Valentine’s Day featured in February at state parks

Whether it’s a nice Valentine’s Day dinner or a cozy stay in a warm cabin, you can find them in February in Nebraska’s state parks.

Don’t forget to purchase a vehicle park entry permit to enter Nebraska Game and Parks state parks. Get one at OutdoorNebraska.gov or at state park entrances.

Enjoy Valentine’s getaway at Niobrara State Park

Niobrara State Park will host a special Valentine’s getaway Feb. 6-7 and Feb. 13-14.

Guests can get a 30% discount on lodging, with early check-in and late check-out. They also will get a complimentary package from local businesses.

Call the park at 402-857-3373 to make reservations.

Enjoy Valentine's Day cabin getaway at Lewis and Clark

Reserve a lake-view cabin for a minimum two-night stay at Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area on Feb. 6-8 or 13-15 and get a 30% discount.

A Sweetheart Package can be added for $35. This includes early check-in and late check-out, waived pet fee, beverages, snacks, flowers, sweet treats and more.

Reserve your stay by calling the park office at 402-388-4169.

Valentine's Getaway at Ponca SP set for two weekends

Unlock a 30% cabin discount with the Valentine's Getaway at Ponca State Park package. A minimum two-night stay is required for the discount Feb. 6-8 or Feb. 13-15.

Guests will receive a voucher for a complimentary bottle of wine, which may be redeemed at Cedar Hills Bar and Grill in Ponca. There is a limit of one per cabin.

At 10 a.m. Feb. 7, join park naturalists and the Loess Hill Audubon Society for a birding presentation, followed by birding in the park. At 10 a.m. Feb. 14, Bluebirds Across Nebraska also will join the presentation before the birding hike.

Call the park at 402-755-2284 to make a cabin reservation. A Couples’ Package can be added to a reservation for $35. It includes beverages, snacks, flowers, sweet treats, and more.

Mystery at the Mansion is Feb. 13, 21 at Arbor Lodge

Come to Arbor Lodge State Historical Park in Nebraska City for two fun evenings of Mystery at the Mansion. Enjoy A Villain’s Vendetta at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 13 or At the Hatter’s Mardi Gras Ball at 6 p.m. Feb. 21.

These old-fashioned mysteries, which guests may participate in, will take place at Arbor Lodge Mansion. Guests, who should arrive 15 minutes early, are encouraged to wear costumes. Prizes will be awarded at the beginning of the evening for the best and most creative attire. Additional props will be available for the mystery.

Cost is $35, and space is limited. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Visit the event listing at Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov to buy tickets or for information.

Mahoney SP will host Valentine’s special

Reserve a select cabin or lodge room Feb. 13-14 at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park and celebrate Valentine’s Day.

Two-bedroom cabins are $190-$210 per night, before tax, while lodge rooms are $110-$130.

For another $55, add the Valentine’s Package, which includes two stocking hats, two wine glasses, Baker’s chocolates, hot chocolate, popcorn, raffle tickets for prizes, tickets to activities, and a 2026 Nebraskaland calendar.

Contact Group Functions at 402-944-2901 to make a reservation and the park office at 402-944-2523 about available activities.

Ponca SP to host naturalist-led hike

Participate in a monthly naturalist-led group hike Feb. 14 and learn about the flora and fauna found at Ponca State Park.

Meet at the West Shelter at 10 a.m. and enjoy the scenic views, native wildlife, and fellowship until 12:30 p.m. Along the way, naturalists will talk about the cultural and natural history of the park. The trail will end with a warm fire and fresh baked dessert in a Dutch oven.

Spots are limited and registration is required by calling the park office at 402-755-2284. The cost is $15.

These group hikes take place on the second Saturday through April.

Platte River SP hosting Valentine's Day dinner

Visit scenic Platte River State Park for a romantic Valentine’s Day Steak Night on Feb. 14 at the Walter Scott Jr. Lodge and Restaurant.

The dinner, served from 4-9 p.m., will include choices of steak, chicken, fish, appetizers, a salad bar, and more. Visit the calendar event entry at Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov to see the menu. Call 402-234-2217 for reservations.

Valentine’s Teas scheduled at Arbor Lodge

Enjoy a Valentine’s Tea on Feb. 14 in the sunroom of Arbor Lodge Mansion at Arbor Lodge State Historical Park.

Guests will be treated to an assortment of teas and dainty brunch and dessert selections, along with musical entertainment and a brief history of Valentine’s Day greetings.

Participants also may explore the mansion and view the special “Love Is in the Air” exhibit, featuring displays of Morton Family weddings and vintage Valentine card collections.

The teas will be at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The cost is $30, which includes mansion admission and entrance to the tea. Visit the calendar event entry at Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov to purchase tickets.

Call 402-873-7222 for more information.