Niobrara National Scenic River
Guide

Diverse ecosystems and plant communities are present within Niobrara River Valley, a site noted for the habitation of plants that thrive outside of their normal geographic limits. You’ll find that northern, western, and eastern forest ecosystems thrive in the area, in addition to three Great Plains prairie plant communities. All of these add up to about 160 plant species inhabiting the park.

Excellent opportunities for game hunting are available at Niobrara National Scenic River, making the park a favored destination for hunters and trappers. If you fancy such activities, you’ll find waterfowl, game birds, white-tailed deer, as well as other wildlife that you can hunt for within the park’s area.

Note that public land available for hunting along the Niobrara is limited, while on the other hand, most of the land where hunting occurs is on private property. As a result, you’ll need to request permission from the landowner(s) before hunting on private property. Appropriate licenses are required too.

A diverse array of bird life calls the Niobrara Valley home. Visitors are likely to see great herons around the river; white pelicans, cormorants, and green herons migrating in spring; spotted sandpipers along the sandbars; and kingfishers on the water surface. Other birds you’ll find at the park include bald eagles, peregrine falcons, whooping cranes, and least tern.

In addition to these birds, several threatened and endangered bird species on federal and state lists are commonly found in Niobrara.

The majority of the visitors at Niobrara National Scenic River come there to float on the river either by canoe, kayak, tube, or raft. That’s because the activity is extremely enjoyable and refreshing. As a result, the park is a popular destination for these water-related recreational activities.

Whether in summer, spring, or fall, you’re guaranteed a wonderful paddling experience in your watercraft. What’s more is that there are opportunities to socialize with other paddlers while enjoying these activities. If you’d prefer a quiet trip, there’s room for that also.

If you’re an angling enthusiast, then you’ll find that there are plenty of opportunities for you to enjoy fishing along the Niobrara National Scenic River as well as its many tributaries. Brown trout and rainbow trout are present within the tributaries of the river, and many skilled anglers are presented with challenges when trying to catch them.

Bait and lure fishing methods are sufficient to catch channel catfish, bluegill, carp, grass pickerel, and many other fish species available in the river. Remember you’ll need to have a valid fishing license to fish here.

The Visitor Center at Niobrara National Scenic River is a great place to visit for its exhibits which provide information about Niobrara. At the center, a film about the park is on hand, as well as park rangers who are available to answer all your questions. Kids activities are also hosted at the center.

Attractions nearby include the Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge, Niobrara Valley Preserve, and Smith Falls State Park. Guided walks and programs that tell stories about the park are offered by rangers at some of these areas too.