You’re driving down I-80 between Lincoln and Omaha, and honestly, it looks like a whole lot of nothing but corn and sky. Then you see the signs for Eugene T Mahoney State Park West Park Highway Ashland NE. Most people just blow right past it. Big mistake. This isn't your average "sit by a campfire and hope a mosquito doesn't eat you" kind of park. It’s basically a high-end resort disguised as a state park, sitting right on the bluffs of the Platte River.
I’ve spent enough time wandering the trails and sitting in the lodge here to tell you that if you think Nebraska is just a flyover state, Mahoney is the place that proves you wrong. It’s 690 acres of pure adrenaline or pure relaxation, depending on which gear you’re in.
The Logistics of Getting to West Park Highway
Getting there is dead simple. You take exit 426. If you’re coming from Omaha, it’s about a 30-minute zip west. From Lincoln, you’re looking at maybe 25 minutes heading east. The address is officially 28500 W Park Hwy, Ashland, NE 68003.
Once you turn onto West Park Highway, the vibe changes instantly. You leave the flat interstate behind and start climbing into the rolling hills. You’ll need a Nebraska Park Entry Permit. Don't try to sneak in; the rangers are nice, but they're thorough. You can grab a daily pass at the gate for about $7 (for NE vehicles) or $14 (for out-of-state), though honestly, just buy the annual pass if you live within a hundred miles. It pays for itself in two trips.
Why the Peter Kiewit Lodge is the Secret Hub
Most people head straight for the water park. That’s fine. But the Peter Kiewit Lodge is where the actual soul of the park lives. It’s got that massive stone fireplace and those huge windows looking out over the Platte River valley.
The lodge has 40 guest rooms. They aren't five-star luxury—think more "upscale cabin"—but the view of the sunrise over the river is unbeatable. If you aren't staying there, you should still hit the restaurant. The fried chicken at the lodge restaurant is a local legend. It’s greasy, salty, and exactly what you need after hiking the trails.
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The Activities Everyone Actually Goes For
Let’s be real. Most families are here for the Ventura Shores Water Park. It’s got a wave pool that’s actually decent and slides that don’t feel like they were built in 1974.
But if you want my advice? Go to the Activity Center.
The Indoor Playground is a massive, multi-level maze that looks like something out of a fever dream for kids. It’s great for when the Nebraska weather turns—which, let’s face it, happens every twenty minutes. There’s also an ice skating rink in the winter and a rock climbing wall.
The Observation Tower: Not for the Faint of Heart
If you want the best photo of the park, you have to climb the Walter Scott Jr. Observation Tower. It’s 70 feet tall. On a clear day, you can see the skylines of both Omaha and Lincoln. It shakes a little when the wind blows. That’s normal. Probably. Just don’t look down if you’re sketchy about heights.
The Cabin Life
Mahoney has 149 cabins. They range from tiny little secluded spots to massive, multi-bedroom houses that could fit a whole family reunion.
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- Modern Amenities: They all have AC, heat, and full kitchens.
- The Vibe: They’re tucked into the woods. You feel isolated even though there are hundreds of people nearby.
- Availability: Good luck getting one on a weekend in June if you didn't book six months ago. Seriously. People plan their entire summers around these bookings.
If you can’t snag a cabin, the campground is solid. It has 149 pads with 20, 30, and 50-amp hookups. It’s paved, mostly level, and the showers are actually clean. That’s a rare win for state parks.
Hidden Gems Near West Park Highway
One thing people forget is that Eugene T Mahoney State Park West Park Highway Ashland NE is part of a larger ecosystem of cool stuff.
Right across the road is the Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum. You can’t miss it; there’s a massive plane sitting out front. It’s one of the best military aviation museums in the country. If you have kids who like "big metal things that fly," you’re going to spend four hours there.
Then there’s Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park and Wildlife Safari. It’s a drive-through park. You stay in your car while bison, elk, and wolves roam around. Don’t roll down your windows. The bison are bigger than your SUV and they don't care about your insurance policy.
The Seasonal Shift
Mahoney is a rare four-season park.
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In the fall, the bluffs turn a deep, rusty orange. It’s arguably the most beautiful spot in the eastern half of the state. In the winter, the sledding hill is the place to be. They have a snowmaking machine, so even if the rest of Nebraska is dry, the hill is usually ready.
Theater in the Woods
Don't ignore the Denman and Mary Mallory Kountze Memorial Theater. They do melodrama. It’s cheesy. It’s loud. You’re supposed to boo the villain and cheer for the hero. It’s the kind of old-school fun that feels weirdly refreshing in the age of TikTok.
Real Talk: The Crowds
Look, it gets crowded. If you go on a Saturday in July, you’re going to be standing in line for ice cream and fighting for a spot at the wave pool.
If you want the "expert" experience, go on a Tuesday. Or go in late September. The air is crisp, the water park is closed (so the crowds are gone), and you can actually hear the wind in the trees instead of someone’s portable speaker.
Actionable Steps for Your Visit
If you’re planning a trip to Eugene T Mahoney State Park West Park Highway Ashland NE, here is how you actually do it right:
- Book early. I’m talking months in advance for cabins. Check the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission website daily for cancellations.
- Download the map. Cell service can be spotty in the ravines near the river. Don't rely on your GPS once you're inside the park gates.
- Pack for variety. Bring hiking boots and a swimsuit. You will use both.
- Check the event calendar. They do fishing clinics, stargazing nights, and guided hikes that aren't always publicized on the main entrance signs.
- Hit the driving range. The park has a driving range and a mini-golf course. The mini-golf is surprisingly challenging and usually less crowded than the pool area.
Mahoney isn't just a park; it's a testament to what you can do with a bit of Nebraska bluff land and some vision. Whether you're there for the high-speed slides or just to watch the Platte River roll by, it's worth the exit off the interstate. Just remember to bring your permit and leave the place better than you found it.