Rec Area Rules

Rec Area Rules

Wondering about what is okay at our recreation areas and what is prohibited? Check out these rules and regulations on everything from hunting to fireworks to make sure that everyone has a safe and fun time while visiting our parks!

NEW RULES & REGULATIONS GO INTO EFFECT JULY 28, 2026.  The new Rules and Regulations are listed by chapter below and are available in PDF format by clicking here: RULE 6.

Rule changes include, but are not limited to:

  • RV camping fee increased to $25 per night at Anderson/Recharge Lake and Pioneer Trails.
  • Camping is permitted for a maximum of 14 days during any 30-day period within a single recreation area.
  • Hunting areas changed at some of the recreation areas.  Hunting is no longer allowed at Pioneer Trails.
  • Water skis, jet skis, SCUBA diving, skateboarding, roller skating, and snowmobiles are prohibited at all recreation areas.
  • Overland Trail and Teal View are open from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sundown.  No camping at either of these areas.
  • A Youth Camping Area was designated at Anderson/Recharge Lake.  Youth organizations may camp for free, but must notify the Upper Big Blue NRD to register at least three days in advance.
  • Visitors committing a crime on NRD Recreation Area property will be banned from NRD Recreation Areas for one (1) year.

Authority

Rule 6, Chapter 1 - Authority

01    Under the provisions of Chapters 2 and 39, Revised Statutes of Nebraska the following rules and regulations are adopted and promulgated by the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District to govern the administration, use, maintenance and protection of all parks and recreation areas under the ownership or control of the District.

02    These rules and regulations are effective as of July 28, 2026.

Applicability

Rule 6, Chapter 2 - Applicability

01    These rules and regulations shall apply to all persons entering, using, residing in, visiting, or who are otherwise within the boundaries of any district owned or controlled park or recreation area administered by the District.

02    District real property shall be open to public access only after the rules and regulations governing the use of the area have been adopted by the board.

Definitions

Rule 6, Chapter 3 - Definitions

01    Camping is defined as the temporary lodging out-of-doors for outdoor recreational purposes and presupposes occupancy of a shelter designed for such purpose (i.e. sleeping bag, tent, trailer or other recreational vehicle).

02    Campground means a designated area developed for camping with individual campsites and may include such facilities as shelters, tables, grills, toilets or improved pads for recreational vehicles.  Water and/or electricity may or may not be provided.

03    Campsite means that space in a Campground for the use of one camping party and one camping unit.  Campsites in a Campground are designated by individually numbered posts.  Water and/or electricity may or may not be provided.

04    Camping Party means a group of no more than 6 people, or a family (parents, or guardians, with minor children) allowed in one campsite.

05    Camping Unit means the maximum combination of camping equipment allowed in 1 campsite.  The allowable combinations of camping equipment are:

  • 05.01    1 passenger vehicle and 2 tents; or
  • 05.02    1 motorized vehicle towing a camping trailer and 2 tents; or 
  • 05.03    1 recreational vehicle, 1 towed passenger vehicle and 2 tents.

06    District means the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District.

07    Law enforcement officer means any duly constituted and credentialed law enforcement officer, local, state or federal, including Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Conservation Officers.

08    Manager means the general manager of the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District, or his/her designee.

09    Person means any individual, partnership, corporation, the state and its agencies and subdivisions and anybody of persons, whether incorporated or not.

10    Recreation area means all District owned or controlled parks and recreation areas, administered by the District.

11    Recreational Vehicle means a motor vehicle designed for living quarters.

12    Register means to provide written information on forms provided in order to occupy a specific campsite in a Campground

13    Roadway means that portion of a highway or recreation area interior road, designed or ordinarily used for vehicular travel

14    Youth Camping means a designated general area, without facilities or individual campsites, for use by Youth Organizations.

15    Youth Organization means an organized group of young people 18 years of age and younger, sponsored by and accompanied by adult representative of the organization including but not limited to the Boy Scouts of America or Girl Scouts of America, or church sponsored groups.  Youth organization does not include families of members of the organization. 

Abandoned Property

Rule 6, Chapter 4 - Abandoned Property

01    Abandonment of any vehicle or other personal property is prohibited and such property may be impounded by the manager or law enforcement officer.

02    Leaving any vehicle or other personal property unattended for longer than 24 hours, without prior permission of the manager, is prohibited and any property so left may be impounded by the manager or law enforcement officer.  If any unattended vehicle or other personal property is suspected of having been used in any illegal activities it may be immediately impounded by a law enforcement officer.

03    In the event unattended property interferes with the safe or orderly management of the recreation area, it may be impounded.

04    Any vehicle or other personal property impounded will be at the expense of the owner.

05    Any personal property impounded and not claimed within 30 days will be disposed of by the NRD or towing and recovery company.

Aircraft and Powerless Flight, Drones

Rule 6, Chapter 5 - Aircraft and Powerless Flight, Drones

01    The operation or use of aircraft on lands or waters other than landing areas designated in special regulations is prohibited.

02    Where water surface is designated as a landing area, the operation or use of aircraft on the water within 500 feet of bathing beaches, boat docks, piers, ramps or water control structures is prohibited.

03    Except in extreme emergencies involving the safety of human life or threat of serious property loss, the air delivery of any person or thing by parachute, helicopter or other means without prior written permission of the District is prohibited.

04    The provisions of this section shall not be applicable to aircraft engaged in official business of the federal or state government or the District or used in emergency rescue or forced to land due to circumstances beyond the control of the operator.

