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Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park and Wildlife Safari

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Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park and Wildlife Safari - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Did you just match to UNMC or Creighton?

Your Guide the Wildlife Safari Park near Omaha

By: Ryan Renner, Realtor

I have helped many families moving to Omaha.  Contact me  if you have any questions about the Omaha area or need help buying a home.

If you love the idea of experiencing adventure from the comfort of your own car, you need to check out the Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park and Wildlife Safari!

Located half an hour southwest of Omaha, in Ashland, NE , the Simmons Wildlife Safari Park is a local treasure that lets you get up close and personal with a variety of animals.

The park spans four miles of drive-through safari terrain, features two miles of hiking trails with multiple overlooks, and gives you the chance to see North American wildlife such as cranes, wolves, elk, and even bears!

Your Guide to the Wildlife Safari Park Near Omaha

A brief overview of the simmons conservation park and wildlife safari, what’s the big deal about the safari park.

The Simmons Wildlife Safari Park is affiliated with Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo . Similar to its downtown Omaha ally, the Wildlife Safari Park is renowned nationwide. In fact, it recently came in first place for the 2022 USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice for Best Safari Park !

Needless to say, Wildlife Safari Park is an entertaining adventure. Not only that, but it also supports animal conservation. The park is a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums ( AZA ). The AZA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to accrediting zoos and aquariums that promote nature conservation, animal education, and patron recreation.

What to Bring to the Park

Feel free to bring your own food and water to the Wildlife Safari Park. You may decide to indulge in ice cream and a bagged snack at the visitor’s center or at a park vending machine. Still, it won’t hurt to have something on hand to chew or sip on.

Even though you’ll spend most of the time inside of your vehicle, you should still bring sunscreen and bug spray, especially if you decide to go for a long hike.

Finally, bring a smartphone or camera for pictures, and keep your hands on the map they give you when you enter the park!

Getting to the Wildlife Safari Park

Directions to the wildlife safari park.

The Wildlife Safari Park is located directly off of Interstate 80 West near the Platte River. The park’s official street address is 16406 292nd St, Ashland, NE 68003 .

Your GPS will tell you to take I-80 W to Exit 426. This exit leads you to Nebraska Highway 66, which you will travel on southbound for about half a mile. A left turn onto northbound 292nd Street puts you within eyesight of the Wildlife Safari Park’s main office.

Other Nearby Attractions

As this article will demonstrate, the Simmons Wildlife Safari Park offers more than enough entertainment for a day out with the family. However, if you’re visiting the Ashland or the greater Omaha area and would like to see more attractions, there are things to see! 

A couple Ashland area favorites include the Strategic Air Command and Aerospace Museum (aka the SAC Museum ) or the Eugene T. Mahoney State Park . For more ideas of fun stuff to do with the family, check out my article “ Things to Do in Omaha with Kids .”

Hours for the Wildlife Safari Park

The Wildlife Safari Park is not open year-round. It can be enjoyed between the months of late March/early April and October every year. The park’s current hours are 9am-5pm. Check out the sections below to learn the schedule for specific events and experiences.

Pricing and Membership

Individual ticket pricing for the park.

If you aren’t interested in purchasing an annual membership and just want tickets for a single day at the Wildlife Safari Park, the main rates are listed below:

• $12.00 for Adults (ages 12 and up)
• $10.00 for Children (ages 3-11)
• $11.00 for Seniors (ages 65 and up)
• Free Admission for Children below 2 years of age

Apart from the baseline prices, the Omaha area Wildlife Safari Park also offers discounts for military servicemembers and their families:

• $11.00 Military Adult (12 and over)
• $9.00 Military Child (3-11)
• $10.00 Military Senior (65 and over)

Group Admission Rates for the Simmons Wildlife Safari Park

If your child has a class, scouting troop, or daycare that is excited to explore this Omaha area safari adventure, the Simmons Park offers special pricing for schools and other large groups.

The school rate for field trips is available when the school or other educational facility is willing to cover its students’ price of admission. The cost for individual students, whether in pre-kindergarten, college, or anywhere in between, is $4 per person. On top of that, school chaperones get to enter for free!

Field trips can be upgraded with bus tours and student workshops. More information on those specific programs can be found here .

The one caveat with the park’s school pricing is that a School Group Registration form needs to be submitted to the Simmons Wildlife Safari Park well before the day of the visit. The online registration form can be found at this link .

If you’re not with a school but still want to take advantage of a great group rate, the Wildlife Safari Park offers discounts for registered groups of at least 30 people. If you make a reservation by phone (402-738-6916) or email ( [email protected] ) at least two weeks before your visit, each group member can receive admission at the following rates:

• $8.00 Adults (12 and above) 
• $6.00 Children (3-11) 
• $7.00 Seniors (65 and above)

You can also submit an online reservation request to the park’s Marketing Department at this webpage .

