. For those who truly want to escape the hectic pace of everyday life, Chadron State Park is the ideal locale. Here, one can literally retreat to the leisure of a bygone age.

Accommodations

Chadron State Park has lodging accommodations to fit your needs, with 22 housekeeping cabins; 16 have two double beds, while 6 have a queen bed in one bedroom and two twin beds in the other bedroom. Each cabin is furnished with bed linens, blankets and towels. Kitchenettes have stoves, refrigerators, silverware, cooking utensils and towels. Cribs or rollaways are available for a small additional fee, while extra linens are available for the asking. Some of the cabins have patios while others have new decks that make an ideal spot to relax and enjoy nature or grill a meal.

For those who want to stay with a group or schedule a full-blown family reunion, the park offers a multi-use facility that is perfect. The Central Building consists of a dining room that can accommodate 75 people, has a fully equipped kitchen, tables, chairs, and restrooms. Six duplex-style cabins form a horseshoe around the Central Building. Lodging reservations are accepted up to one year in advance and are taken by mail, telephone or in person during regular park office hours. Reservations
must be for a minimum stay of two nights, and an advance deposit for two nights' lodging must be paid within 10 days of reservation confirmation. Deposits cannot be refunded for cancellations or failure to appear. Cabins may be rented for one night on a first-come, first-served basis, if available.

Camping

Campers, too, will enjoy their stay at Chadron at the modern campground, complete with 30 amp electrical hookups, showers, laundry, picnic tables, grills, a playground for the kids and a dump station. Primitive camping is also available for tenters, and all camping is primitive during the off-season. Rates vary depending on facilities. No camping is permitted in the cabin area, only in the designated campground.

Facilities & Activities

Activities are diverse, too, ranging from swimming in the regulation-size pool to trout fishing to pedaling around the park lagoon in a paddleboat. Horseback trail rides and Jeep rides provide more spectacular views of the area. Various crafts are on tap at the Chadron Trading Post, along with snacks and souvenirs. Visitors can savor the history of the region with demonstrations
of old-time fur trader activities and black powder presentations. You can even try your hand at archery, play tennis or sand volleyball at the Lindeken courts. Groups of 30 or more can make arrangements for a buffalo stew cookout. Most activities are available from Memorial weekend through Labor Day.

Picnic Shelters

Five shelters are scattered throughout the park for a picnic lunch, family gathering, or rest stop. All offer scenic views and are equipped with tables, grills and trash barrels. All shelters may be reserved.