05    The launching or landing of sailplanes, gliders, balloons, body kites, hang gliders, ultra lights and other devices designed to carry persons or objects through the air in powerless flight is prohibited without a written permit from the District specifying the conditions under which such launching or landing is to be conducted.

06    Drones may not be flown over groups of people, playgrounds, boat docks, or campground areas.

Audio Devices and Generators

Rule 6, Chapter 6 - Audio Devices and Generators

01    The operation or use of any audio device, including a radio, television set, musical instrument or a device producing noise such as an electric generating plant, a motor vehicle, a motorized toy or other equipment driven by a motor or engine in such a manner or at such time so as to unreasonably annoy or endanger persons in campgrounds, picnic areas or at other public places or gatherings, is prohibited.

02    The operation or use of a public address system, whether fixed, portable or vehicle mounted, on lands, waters or highways, is prohibited, except when such use or operation is in connection with a public gathering or special event for which a permit has been issued.

03    Power units used to generate electricity shall not be operated between the hours of 10 p.m. and 8 a.m., nor at hours of the day if the operation causes a disturbance for other uses or visitors.

Begging and Soliciting

Rule 6, Chapter 7 - Begging and Soliciting

01    Begging is prohibited.

02    Hitchhiking or the soliciting of transportation is prohibited, except in emergencies and cases of vehicle breakdown.

03    Commercial and/or private soliciting of any kind is prohibited, provided that this shall not apply to transactions with authorized concessionaires.

Camping

Rule 6, Chapter 8 - Camping

01    Camping is permitted only at locations designated as Campgrounds, or Youth Camping Areas.  

02    Camping is permitted for a maximum of 14 days on any single Campground or during any 30-day period.

03    Tent camping is not allowed within 100 yards of any picnic shelter.

04    The installation of permanent camping facilities is prohibited.

05    The digging or leveling of ground at any campsite is prohibited except with permission of the manager.

06    All vehicles and trailers must be on paved or gravel surfaces except as otherwise permitted.

07    Camper units may not exceed 8 ½ feet in width and 40 feet in length as defined by Nebraska Revised Statutes.

08    Camping equipment must be completely removed and the sites cleaned prior to departure.

09    Quiet shall be maintained in all campgrounds and camping areas between the hours of 10 p.m. and 8 a.m.

10    Where indicated by appropriate sign at the entrance to a designated Campground, or Youth Camping Area, permission to enter or occupy such area is reserved to campers between the hours of 10 p.m. and 8 a.m.  No other persons shall have permission to enter or occupy such areas unless specifically authorized by the manager.

11    Campgrounds

  • 11.01    Campsites are designated by individually numbered posts.
  • 11.02    The pitching of tents or parking of trailers or other camping units is permitted only at designated campsites.
  • 11.03    Campsite capacity is limited to
    • 11.03.a    1 Camping Party of no more than 6 people, or 
    • 11.03.b    a family (parents, or guardians, with minor children) and
    • 11.03.c    one Camping Unit consists of 1 passenger vehicle and 2 tents; 1 motorized vehicle towing a camping trailer and 2 tents; 1 recreational vehicle and 2 tents, 1 towed passenger vehicle and 2 tents.
    • 11.03.d    Exceeding a campsite capacity may result in the camping party being required to acquire and register for an additional campsite, if available, or being evicted from the Campground.
  • 11.04    Only 1 electrical user is allowed per campsite with an electrical hookup.  Plug-ins shall not exceed the number of receptacles provided at the pedestal.
  • 11.05    Registration
    • 11.05.a    Each camping party must register at the Campground to occupy a campsite.  A representative of a camping party shall register for the group by filling out the Camping Permit registration form.  The registration form shall include at a minimum:
      • 11.05.a.1    Campsite number
      • 11.05.a.2    Date
      • 11.05.a.3    Length of stay
      • 11.05.a.4    Amount of fee deposited
      • 11.05.a.5    Number in camping party
      • 11.05.a.6    Name of person registering
      • 11.05.a.7    Address of person registering
      • 11.05.a.8    License number of vehicle or camping trailer
      • 11.05.b    Camping Permit
        • 11.05.b.1    A Camping Permit is valid only for the Campground where purchased.
        • 11.05.b.2    It is the responsibility of the camping party to complete the pay envelope, tear off the receipt which shall be the Camping Permit, and deposit payment in the pay envelope into the drop box provided.
        • 11.05.b.3    The Camping Permit shall be displayed in the space provided on the individually numbered post at the campsite occupied so as to be readily visible for inspection.
        • 11.05.b.4    Camping Permits are non-transferrable.
        • 11.05.b.5    Failure to register with all appropriate information may result in eviction from the campground.
      • 11.05.c    Fees
        • 11.05.c.1    Camping Fees are listed in Appendix G
      • 11.05.d    Rental Conditions
        • 11.05.d.1    The campsite must be occupied by a member of the camping party on the first night of the rental period.
        • 11.05.d.2    Camping equipment placed on a campsite by an unregistered party or any equipment left on a campsite after the end of the rental period may be removed by the NRD.  Such equipment may be claimed by contacting the campground staff or the NRD office.
        • 11.05.d.3    Camping parties intending to occupy the same campsite for the next night must re-register by 2 p.m., unless they have pre-paid for a multi-day period at the time of registration.
        • 11.05.d.4    If payment has not been made by the 3rd day of camping, the camping unit may be impounded by the NRD and/or the Sheriff or other law enforcement officer.

