Mahoney State Park: Ideal Visiting Time, Cost, and Best Activities

Nebraska is home to amazing wildlife and gorgeous open areas of land. The people in Nebraska know what hard work looks like, and they know when it’s time to relax. One of the most common places to hang out around is Mahoney State Park. Located in Ashland, Nebraska, about 30 minutes outside of Omaha, Mahoney has something for everyone. The proximity to Omaha makes it convenient for many Nebraskans who wish to enjoy it. If you’ve never been to Mahoney State Park, this is your full guide for everything you’ll need to know before you head over there.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Mahoney State Park?

Due to all of the outdoors activities, it’s best to visit Mahoney State Park in the late spring, summer, and early fall. These seasons in Nebraska can be hot, especially with the humidity levels that the state experiences. These times of year are also the sunniest in the Omaha area. The combination of the heat, humidity, and sunshine make this the best time to come to the great park. When you arrive, there are tons of different activities for the whole family to enjoy. So, what exactly are these activities at Mahoney State Park?

What Activities Does Mahoney State Park Have?

No matter who you are, there will be at least one activity that you’ll enjoy when you go to Mahoney State Park. For those who are looking to just take some time to relax, there are plenty of options. There’s a water park with a lazy river, fishing, and outdoor areas that you can put a chair out and read at. Those who are looking for a little bit of thrill are also covered. You can adventure on a ropes course, go hiking on one of the many trails offered, rock climb indoors, horseback ride, or bike around the beautiful facility.

Golfers of any kind are covered, as there is a full driving range, 18 hole mini golf course, and 18 hole disc golf course. Families were thought of when creating this wonderful area. There’s a full activity center, playground, swimming area, and easy hiking trails for those families wanting to be active. If a family wants to spend time relaxing together, there are still options for them. There’s a theater and plenty of picnic areas for families to go and spend time together at.

If you’re having so much fun that you don’t want to leave, Mahoney State Park has plenty of different options. There are cabins and a lodge that you can stay at should you want the comfort of indoors. For those who want to spend time in nature, there are areas to set up camp at and enjoy.

During the summer, there’s a specific program that Mahoney State Park has. The experience is designed so that those who do it will gain an appreciation of the outdoors and what all it can offer. You’ll also learn about different natural resources you’d be able to find within the great state of Nebraska. So how much does it cost to go to this amazing place?

How Much Does Mahoney State Park Cost?

The answer to this is really dependent upon what you want to do during the day and visit. Regardless of what you want to do, you’ll need to have an entry permit, which is $35 for those from Nebraska for the year or $7 for the day. If you’re not from Nebraska, a yearly permit costs $70 while a daily pass is $14. After that, it truly depends on what you want to do. The indoor rock climbing wall is $11 for adults and $10 for kids.

If you’re looking to golf, a bucket of balls is $5, while the entire mini golf course is $5 per person. The adventure course costs up to $60 per person. Going to the pool will be a cost of $10 per adult and $8 per child. A guided horseback experience costs $25. The picnic areas, hiking, and any sport area is free to do. Just be sure to clean up after yourself.

What Animals Might You Come Across At Mahoney State Park?

Being a state park comes with having a multitude of different animals. Mahoney State Park is no different. Many different species of animals can be found at the park. While there, you might come across snakes or frogs. The park is home to different types of birds. You might require a guide and checklist to highlight all that you see. If you’re lucky, a deer might come across your path. Inside the rivers is a diverse ecosystem of fish. Mahoney State Park has not only some of the best attractions, but amazing wildlife you could want to see.

Mahoney State Park is truly one of the gems in all of Nebraska. The day can become whatever you want it to be. The cost is also dependent upon what you’re looking for. There are plenty of options for those who wish to have a budget outdoors experience. You can also spend money to have a high quality day doing fun activities with the whole family or group you’re with. No matter what, going to Mahoney State Park is an incredibly fun experience that should be enjoyed by all of those who can.