Peaceful and secluded, Cottonwood Lake State Recreation Area includes a 60-acre Sandhills lake surrounded by 180 acres of rolling hills. The area is partially forested and offers power boating, fishing, bird watching and picnicking. Its remote location makes it an excellent place to see the stars and get away from it all.

Perhaps the biggest draw of Smith Falls State Park is, of course, the famous falls. At 70 feet, these falls are the highest waterfall in Nebraska. From the north side of the park, cross the footbridge that spans the Niobrara River and then travel the boardwalk to the falls. Remember: Hiking to the falls is limited to established trails to prevent erosion and protect rare plants.