
Hunting
There are numerous hunting options in the North Platte area. For more information on seasons and requirements go to http://outdoornebraska.gov/hunting/ for easy permitting go to http://outdoornebraska.gov/mobilepermits/ Fortunately we have a wide variety of public lands in the area and many of them are open to hunters during the appropriate season.
Public Land Guidelines
North Platte and Lincoln County are blessed with a wide variety of public lands that contain a number of different ecosystems as you’d expect in a region with such a varied topography. Most of these lands are open to a variety of different recreational uses.
Guide to Wildlife Management Areas
Hunters and anglers pay the entire bill for the acquisition, development and maintenance of these areas through the purchase of hunting and fishing permits and Habitat Stamps and through excise taxes on hunting and fishing equipment.
Current, valid State Park Entry Permits may be required on your vehicle for access to these lands. To protect these areas and their many assets, there are certain rules that all must abide by. This is just a synopsis of the guidelines that apply to the public use of public lands. For answers to specific questions, please contact your local Game and Parks Commission office or conservation officer.
We hope your outing is an enjoyable one … but remember, the true nature enthusiast leaves nothing behind but footprints.
Camping
- Camping is permitted unless otherwise posted or restricted by special area regulations. Camping is truly primitive, for generally there are no facilities on these areas.
- Special permission is required for group camping on any state wildlife area by any type of group, such as Scouts, 4-H, civic clubs or other organizations. To obtain a “Special Occasion Permit,” contact the area manager, District Wildlife Manager or the Game and Parks Commission in Lincoln.
House Pets, Horses and Livestock
- House pets (dogs, cats, etc.) are allowed when camping or on other outings, unless otherwise posted or prohibited by special area regulations. However, they must be kept on leash or otherwise physically restrained.
- Horseback riding is permitted, except where posted otherwise.
- Grazing or ranging domestic livestock or poultry is not permitted, except by written permission of the Game and Parks Commission.
Dog Training/Running
- Wildlife areas are open to dog training, exercise, running and hunting (in season), except from May 1 through July 31 of each year. However, some areas may be posted as closed or special area regulations may apply. Professional dog trainers are prohibited from using these areas for training.
- Where an area is posted as an “Authorized Dog Training Area,” training is permitted year-round. Lands posted as “Dog Trial Areas” are closed to dog training activities.
Fires and Fireworks
- Open fires are permitted only in fireplaces, grills, or fire rings where provided by the Commission. Visitors may also use their personal gas/propane stoves, charcoal grills and the like. All other fires are prohibited.
- The use of any kind of fireworks is unlawful at all times.
Swimming, Wading and Boating
- Where swimming is permitted, all flotation devices are prohibited except for U.S. Coast Guard approved life preservers.
- Wading is allowed when fishing, hunting or trapping, although some areas may be posted against wading due to hazardous conditions.
- Boating is permitted as posted on each area or as specified in the current Nebraska Boating Guide.
- Swimming is prohibited in waters on state wildlife areas, except where swimming facilities are specifically provided and the area is posted to allow swimming.
Motor Vehicles
- All motorized vehicles are restricted to roadways, parking areas or trails specifically designated for vehicle use. No off-road vehicles are permitted.
- Traffic signs are posted on some areas, but regardless of whether signed or not, all vehicles must be operated at a speed and manner that is reasonable and prudent under prevailing conditions.
Fishing, Hunting, Trapping and Target Shooting
State wildlife areas are open to fishing, hunting, and trapping, in season, except where closed (or restricted) by signing or special area regulations. Please check the current Hunting Guide or Fishing Guide for specific regulations. Target shooting is permitted on most areas, although there are a few where this activity is prohibited. They are posted with appropriate signs. Use caution when using these lands during a hunting season.
List of Public Lands and Lakes

Birdwood Lake

Box Elder Canyon

Brady Interchange

Cedar Valley

Chester Island

East Hershey

East Sutherland

Fremont Slough

Hershey

Muskrat Run

NCORPE

North River

Pawnee Slough

Platte

Sutherland Reservoir State Recreation Area

Wapiti

Wellfleet Lake

West Brady

West Gothenburg
