Platte River in Nebraska

by  guest-paddler

A self-supported trip created by guest-paddler

Trip Overview

Anyone who floats the Platte knows it can be a real drag sometimes. Friday was great; plenty of water to float my rec kayak. I put in at Bader Park south of Chapman went to the south side where I went through lots of cool narrow channels saw muskrat and beaver up close and personal.

It was 90 min to Toolie Park. If you want to be sure to get to Toolie STAY SOUTH. The channel to Toolie is only about 20 ft wide and easy to miss which wouldn't be a big deal unless you plan to take out there. I went to Riverside that took another 90 min real nice the whole way but I think the west portion is better not so spread out, deeper and more protected from wind.

Only 2 deer this time, 2 weeks ago on the same stretch saw at least 12. Lots of waterfowl and raptors. very peaceful. You can take out at Stranberg Park just to the northeast of the Highway 14 bridge. I take out right under the bridge. on the north side easy access and good place to leave your car.

Accommodations:

Bader has camping, showers and restrooms, Very nice little park, Stranberg is basically a place to leave your car. Toolie has primitive rest room and place to park. Toolie also has nice trails out onto island. Good place to stretch your legs.

Fees:

Bader has a $4 day pass

Directions:

Bader Park is on a black top road, head south just on the East side of Chapman south off highway 30. Leave your pick up vehicle at Stranberg park. Highway 14 south of Central City . The park is on the NW corner of the bridge. You get to Toolie from Bader by continuing on the blacktop over the bridge back to the east turn left on N road.

Trip Details

  • Skill Level: Beginner
  • Water Type: River/Creek (Up to Class II)

Trip Location