Niobrara National Scenic River

Berry Falls along the Niobrara NSR.

Berry Falls is one of over 200 waterfalls that visitors may see along the Niobrara National Scenic River's bluffs.

With a little something for everyone, the Niobrara National Scenic River is a destination for crossing adventures off your bucket list. Most popular for river recreation, you can float the Niobrara River on a canoe, tube, or kayak as a beginner and have a blast. Hiking, biking, and wildlife watching keep our visitors busy. Oh! And we haven't even told you about the waterfalls yet.

Canoeing the Niobrara NSR

The Niobrara is a peaceful place to paddle during the week.

Relaxing canoeing on the Niobrara NSR

Much of the Niobrara National Scenic River is easy paddling, suitable for novice canoers.

Egelhoffs Rapids on the Niobrara NSR

An experienced canoer takes on the Class II Egelhoffs Rapids along the Niobrara National Scenic River.

Fall colors along the Niobrara NSR

Autumn is a perfect time to enjoy the beauty of the Niobrara National Scenic River, from the river or the banks.

Taking photos along the Niobrara NSR

Parts of the river are shallow and meandering, making beautiful backdrops for people to take photographs.

Tubers congregate at Smith Falls State Park

On Saturdays, the Niobrara National Scenic River is a great place to meet hundreds of other tubers.

Campsite B-36

RecAreaDirections

Most visitors start their trip in the city of Valentine, Nebraska. Valentine is 76 miles south of I-90 (Murdo, SD Exit) on Hwy 83; or 130 miles north of I-80 (North Platte, NE Exit) on Hwy 83.

The nearest major airports are in Rapid City, SD (220 miles); Denver, CO (391 miles); and Omaha, NE (300 miles)

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Facilities

Niobrara National Scenic River Visitor Center Facility

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.

Recreation Areas and Campground Database