12    Youth Camping Areas

  • 12.01    Youth Organizations are the only ones allowed to camp in Youth Camping Areas.
  • 12.02    Camping is allowed anywhere within a Youth Camping Area.  Campsites are not designated.
  • 12.03    Youth Organizations must have a responsible adult supervising the group at all times.
  • 12.04    Registration
    • 12.04.a    A Youth Organization adult leader may reserve a Youth Camping Area for a specific Youth Organization for specific dates by contacting the NRD office.
    • 12.04.b    Registration at the NRD office is required at least 3 business days in advance of the date of the intended camping.
    • 12.04.c    The Registration shall include;
      • 12.04.c.1    Name of the Youth Organization
      • 12.04.c.2    Number of adult leaders or supervisors
      • 12.04.c.3    Number of young campers (those 18 years old or less)
      • 12.04.c.4    Name, address and phone number of the adult in charge who is camping with the Youth Organization
      • 12.04.c.5    Dates of the camping event
      • 12.04.c.6    Youth Camp Area requested
    • 12.04.d    Fees
      • 12.04.d.1    No fees are charged for Youth Organizations in a designated Youth Camping Area.

Day Use Areas and Amphitheatres

Rule 6, Chapter 9 - Day Use Areas and Amphitheaters

01    Picnic shelters are available on a first come first serve basis.

  • 01.01    Picnic tables shall not to be removed from picnic shelters.
  • 01.02    Picnic tables shall not to be removed from designated picnic areas.
  • 01.03    Visitors shall clean up picnic shelters, picnic tables and the surrounding grounds immediately after use.
  • 01.04    Electrical outlets at picnic shelters are for day use only.  These outlets are not to be used for overnight camping.

02    Amphitheater

  • 02.01    The Amphitheater may be used for daytime or night time events.
  • 02.02    The Amphitheater may be used between the hours of 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. unless an organization or responsible person has reserved the Amphitheater.
  • 02.03    Amplified sound is permitted between the hours of 8 a.m. and 10 p.m.
  • 02.04    Visitors are responsible for cleaning up the Amphitheater and surrounding grounds immediately after use.
  • 02.05    The Amphitheater is available on a first come first serve basis unless it has been reserved.
    • 2.05.a    An organization or person may reserve the Amphitheater for specific dates by contacting the NRD office.
    • 2.05.b    Reservation at the NRD office is required at least 3 business days in advance of the date of the occasion.
    • 2.05.c    The Reservation shall include;
      • 2.05.c.1    Name of the Organization if it is an event of an Organization
      • 2.05.c.2    Name, address and phone number of the Responsible Person who will be at the event
      • 2.05.c.3    Type of event (Nature talk, college class, wedding, etc.)
      • 2.05.c.4    Expected number of people in attendance
      • 2.05.c.5    Date, time and length of event
      • 2.05.c.6    Amplified sound equipment and/or lights

Closures

Rule 6, Chapter 10 - Closures

01    The District may establish a reasonable schedule of visiting hours for all or portions of a recreation area and close to public use all or any portion of a recreation area when necessary for the protection of an area or the safety and welfare of persons or property, by the posting of appropriate signs indicating the extent and scope of such closure.

02    All persons shall observe and abide by officially posted signs designating closed areas and visiting hours.

Dogs, Cats, Other Pets, and Livestock

Rule 6, Chapter 11 - Dogs, Cats, Other Pets, and Livestock

01    Dogs, cats and other pets are prohibited unless they are crated, caged or on a leash or otherwise under physical restrictive control at all times.

02    Pets are prohibited in public eating places and food stores, public buildings and on designated swimming beaches. This paragraph shall not apply to guide dogs.

03    Dogs, cats or other pets running at large and observed by an authorized person in the act of killing, injuring or molesting humans or wildlife may be disposed of, in the interest of public safety and protection of the wildlife.

04    In park areas where hunting is permitted, the use of hunting dogs is allowed, provided the area is open to hunting and the dogs’ owners or handlers accompany and have control of such dogs and are responsible for the actions of such dogs.

05    Grazing or ranging domestic animals or poultry is prohibited without prior written authorization by the District.

06    Horseback riding and the use of pack animals is permitted only on roadways and on designated areas.

07    Riding or hitching horses or other saddle or pack animals in campgrounds or picnic areas or within the immediate vicinity of trail shelters, eating or sleeping establishments or other areas of public gatherings, except where trails and facilities are provided for such use, is prohibited.

08    Riders shall slow their horses to a slow trot or walk when passing persons on foot or bicycle.

09    Pedestrians on trails shall remain quiet when horses or pack animals are passing.

Explosives and Fireworks

Rule 6, Chapter 12 - Explosives and Fireworks

01    The use or possession of explosives is prohibited, except upon written permission of the District.

02    The use or possession of fireworks is permitted only in areas or portions of areas designated for such use by appropriate District posting.

03    No permission is granted for the use or possession of such fireworks in other than designated areas and such possession and use shall conform to applicable laws of the State of Nebraska.

04    Organized fireworks displays, open to the general public without charge and sponsored by a responsible agency or organization, may be permitted by written authorization by the District and the state fire marshal.

Fires

Rule 6, Chapter 13 - Fires

01    The kindling of any fire is permitted only:

  • 01.01    In designated camping and picnic grounds when the fire is confined in a fireplace provided by the District for the use of visitors; or
  • 01.02    In grills; or
  • 01.03    In locations specified by the manager; or
  • 01.04    In stoves or lanterns using gasoline, propane, butane gas or similar fuels.

02    Fires must be kindled in such manner that no tree, shrub, grass or other combustible matter will be set on fire or caused to be set on fire.

