YORK, Nebraska - The Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District (District) Board of Directors approved amendments to Rule 6 - NRD Park Regulations during the March 19, 2026 board meeting, which took effect July 28, 2026. Changes were made in order to address a variety of issues, many of which were related to safety concerns and ensuring equitable use of limited facilities among all recreational users. An increase in RV camping fees from $15 per night to $25 per night at Anderson/Recharge Lake and Pioneer Trails recreation areas was approved to help offset rising operating costs.  Rule 6 amendments include:

• RV camping fee increased to $25 per night at Anderson/Recharge Lake and Pioneer Trails.
• Camping permitted for a maximum of 14 days during any 30-day period within a single recreation area.
• No tent camping within 100 yards of a picnic shelter.
• Overland Trail and Teal View are open from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sundown.  No camping at either of these locations.
• Designation of a Youth Camping Area at Anderson/Recharge Lake.  Youth organizations may camp for free but must notify the District to register at least three days in advance.
• Hunting regulations changed for 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.
• Visitors committing a crime on recreation area property owned by the District will be banned from District recreation areas for one (1) year.

The proposed amendments were available for public inspection and comment, and a public hearing was held February 19, 2026. The Order to Amend Rule 6 - NRD Park Regulations was published in the York News-Times for three consecutive weeks starting May 12, 2026. The Order and a revised version of Rule 6 are also available here: Rule 6 - NRD Park Regulations.

About Upper Big Blue NRD Recreation Areas
The District is responsible for natural resource management programs and services, including groundwater regulation, soil and water conservation, flood prevention and control, forestry, wildlife habitat, and parks and recreation. In regard to the later, the District manages six recreation areas for all to enjoy:

• Bruce L. Anderson (Recharge Lake), York
• Overland Trail, York
• Oxbow Trail, Ulysses
• Pioneer Trails, Aurora
• Smith Creek, Utica
• Teal View Wetland Education Area, Hampton

These areas are open year-round and provide a place for everyone who wants to view wildlife, go fishing, kayak, take a nature walk, picnic, or participate in other outdoor activities.  Each site has different levels of development and available amenities, offering unique settings for visitors to connect with nature and immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

In addition to day-use activities, campgrounds are a popular seasonal attraction, which are typically open from mid-April through late October, depending on the weather. Camping is permitted at District recreation areas as posted, with each location offering a different experience.  From tent camping at Smith Creek and Oxbow Trail to RV camping with electrical hookups at Anderson/Recharge and Pioneer Trails, visitors have options for how they would like to spend a night under the stars.

Beyond Recreation
Many of Nebraska's Natural Resources Districts provide outdoor recreation facilities, but have a much broader responsibility to manage, develop, and protect soil, water, forest, rangeland, and wildlife resources.  Several recreation areas are multi-functional projects designed not only for recreation, but also for soil erosion and sediment control, flood damage reduction, groundwater recharge, water quality improvement, and wildlife habitat enhancement and restoration.  Research on water quality and quantity is also conducted on these properties, which provides beneficial information for management decisions.

For more information about recreation areas, including the recent rule changes, visit www.upperbigblue.org, call (402) 362-6601, or email info@upperbigblue.org.