| NEBRASKA |
Producer: Hawk Buckman
As we continue our Trail’s West 48-hour road trip leaving Bayard, NE, we travel east on Highway 92, following the old Oregon-California trails toward Bridgeport, NE, where another small adventure awaits. Our first stop is the Bridgeport State Recreation Area, where we find 119 acres of land and 78 acres of water in several sandpit lakes formed from sand and river rock mining. Then we’re on to 385 Meat Market, where we meet with Ryan Nelson and visit historic Court and Jail Rocks.
The area is a popular destination with people as far away as Scottsbluff, Minatare, and Alliance for outdoor recreation, from fishing to water-skiing and tubing.
Nebraska licensed vehicle is 30 dollars for an annual pass and 60 dollars for non-nebraska licensed vehicles. Fireworks and firearms are strictly prohibited on the premises, and it is mandatory to keep pets leashed at all times to avoid potential penalties from Park Rangers.
Throughout the park, there are no paved areas. Instead, visitors can find dirt roads alongside the water and designated spots for small fire pits and grills. In addition, numerous camping areas and designated pull-off spots within the park are equipped with selfie stations, allowing visitors to seize the opportunity to create lasting memories.
The lake’s surface is adorned yearly with diverse wildlife, attracting local residents and vacationers passing through western Nebraska. This captivating sight entices visitors and wildlife photographers to frequent the area repeatedly.
| 385 Meat Market
Close to the small town of Bridgeport is the historic Court and Jail Rocks, where local residents embellish on multiple legends that it was used as an Indian burial ground, that an Indian battle was fought there against US Calvery and even the story of a Romeo and Juliet tragedy.
The facts are that both Court and Jail Rock served as landmarks and reference points for travelers on the Oregon Trail.
They were used as visual guides to navigate the region’s vast and sometimes challenging terrain. Pioneers and emigrants often referred to these formations as they went westward in their diaries and journals.
Nestled near Court and Jail Rocks is the tranquil town of Bridgeport, NE. Here, we discovered 385 Meat Market, a business owned and run by Ryan Nelson for several years.
The market caters to the local population by offering a wide range of fresh meat cuts, specialty sodas, ample space for customers, and an assortment of distinctive kitchenware and home furnishings.
Additionally, you’ll find an extensive collection of tourist souvenirs you won’t want to miss exploring before embarking on your next destination in western Nebraska.
Continuing our journey from Bridgeport, we embark on the next leg of our adventure to Alliance, Nebraska.
Here, we encounter the intriguing and unique Carhenge, engage in thought-provoking encounters with the macabre yet controversial Dead Unicorn Society, and explore one of the most charming clothing stores in western Nebraska at Highway 2.
Come on the captivating Trails West Magazine 48-Hour Road Trip, where each moment promises excitement and discovery.
| MORE INFORMATION
The City of Bridgeport, Nebraska
Nebraska Game and Parks