03    When no longer needed, the fire shall be completely extinguished.

04    Leaving a fire unattended is prohibited.

05    Throwing or dropping a lighted cigarette, cigar, pipe heel, match or other burning material anywhere on District property is prohibited.

06    The kindling of fires on recreation area lands owned or controlled by the District may be prohibited by the manager by posted signs when the fire hazard makes such action necessary.

07    The manager, during such periods of time as he or she may prescribe, may prohibit smoking on any recreation area lands, including roads and trails, by the posting of appropriate signs.

08    The kindling of fires or the use of any type of cooking device is expressly prohibited on any designated swimming beach.

Fishing, Hunting, Trapping

Rule 6, Chapter 14 - Fishing, Hunting, Trapping

01    Fishing is permitted on all recreation area waters subject to general fishing state regulations and to specific local regulations.

02    Any area or portion of area may be closed to all or any form or method of fishing by posting of appropriate signs.

03    Fishing from or within 20 yards of any public boat ramp, boat dock, mooring area or swimming beach is prohibited.

04    Fishing from motor road bridges is prohibited.

05    Hunting or the use of firearms, bow and arrow or other projectile devices is prohibited on District recreation areas with the following exceptions:

  • 05.01    District recreation areas or portions thereof are open to hunting subject to general hunting regulations from the first Tuesday following Labor Day to April 1, unless prohibited or restricted by appropriate signs or specific area regulations.
  • 05.02    Hunting is prohibited within 100 yards of any public-use facility or activity area, including picnic areas, campgrounds, private cabin and concession areas, boat ramps and parking lots.
  • 05.03    District recreation areas or portions thereof open to hunting in accordance with general hunting regulations and special area regulations.
  • 05.04    Firearms used in training sessions by law enforcement personnel or firearms or other projectile devices used in exhibitions authorized by the District.
  • 05.05    Firearms or other projectile devices authorized for use by the public on designated ranges.

06    Trapping of furbearers on District owned or a controlled land is authorized only by special permit issued by the District.

07    Applications for trapping permits shall consist of a letter directed to the District requesting such a permit to trap at a specific area or areas.

  • 07.01    Applications shall be filed no later than August 31 of each year.

Intoxication and Consumption of Alcohol

Rule 6, Chapter 15 - Intoxication and Consumption of Alcohol

01    Consumption of alcoholic beverages on recreation area lands owned or controlled by the District is permitted with the following exceptions:

  • 01.01    Consumption is prohibited on all roadways, parking areas, designated swimming areas, Youth Camping Areas and the archery range.
  • 01.02    Consumption of alcohol may be prohibited on any park or recreation area or portions thereof with the use of appropriate signage.
  • 01.03    Consumption is prohibited between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
  • 01.04    Containers of alcoholic beverages whose single liquid capacity is greater than one gallon are prohibited.

02    Except as provided in Section 1 above, the possession of a bottle, can or other receptacle containing an alcoholic beverage that is open, or that has been opened, or whose seal is broken, or the contents of which has been partially removed is prohibited, except this section does not apply to:

  • 02.01    An open container stored in the trunk of a motor vehicle or, in the case of a motor vehicle without a trunk, an open container stored in some other portion of the vehicle designed for the storage of luggage and not normally occupied by or accessible to the operator or passengers, or
  • 02.02    An open container stored in the living quarters of a motor home or camper.

03    Presence in a recreation area when under the influence of alcohol, or drugs, to a degree that may endanger oneself or another person or property or may cause unreasonable interference with another person’s enjoyment of a recreation area, is prohibited.
 

NRD Lands Managed By Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

Rule 6, Chapter 16 - NRD Lands Managed by Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

01    Upon completion of a recreation area constructed by the District and managed by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, State Park Regulations, as administered by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, shall apply.

Permits, Special Occasion

Rule 6, Chapter 17 - Permits, Special Occasion

01    Sports events, pageants, re-enactments, regattas, entertainments and the like, characterized as public spectator attractions or participant activities, are prohibited unless written permission therefore has been given by the District.

  • 01.01    Such permits shall be issued only after a finding that the issuance of such permit will not be inconsistent with the purposes for which the area is established and maintained and will cause the minimum possible interference with use of the area by the general public.
  • 01.02    The permit may contain such reasonable conditions and restrictions as to duration and area occupied as are necessary for the protection of the area and public use thereof.

02    Public meetings, assemblies, gatherings, demonstrations, parades, religious services and other expressions of views are prohibited unless written permission has been given by the District in accordance with District policy.

03    The filming of still or motion pictures of lands and facilities owned or controlled by the District for commercial purposes is prohibited unless written permission therefore has been given by the District.

04    Applications for a Special Occasion Permit shall be received by the District not later ten (10) days prior to the requested special activity and shall set forth the following:

  • 04.01    the name of the applicant;
  • 04.02    the date, time, duration, nature and place of the proposed activity;
  • 04.03    an estimate of the number of persons expected to attend; and
  • 04.04    a statement of equipment and facilities to be used in connection therewith.

05    As a condition of the permit issuance, the District may require the filing of a bond with satisfactory surety payable to the District, to cover costs such as restoration, rehabilitation and cleanup of the area used and other costs resulting from the permittee’s activity. In lieu of a bond, a permittee may elect to deposit cash equal to the amount of the required bond.
 

