Niobrara National Scenic River, located in north-central Nebraska, encompasses roughly 76 miles of the Niobrara River and offers visitors a unique and scenic experience. The river is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including towering cliffs, lush valleys, and abundant flora and fauna.
Established as a National Scenic River in 1991, the Niobrara River holds great historical significance. Native Americans, including the Ponca, Pawnee, and Omaha tribes, have lived along the river for centuries. European settlers later arrived, and over time, the area became a pivotal crossing point for pioneers traveling westward in the mid-1800s. Today, remnants of this history can still be found, ranging from the preserved wagon ruts at the river's edge to the sacred sites of Native American tribes.
The Niobrara National Scenic River offers a wide range of activities for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Canoeing and kayaking are particularly popular, allowing visitors to navigate the crystal-clear waters of the river while enjoying the breathtaking scenery. The river's gentle currents and occasional rapids provide an exciting challenge for paddlers of all skill levels. Nature lovers can explore the area's diverse ecosystems by hiking the several trails available, where they can spot unique bird species, wildlife, and vibrant wildflowers.
The region surrounding the Niobrara National Scenic River is also home to several attractions worth checking out. Smith Falls State Park, located near the river's headwaters, boasts Nebraska's tallest waterfall and offers camping and hiking facilities. Furthermore, Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge provides opportunities for wildlife viewing, featuring bison, elk, and prairie dogs, among other animals. Additionally, visitors can explore the nearby town of Valentine, which offers lodging, dining, and various local shops.
Overall, Niobrara National Scenic River is a captivating destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in Nebraska's natural beauty and rich history. With its picturesque landscapes, recreational activities, and nearby attractions, the river offers a diverse and memorable experience for all who visit.
Located in the northeastern region of Nebraska, Niobrara National Scenic River stretches 76 miles through the rolling plains and unique ecosystems of Boyd, Keya Paha, and Brown Counties. This captivating river flows from near the town of Valentine, meandering its way towards Nebraska's border with South Dakota, before eventually merging with the mighty Missouri River. Embraced by picturesque bluffs and sprawling grasslands, the Niobrara National Scenic River offers visitors an enchanting blend of rugged beauty, abundant wildlife, and tranquil landscapes. This remarkable location within the state showcases the diverse geographical wonders that Nebraska has to offer.
214 W US Highway 20Valentine, NE 69201Driving DirectionsPhone: 4023761901Web: Link
The best time to visit Niobrara National Scenic River is in May or June. These months offer pleasant weather with average maximum temperatures of 70°F and 82°F respectively. They also have moderate levels of precipitation, with May receiving an average of 4.1 inches and June receiving 3.9 inches. These months are also ideal for outdoor activities.
Additionally, visiting during May or June allows you to avoid the peak visitor season, which occurs in July and August. During these months, the average visitor count is much higher, at 5,694 and 5,496 respectively. By visiting in May or June, you can enjoy the beauty of Niobrara National Scenic River without large crowds.
Some of the activities you can do in Niobrara National Scenic River are: Astronomy Stargazing Guided Tours Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Park Film Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Biking Camping Hiking Fishing Hunting and Gathering Hunting Paddling Canoeing Kayaking Tubing Stand Up Paddleboarding River Tubing
Learn about these topics at Niobrara National Scenic River: Animals Birds Geology Groundwater Freshwater Springs Night Sky Fossils and Paleontology River and Riparian Unique Species Forests and Woodlands Grasslands Scenic Views Waterfalls Forts Deciduous Forests Bison Elk Coniferous Forests Aquifers Prairies Ranches Farming and Agriculture
Begin your journey down the Niobrara at the visitor center, where you may discover what makes this river so special through exhibits and a twenty minute park film. Park rangers are on hand to answer questions, help you plan your trip, or give you a list of outfitters who will provide transportation and canoes, kayaks, or tubes.
The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Niobrara National Scenic River Visitor Center.
This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).
Located in Valentine, Quality Inn Rosebud Casino is within a 15-minute drive of Trailhead Park and Cherry County Historical Society Museum. Featured amenities include wired Internet access (surcharge), a safe deposit box at the front desk, and an elevator. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.
Address: Highway 83, Valentine, Nebraska 57555
Web: Link
With a stay at The Niobrara Lodge in Valentine, you'll be within a 15-minute walk of Cherry County Historical Society Museum and Niobrara National Scenic River Headquarters. Featured amenities include a business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 803 East Highway #20, Valentine, Nebraska 69201
Web: Link
With a stay at Harmony Inn & Suites, you'll be centrally located in Valentine, just a 3-minute walk from Cherry County Historical Society Museum and 5 minutes by foot from Niobrara National Scenic River Headquarters. Featured amenities include a business center, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 304 E Highway 20, Valentine, Nebraska 69201
Web: Link
With a stay at Super 8 by Wyndham Valentine NE in Valentine, you'll be within a 5-minute walk of Cherry County Historical Society Museum and Niobrara National Scenic River Headquarters. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 223 East Highway 20, Valentine, Nebraska 69201-06
Web: Link
With a stay at Trade Winds Motel in Valentine, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Cherry County Historical Society Museum and Niobrara National Scenic River Headquarters. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 1009 E. Hwy 20, Valentine, Nebraska 69201
Web: Link
A stay at Comfort Inn Valentine places you in the heart of Valentine, steps from Trailhead Park and Niobrara National Scenic River Headquarters. Featured amenities include a business center, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 101 S Main St, Valentine, Nebraska 69201
Web: Link
When you stay at Raine Motel in Valentine, you'll be near the airport, within a 15-minute walk of Cherry County Historical Society Museum and Trailhead Park. Featured amenities include complimentary newspapers in the lobby, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. A roundtrip airport shuttle is complimentary (available 24 hours).
Address: 618 W Highway 20, Valentine, Nebraska 69201
Web: Link
| Date issued | Details |
|---|---|
| 2026-03-09 | Niobrara National Scenic River Issues Call for Art for 35th Anniversary Open Show Niobrara National Scenic River is inviting artists to submit original works for an open art show commemorating the river’s 35th anniversary in May 2026. More |
| 2026-02-03 | Life Jackets Required! By Nebraska State law, all children 13 years old and younger must WEAR a USCG approved life jacket to float the Niobrara NSR. Anyone over 13 years old must HAVE a life jacket. If you are renting equipment, your outfitter will provide them. |
| 2025-09-12 | National Park Rangers to Assist UNL with Niobrara River Cleanup on National Public Lands Day National Park Rangers from Niobrara National Scenic River will join the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Outdoor Adventures Program for a river cleanup event on Saturday, Sept. 27, in honor of National Public Lands Day. More |
| 2025-09-12 | Visiting Scholar to Discuss Women’s History at Niobrara National Scenic River Sept. 25 Nancy B. Johnson, independent scholar, Humanities Nebraska, is scheduled to present the program “Myths of Women’s Madness on the Plains,” on September 25, 2025, at 6:00 pm CDT at the Niobrara National Scenic River Visitor Center. More |
| 2025-09-08 | Explore the Night Sky The Niobrara National Scenic River, in collaboration with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and the Nature Conservancy, is excited to announce a series of enchanting night sky events this fall. These events offer a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of the night sky and the fascinating nocturnal creatures that inhabit our region. More |
| 2025-09-04 | Niobrara National Scenic River Visitor Center Announces Off-Season Hours and New Stamp Station As fall approaches, the Niobrara National Scenic River Visitor Center will transition to its off-season schedule. Saturday, Sept. 20, will be the final weekend day the Visitor Center is open for the 2025 season. More |