You may think you know everything there is to know about the best destinations in Nebraska, but there are always new hidden gems to explore. Toadstool Geologic Park in western Nebraska is one of those places. There are plenty of native Nebraskans who still have no idea it exists! Take a little trip with us to look at the incredible otherworldly ancient rock formations that make up this fascinating attraction.
As you get closer to the park, you might feel like you’re driving into the foothills of a mountain range.
Getty Images/BrianBaer - iStock / Getty Images Plus
Beginning some 33 million years ago, sandstone, limestone, clay, and volcanic ash were deposited here. The different types of rock eroded at different rates, resulting in remarkable formations that resemble something you would see on the surface of an alien planet.
Google Local/Matt Govig
Some of the formations look like toadstools, with large tops perched on narrow bases; that’s where the park got its unusual name.
Google Images/PerSueTheDream
The rocks continue to morph as time passes. The park that we see today is vastly different from the formations that were present just a century or two ago, and it will look completely different when future generations visit.
Getty Images/Danita Delimont
You can take a hike through this incredible landscape to see it up close. The formations are fragile, though, so remember to stick to the path. While you may see amazing sights like fossils along the way, please leave everything as you found it; it’s illegal to remove any of the rocks here.
Google Local/Larry Stratton
Forget the rest of the world for a while and imagine you’re a brave explorer discovering new lands…or simply take in the amazing sights and remember how lucky we are to have access to this unique place.
Getty Images/Joseph Sohm-Visions of America - Photodisc
If you’d like to visit, admission is just $3 per car. Bring your own water because there are no faucets out here in this otherworldly wonderland.
Getty Images/Joseph Sohm-Visions of America - Photodisc
You can even camp here overnight - not amid the ancient rocks, but in a nearby designated camping area. The fee for camping is just $5 per car. There are no electric or water hookups, but there is a vault toilet.
Google Local/Cat n Dog Named Thirsty
Also be sure to watch out for snakes out here and bring plenty of sunscreen; there are no trees to shade you from the hot sun. Before you crawl into your tent for the night, enjoy one of the legendary western Nebraska sunsets.
Getty Images/Diana Robinson Photography - Moment
Primitive though it may be, camping here offers you the singularly awesome experience of seeing the sun rise over this unbelievably beautiful landscape.
Getty Images/Diana Robinson Photography - Moment
Watch the video below for a first-person view of the gorgeous sights at Toadstool Geologic Park.
Getty Images/BrianBaer - iStock / Getty Images Plus
Google Local/Matt Govig
Google Images/PerSueTheDream
Getty Images/Danita Delimont
Google Local/Larry Stratton
Getty Images/Joseph Sohm-Visions of America - Photodisc
Google Local/Cat n Dog Named Thirsty
Getty Images/Diana Robinson Photography - Moment
To get there from Crawford: Crawford to the intersection of Highway 20 and Highway 2 North on Highway 2 to Toadstool Road – 4.2 miles Toadstool Road to FS Road #902 – 11.4 miles FS Road #902 – 1.4 miles to Toadstool Campground
If you’re looking for more adventures in nature, be sure to check out our outdoor lovers’ bucket list here.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.
Address: Toadstool Geological Park and Campground, Harrison, NE 69346, USA