Preservation of Public Property

Rule 6, Chapter 18 - Preservation of Public Property

01    The possession, destruction, injury, defacement, removal or disturbance in any manner of any building, sign, equipment, monument, statue, marker or other structure or of any animal or plant matter and direct or indirect products thereof, including but not limited to petrified wood, flower, cane or other fruit, egg, nest or nesting site or of any soil, rock or mineral formation, artifact, relic, historic or prehistoric feature or of any other public property of any kind, without prior permission of the manager is prohibited.

02    The gathering or possession for personal consumption or use of only such fruits and berries or mushrooms as the manager may designate is permitted.

03    All such fruits and berries and mushrooms shall be picked only by hand.

04    The gathering or collecting of such objects for the purpose of sale is prohibited.

05    The destroying, digging, removing or possession of any tree, shrub or plant is prohibited.  

  • 05.01    The collection and possession of dead wood found on the ground for use as fuel in campgrounds or picnic areas is permitted except as posted by appropriate signs.

06    Dead timber which has been cut down and stockpiled for removal from the recreation area by authority of the manager may be further cut and removed from the area by the public for personal consumption at home, with the permission of the manager.

07    The removal of dead timber for the purpose of sale is prohibited.

08    Entering, climbing upon or tampering with District or District contractors’ motor vehicles and motorized or power equipment is prohibited.
 

Ice Fishing, Hunting Blinds, Digging and Seining

Rule 6, Chapter 19 - Ice Fishing, Hunting Blinds, Digging and Seining

01    Temporary portable shelters for the purpose of ice fishing or hunting can be erected on District owned waters.

02    Temporary shelters must be removed daily.

03    Permanent type shelters are prohibited.

04    Ice fishing is prohibited after February 10.

05    The door to any fish shelter shall be constructed so that it can be opened from the outside at all times when in use and the shelters may be locked when not in use.

06    The District shall remove, burn or otherwise destroy or dispose of such structures found on the ice after February 10 each year.

07    Hole size made for ice fishing on any area under jurisdiction of the District shall not exceed ten (10) inches in diameter.

08    Daily waterfowl hunting blinds may be installed and used on District recreation areas, provided that no blinds may be installed and used on areas posted as closed to such activities.

09    Waterfowl hunters installing and using daily blinds on District recreation areas shall be responsible for removing such blinds and other personal property from the area at the close of hunting each day.

10    Nothing contained herein shall give permission to install seasonal or permanent blinds on District recreation areas.

11    Hunting blinds and other personal property remaining on a District recreation area following close of hunting shall be impounded in accordance with Chapter 4, Paragraph 01 of this rule.

12    No person shall enter upon any area or portion of any area, which is temporarily closed to general public access and which is posted with appropriate signs.

13    Digging or seining for any purpose on District owned or controlled areas are prohibited.

14    No publicly owned personal property may be removed from any area or be moved from its general location without specific permission from the manager.

15    Management personnel are specifically authorized to remove structures and facilities in accord with applicable regulations.

16    Failure by the permittee to remove his or her ice shelter by the dates specified and in the manner stipulated in these regulations shall be cause to revoke such permit.

Sanitation

Rule 6, Chapter 20 - Sanitation

01    All garbage, papers, cans, bottles, waste materials and rubbish of any kind shall be deposited in places or containers designated for the disposal thereof or removed from the area.

02    Draining or dumping refuse or wastes from any trailer, or other vehicle except in places or receptacles provided for such use, is prohibited.

03    Cleaning food, fish or fowl or washing clothing, vehicles, campers or articles of household use at campground hydrants is prohibited.

04    Polluting or contaminating in any manner any watershed, water supplies or water used for drinking purposes is prohibited.

05    Fish entrails or other inedible parts of fish must be disposed of off-site.

06    Placing fish entrails or other inedible parts of fish into fresh waters or onto public land is prohibited.

07    Depositing any biological waste in or on any comfort station or other public structure, except into fixtures provided for that purpose, is prohibited.

08    Placing any bottle, can, cloth, rag, metal, wood or stone substance in any plumbing fixtures of such structure or station is prohibited.

09    Urinating or defecating, other than at the places provided therefore, is prohibited.

10    Using District refuse containers or other refuse facilities for dumping household or commercial garbage or trash brought as such from private property is prohibited.

SCUBA Diving

Rule 6, Chapter 21 - SCUBA Diving

01    SCUBA diving is prohibited at all District recreation areas.

Skateboarding and Roller Skating

Rule 6, Chapter 22 - Skateboarding

01    The use of roller skates and skateboards is prohibited at all District Recreation Areas.

Snowmobiles

Rule 6, Chapter 23 - Snowmobiles

01    The operation of snowmobiles is prohibited at all District recreation areas.

Swimming and Wading

Rule 6, Chapter 24 - Swimming and Wading

01    Swimming and wading are permitted at the sole risk of the swimmer, unless specifically prohibited in Rule 6.

02    Swimming from vessels underway is prohibited.

03    Swimming or wading within twenty (20) yards of the spillway is prohibited.

Traffic

Rule 6, Chapter 25 - Traffic

01    It shall be unlawful to park, tow or otherwise operate any motor vehicle, trailer or cabin trailer, mini-bike, motorcycle, off-road recreation vehicle of any and all types, or other powered vehicles except a motorized device operated by a disabled person, within the confines of a recreation area which does not bear valid license plates and is not registered in accordance with applicable state laws.

02    All such vehicles not properly licensed and registered shall be in violation and may be impounded by the manager or law enforcement officer.

03    It shall be unlawful for any person not possessing a valid motor vehicle operator’s license to operate a motor vehicle of any type within the confines of a recreation area.