Wildlife Safari Membership Pricing

Similar to Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo, the Wildlife Safari Park offers annual membership rates for families. A single household membership provides admission for two adults and up to six children or grandchildren (age 20 and below).

You can currently purchase these yearlong memberships for $65. The Wildlife Safari Park does not currently offer the option of buying standalone memberships online. So, you’ll have to call their Guest Services Department (402-944-WILD) or speak with the main office while at the park.

If you and your family are interested in exploring both Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and the Wildlife Safari Park, you can purchase a Safari Park membership as an add-on to a zoo membership pass by contacting the zoo’s Guest Services Department (402-733-8401).

Exploring the Wildlife Safari Park

With 440 acres of land and four miles of drive-through road, the Omaha area Wildlife Safari Park offers a lot to see and do! The property has different habitats, such as water features, wooded areas, and open grassland. This handy official map summarizes the park and offers the major highlights. Check out the details below for more in-depth information:

Prairie Dog Town

The Simmons Wildlife Safari Park aims to educate and entertain even before you’ve started the safari! Be sure to check out the Prairie Dog Town habitat just outside of the visitor’s center.

You can view these classic grassland critters burrowing and calling to each other inside their underground colony. So cool!

Elk Meadows

After leaving the visitor’s center and peeking at the prairie dogs, you can follow the drive-through trail through the park. The starting exhibit is the Elk Meadows .

These American elk are an impressive species that begin growing their antlers in the spring. These antlers can grow up to five feet across and the same distance from front to back. In addition, these antlers, which are shed every year, are covered in a fuzzy layer called “velvet.” Wow!

There are three designated viewing spots where you can pull over to snap a picture or admire the animals. If you don’t get a print-worthy picture, don’t worry! You can try again when you come back through. 

The Elk Meadows exhibit stretches across both the coming and going sides of the drive-through trail. So, it’s both the first and last exhibit at the park.

The trail leads you next to Deer Woods . There, white-tailed deer enjoy a wooded ravine and nearly 10 acres of grassland all to themselves.

While these small deer have exceptional camouflage, they can be spotted by eagle-eyed visitors, especially when the deer move to the bottom of their ravine for some shade against the heat of summer.

Pelican Wetlands

You’ll then pass through Deer Woods and cross over Pawnee Creek to find Pelican Wetlands . This exhibit houses waterfowl like the American white pelican, the blue- and green-winged teals, herons, ducks, and the American coot (better known as the mud hen).

These birds are far from alone in the Pelican Wetlands. Reptiles and amphibians such as turtles and frogs are also happy to call the exhibit home. You can spot these various critters from a designated viewing spot located near Pelican Point.

Wildlife Education Center

The next section of the safari park offers a break in the action. The Wildlife Education Center has plenty of parking for you and your family. There, you can take a breather with some amenities, including a gift shop, restrooms, and even a vending machine.

Once you’ve caught your breath, you can walk through the Education Center or check out the nearby owl aviary. If you want to explore on foot, you can embark on the Pawnee Creek Trailhead. Check out the “Hiking” sections below to find out more!

Finally, after you’ve satisfied your curiosity with everything that the Wildlife Education Center offers, you can hop back in your car and continue the safari!

Crane Meadow

Next up is Crane Meadow . This 12-acre exhibit features sandhill cranes, ducks, geese, and even trumpeter swans. These birds make their marshy home in an area that is dedicated to replicating western Nebraska’s sandhills. 

All of these lovely birds can be viewed from the Crane Meadow Viewing Tower, which puts you nearly three stories up above the water to give you a true bird’s-eye view!

Bison Plains

As you continue down the trail, you’ll come upon the 40-acre Bison Plans exhibit . Here a herd of massive American bison roam the land. Unrelated to the true buffalo, American bison are a truly unique species. The bison located at the Wildlife Safari Park stand up to six-and-a-half feet tall at the shoulder and can move their one-ton bodyweight up to 40 miles per hour!

Although they may sound intimidating, the bison are friendly when treated with kindness. They’re often quite comfortable walking right up to your vehicle! You may even catch the herd cutting across the road in front of your car! It’s an amazing sight.

The beginning of the Bison Plains section offers a lookout point called Bison Overlook. At this wheelchair-accessible platform, you can park your vehicle and admire a true-to-life bronze sculpture of a mother bison with a calf.