04    The speed limit on all park and recreation area roadways is 10 miles per hour.

05    It shall be unlawful to park, tow or otherwise operate any motor vehicle, trailer or cabin trailer, mini-bike, motorcycle, off-road recreation vehicle of any and all types, or other powered vehicles except a motorized device operated by a disabled person, on other than those areas or portions of areas, roadways, campgrounds, beaches and parking areas as may be designated by the District for such operation.

06    All traffic laws and District park regulations governing operation of motor vehicles on roadways of the recreation area system shall further apply to motor vehicle operation on those off-road portions of recreation areas, including but not limited to campgrounds and parking areas, as may be designated by the District for motor vehicle operation.

Vending

Rule 6, Chapter 26 - Vending

01    The vending, including mobile vendors, of various goods and services, products and commodities is permitted on recreation area lands with the prior written authorization of the District.

02    The vending of any such goods and services, products and commodities without written authorization of the District is prohibited.

03    No recreation area shall be used as a headquarters or residence by any person or group engaged in commercial or professional activities without prior written authorization of the District.

04    The sale or distribution of printed matter is permitted within the recreation areas provided a permit to do so is issued in advance by the District.

05    Persons engaged in the sale or distribution of printed matter shall not obstruct or impede pedestrians or vehicles, harass recreation area visitors with physical contact or persistent demands, misrepresent with purposes or affiliations of those engaged in the sale or distribution or misrepresent whether the printed matter be available without cost or donation.

Water Skiing

Rule 6, Chapter 27 - Water Skiing

01    Water skiing is prohibited at all District recreation areas.

Water Sports and Jet Skis - General

Rule 6, Chapter 28 - Water Sports - General

01    The operation and use of jet skis is prohibited.

02    Areas on which water-related recreational activities are permitted may be zoned to separate or define activities.

03    Zoning may prescribe the area in which the public may engage in such activities or may limit the hours during which the public may engage in any such activities.

04    Such zoning shall be clearly indicated by such signs, markers, buoys or other appropriate devices in widespread and common use for such purposes.

05    The number of participants engaging in any of the above-mentioned water related recreation activities on any area owned or controlled by the District may be limited by management personnel of the District when conditions warrant such limitations in the interest of public health, safety or welfare.

06    Management personnel of the District are herewith specifically authorized and empowered to declare emergencies and to require the participants in any or all of the water related activities mentioned in the foregoing on any such areas, to cease such activity and to temporarily vacate the water area, or a portion of the water area, in the event of a water accident, severe weather or similar emergency.

07    No person shall have permission to engage in any water related activity in any such area or portion thereof during such declared emergency.

08    Watercraft shall not be left unattended in or near waters owned or controlled by the District except at designated mooring, anchoring or beaching locations.

09    Docks installed adjacent to boat ramps shall be used only for the following purposes:

  • 09.01    Launching and recovery of water craft, and embarking and disembarking passengers.

10    The mooring of water craft at such docks for any other reason or for a period of time greater than that reasonable to accomplish the permitted activities is prohibited.

  • 10.01    Boating and canoeing are permitted with the limitation of a five (5) m.p.h. speed limit.
    • 10.01.a    Boats, canoes and other flotation devices are restricted from entering the principal spillway area, as designated on the attached maps 
      (Appendices A-E of Rule 6).
       

Winter Sports

Rule 6, Chapter 29 - Winter Sports

01    Skiing, sledding, tobogganing, snow shoeing, skating and similar winter sports are permitted except upon roads and parking areas when such roads and parking areas are open to motor vehicle traffic and in other places where these activities are prohibited by appropriate regulations and/or posted signs.

02    The towing of persons on skis, sleds or other sliding devices by a motor vehicle is prohibited.

Standards of Regulation

Rule 6, Chapter 30 - Standards of Regulations

01    The standards established in these regulations are in furtherance of the preservation and protections of the natural, scenic, historic, pastoral, fish and wildlife values of the recreation area.

02    Use of property will be in conformance with applicable federal, state and local laws, regulations and ordinances.

Exceptions to Regulations

Rule 6, Chapter 31 - Exceptions to Regulations

01    Nothing in the foregoing shall be construed as prohibiting the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District or their duly appointed agents or employees from the conduct of their assigned duties in the administration, maintenance and development of area owned or controlled by the district.

02    In the event of natural disaster, state or national emergency, civil disorder, accident or other situation wherein the conduct of activities otherwise permitted under these regulations may constitute a hazard to the public health, safety or welfare or inhibit rescue, recovery, post-disaster or development operations, management personnel of the district are herewith specifically empowered and directed to take such measures at their disposal to preserve the public health, safety and welfare and to expedite rescue, recovery and operations, to include the temporary suspension of any or all activities contemplated in these regulations or any area or portions of any area owned or controlled by the district and the temporary closure and/or evacuation of any such area.

Smith Creek Recreation Area Special Regulations

Rule 6, Chapter 32 - Smith Creek Recreation Area Special Regulations

01    The Smith Creek Recreation Area located in the SW1/4 of Section 28, Township 10 North, Range 1 East of the 6th P.M. in Seward County, Nebraska, as shown on the map below (Appendix A of Rule 6), is hereby designated as a public use area.

02    All public use of the Smith Creek Recreation Area is regulated by the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District General Park Regulations Rule 6, as well as the following special regulations.

03    Permitted Activities:

  • 03.01    Camping by youth organizations is permitted in the Youth Camping Area designated on the map (Appendix A of Rule 6). [Note - this area has not been designated yet.]
  • 03.02    Picnicking and hiking are permitted in the entire recreation area.
  • 03.03    Electrical outlets on picnic shelters are to be used for day used activities only, not for overnight camping.
  • 03.04    Fishing is permitted.
  • 03.05    Boating and canoeing are permitted with the limitation of a five (5) m.p.h. speed limit.
    • 03.05.a    Boats, canoes and other flotation devices are restricted from entering the principal spillway area, as designated on the map below 
      (Appendix A of Rule 6)
  • 03.06    Skiing, sledding, tobogganing, snow shoeing, ice skating and similar winter sports are permitted.
  • 03.07    Waterfowl hunting is allowed at Smith Creek in areas indicated on the map below (Appendix A of Rule 6) during the allowable hunting season as set up by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.  Non-toxic shot is required.

04    Prohibited Activities:

  • 04.01    SCUBA diving is prohibited.
  • 04.02    The use of skates and skateboards is prohibited.
  • 04.03    Water skiing is prohibited.
  • 04.04    Jet skis are prohibited.
  • 04.05    Snowmobiles are prohibited
  • 04.06    Target shooting is not permitted
Smith Creek Recreation Area Map

Pioneer Trails Recreation Area Special Regulations

Rule 6, Chapter 33 - Pioneer Trails Recreation Area Special Regulations

01    The Pioneer Trails Recreation Area located in the NW1/4 of Section 35 and the SW1/4 Section 26, Township 11 North, Range 6 West of the 6th P.M. in Hamilton County, Nebraska, as shown on the map below (Appendix B of Rule 6), is hereby designated as a public use area.

02    All public use of the Pioneer Trails Recreation Area is regulated by the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District General Park Regulations Rule 6 as well as the following special regulations.

03    Permitted Activities:

  • 03.01    Camping is permitted , after the appropriate fee is paid, in the Campgrounds designated on the map below (Appendix B of Rule 6).  Free camping by youth organizations is permitted in the Youth Camping Area designated on the map (Appendix B of Rule 6). [Note: The Youth Camping Area has not been designated yet.]
  • 03.02    Picnicking and hiking are permitted in the entire recreation area.
  • 03.03    Electrical outlets on picnic shelters are to be used for day use activities only, not for overnight camping.
  • 03.04    The kindling of fires and use of grills is permitted in the Day Use Area and Campground as per the map below (Appendix B of Rule 6).
  • 03.05    Fishing is permitted.
  • 03.06    Boating and canoeing are permitted with the limitation of a five (5) m.p.h. speed limit.
    • 03.06.a    Boats, canoes and other flotation devices are restricted from entering the principal spillway area, as designated on the map below (Appendix B of Rule 6).
  • 03.07    Skiing, sledding, tobogganing, snow shoeing, ice skating and similar winter sports are permitted.

04    Prohibited Activities:

  • 04.01    SCUBA diving is prohibited
  • 04.02    The use of roller skates and skateboards is prohibited
  • 04.03    Water skiing is prohibited
  • 04.04    Jet skis are prohibited
  • 04.05    Snowmobiles are prohibited
  • 04.06    Target shooting is prohibited.
  • 04.07    Rifle Hunting and Bow Hunting are prohibited on all areas within the boundaries of the land controlled by the District pertaining to the Pioneer Trails Recreation Area.

Pioneer Trails Recreation Area Map
 

Anderson Recreation Area Special Regulations

Rule 6, Chapter 34 - Anderson Recreation Area Special Regulations

01    The Recharge Lake and associated recreation area located in the N½ of Section 2 and Irregular Tract 2 located in the NE¼ of Section 3, Township 10 North, Range 3 West and Irregular Tracts 1 and 2 located in the SE¼ of Section 34 and Irregular Tract 12 located in the SW¼ of Section 35, Township 11 North, Range 3 West of the 6th P.M., York County, Nebraska as shown on the map below (Appendix C of Rule 6), is hereby designated as a public use area. Therefore, all public use of the Recharge Lake and associated recreation area is regulated by the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District General Park Regulations, as well as the following special regulations.

02    Permitted Activities:

  • 02.01    Camping is permitted, after the appropriate fee is paid, in the Campgrounds designated on the map below (Appendix C of Rule 6).  Free camping by youth organizations is permitted in the Youth Camping Area designated on the map below (Appendix C of Rule 6).
  • 02.02    Picnicking and hiking are permitted in the entire recreation area.
  • 02.03    Electrical outlets on picnic shelters are to be used for day use activities only, not for overnight camping.
  • 02.04    The kindling of fires and use of grills is permitted in the Day Use Area and Campground as per the map below (Appendix C of Rule 6).
  • 02.05    Fishing is permitted.
  • 02.06    Boating and canoeing are permitted with the limitation of the five (5) m.p.h. speed limit.
    • 02.06.a    Boats, canoes and other flotation devices are restricted from entering the principal spillway area, as designated on the map below (Appendix C of Rule 6).
  • 02.07    Skiing, sledding, tobogganing, snowshoeing, ice skating and similar winter sports are permitted.

03    Prohibited Activities:

  • 03.01    SCUBA diving is prohibited.
  • 03.02    The use of roller skates and skateboards is prohibited
  • 03.03    Water skiing is prohibited.
  • 03.04    Jet skis are prohibited
  • 03.05    Snowmobiles are prohibited.
  • 03.06    Target shooting is prohibited
  • 03.07    Rifle Hunting and Bow Hunting are prohibited on all areas within the boundaries of the land controlled by the District pertaining to the Anderson Recreation Area.
Anderson Recreation Area and Recharge Lake Map

Overland Trail Recreation Area Special Regulations

Rule 6, Chapter 35 - Overland Trail Recreation Area Special Regulations

01    The Overland Trail Recreation Area located in portions of the S½ of the NW¼ of Section 15 and portions of the N½ of the SW¼ of Section 15, Township 10 North, Range 2 West of the 6th P.M., York County, Nebraska as shown on the map below (Appendix D Rule 6) is hereby designated as a public use area. Therefore, all public use of the Overland Trail Recreation Area is regulated by the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District General Park Regulations, as well as the following special regulations.

02    Permitted Activities:

  • 02.01    Overland Trail Recreation Area will be open from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sundown.
  • 02.02    Picnicking and hiking are permitted in the entire recreation area.
  • 02.03    Electrical outlets on picnic shelters are to be used for day used activities only.
  • 02.04    Fishing is permitted.
  • 02.05    Boating and canoeing are permitted with the limitation of the five (5) m.p.h. speed limit.
  • 02.06    Skiing, sledding, tobogganing, snowshoeing, ice skating and similar winter sports are permitted.

03    Prohibited Activities:

  • 03.01    Overnight camping is prohibited at Overland Trail Recreation Area
  • 03.02    SCUBA diving is prohibited.
  • 03.03    The use of roller skates, in-line skates and skateboards is prohibited.
  • 03.04    Water skiing is prohibited.
  • 03.05    Jet skis are prohibited.
  • 03.06    Snowmobiles are prohibited
  • 03.07    Target shooting is prohibited.
  • 03.08    Rifle Hunting and Bow Hunting are prohibited on all areas within the boundaries of the land controlled by the District pertaining to the Overland Trail Recreation Area.
  • 03.09    Hunting is prohibited on all areas within the boundaries of the land controlled by the District pertaining to the Overland Trails Recreation Area.

Overland Trail Recreation Area Map 

Oxbow Trail Recreation Area Special Regulations

Rule 6, Chapter 36 - Oxbow Trail Recreation Area Special Regulations

01    The Oxbow Trails Reservoir and associated recreation area located in the Parcel of #1, 2, 3 of S½ of Section 23 and Parcel 4 located in the NE¼ of Section 23, Township 13 North, Range 2 East of the 6th P.M., Butler County, Nebraska as shown on the map below (Appendix E of Rule 6), is hereby designated as a public use area. Therefore, all public use of the Oxbow Trails Reservoir and associated recreation area is regulated by the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District General Park Regulations, as well as the following special regulations.    

02    Permitted Activities:

  • 02.01    Camping by youth organizations is permitted in the Youth Camping Area designated on the map (Appendix E of Rule 6). [Note: The Youth Camping Area has not been designated yet.]
  • 02.02    Picnicking and hiking is permitted in the entire recreation area.
  • 02.03    Electrical outlets on picnic shelters are to be used for day use activities only, not for overnight camping.
  • 02.04    Fishing is permitted.
  • 02.05    Boating and canoeing is permitted with the limitation of the five (5) m.p.h. speed limit.
  • 02.06    Skiing, sledding, tobogganing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice skating and similar winter sports are permitted.
  • 02.07    Upland game hunting is permitted in designated areas at Oxbow Trail Recreation Area (see map below) during the allowable hunting season as set up by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.  Nontoxic shot is required.
  • 02.08    Water fowl hunting and is allowed at Oxbow Trail Recreation Area (see map below) during the allowable hunting season as set up by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.  Nontoxic shot is required.  

03    Prohibited Activities:

  • 03.01    SCUBA diving is prohibited.
  • 03.02    Water skiing is prohibited.
  • 03.03    Jet skis are prohibited.
  • 03.04    The use of roller skates and skateboards is prohibited.
  • 03.05    Target shooting is prohibited.
  • 03.06    Rifle Hunting and Bow Hunting are prohibited on all areas within the boundaries of the land controlled by the District pertaining to the Oxbow Trail Recreation Area.
Oxbow Trail Recreation Area Map

Teal View Wetland Education Area Special Regulations

Rule 6, Chapter 37 - Teal View Wetland Education Area Special Regulations

01    The Teal View Wetland Education Area is located in the SW ¼ of Section 34, Township 12 North, Range 5 West of the 6th P.M., Hamilton County, Nebraska, approximately 5 miles north of Hampton, Nebraska, as shown on the map below (Appendix F of Rule 6), is hereby designated as a public use area. Therefore, all public use of the Teal View Wetland Education Area is regulated by the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District General Park Regulations, as well as the following special regulations.    

02    Permitted Activities:

  • 02.01    Teal View Wetland Education Area is open from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sundown.  
  • 02.02    Hiking is permitted within the entire Teal View Wetland Education Area, unless cattle are present and the area is being grazed.
  • 02.03    Upland game hunting is permitted within the entire Teal View Wetland Education Area during the allowable hunting season as set up by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.  Nontoxic shot is required.
  • 02.04    Waterfowl hunting and is permitted within the entire Teal View Wetland Education Area during the allowable hunting season as set up by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.  Nontoxic shot is required.

03    Hiking and Hunting are not allowed when cattle are present and the area is being grazed

04    Prohibited Activities:

  • 04.01    Open fires of any kind are prohibited.
  • 04.02    Target shooting is prohibited.
  • 04.03    Rifle Hunting and Bow Hunting are prohibited on all areas within the boundaries of the land controlled by the District pertaining to the Teal View Wetland Education Area.
  • 04.04    Overnight camping is prohibited
Teal View Wetland Education Area Map