Meanwhile, kids can play and find learning opportunities in the new nature playground area. There is also a 600-square-foot viewing deck with an overlook of the majestic herd’s habitat. The habitat itself is split evenly between flat, open grasslands and a more wooded area for the bison to enjoy.

Hiking to Wolf Canyon

Most of the Simmons Wildlife Park is a drive-through safari, but there’s plenty of fun to be had if you want to stretch your legs! The Wildlife Safari Park offers two miles of hiking trails, with destinations like Wolf Canyon and Frog Lake .

Located about a quarter-mile hike away from the road, Wolf Canyon gives you an up-close look at wolves, bears, and other exciting animals.

Hikers can look down at a pair of black bears named Cinnabuns and Licorice, whose cinnamon and black coats, respectively, match their adorable names. Like any black bear, these two are strong climbers, fast on their feet, and hungry for everything from fish to honey to nuts!

Of course, the area wouldn’t be Wolf Canyon without canines, so a pack of gray wolves prowls behind a fenced-in area. These fearsome hunters receive regular training and twice-daily feeding. If they’re extra well-behaved, these wolves might also earn a trout or hard-boiled egg! (Their favorite treats.)

Wolf Canyon offers a children’s area called the Hands-On Corral . Here, families can enjoy a petting zoo with some farm animals, have lunch at a picnic table, or admire a classic 1956 John Deere Tractor. If you come in the late summer or early fall, you might even find a shed antler from one of the mighty elks!

Hiking to the Eagle Aviary

If you continue trekking on the hiking path, you’ll come across the walk-in Eagle Aviary , which boasts both the iconic bald eagle and the whooping crane.

The bald eagle, which is a type of raptor, has been featured on the Great Seal of the United States since 1782. Inside the aviary, the eagle and its fellow animals enjoy a half-acre natural pond setting.

Other Hiking Sights

As for the trail itself , birdwatchers, photographers, and recreational hikers can all enjoy the sights along the way, including a gorgeous view of the Platte River. Keep your eyes open for quarries with fossilized rocks, too!

Posted trail maps let guests know the difficulty level for the various sections of trail. So, you don’t have to worry about biting off more than you can chew. There are even trails that are moderate enough to take your small kids along!

Most of the trails at the Wildlife Safari Park start at the Hands-On Corral. Beginning hikers should use the Wolf Canyon Foot Trail. Anyone looking for more of a challenge should try the Frog Lake Trail.

Special Events and Activities

As if these varied exhibits weren’t exciting enough, the Simmons Wildlife Safari Park will host special events and exclusive experiences for guests.

Between April and October, you can make a 45-minute picnic reservation for between 40-240 people of all ages in either the late morning or early to mid-afternoon. This reservation costs $25 for each person who is at least three years old, while prices for kids two years of age and younger are $15.

On top of an admission to the park, each picnic guest also receives a catered meal (hamburger or hot dog, picnic-style side dish, chips, condiments, mini cones, and a summertime drink), with the option to upgrade to pulled pork, chicken, and/or soda pop for a few dollars more.

Most excitingly, for a flat fee of $100 per half hour, an Animal Ambassador will bring in an animal for an up-close encounter with the picnic group!

Cheetah and Tiger Backstage Safari Experiences

Viewing such a great variety of animals is awesome enough, but the Omaha area Wildlife Safari Park also offers behind-the-scenes experiences . These Backstage Experiences combine education, walking, and animal encounters for any guest at least 8 years old.

On alternating Saturday mornings between 10:30-11:30 (be sure to be at least 15 minutes early!), guests can pay $65 per person ($50 for members) to see both the park and a big cat exhibit. You and your guests can choose between the Cheetah Conservation Breeding Facility or the Tiger Conservation Breeding Facility.

Each of these facilities showcase the park’s focus on animal care and nature conservation. The Cheetah Facility houses all but two of the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo’s cheetah population–20 cats in all! Here, you can learn about the zoo’s participation in the plan to prevent the extinction of cheetahs. Guests can hear about the similar goals at the Tiger Facility, which can hold up to six adult tigers at a time.

Guided Bus Tours

Large groups may wish to explore the Simmons Wildlife Safari Park altogether at the same pace and in the same vehicle. Fortunately, the park offers both Step-on and Premium Safari Bus Tours . For either $125 per bus (Step-on) or $200 per bus (Premium), visitors can enjoy either a one- or two-hour personalized bus tour throughout the Wildlife Safari Park.

While both bus tours offer the chance to snap some solid animal pictures, only the Premium tour gives you the chance to hike with a guide onto the Pawnee Trail. This way, you won’t miss out on the black bears, gray wolves, or other critters located off of the hiking trail.

Whichever bus you choose, both tour options are offered at 10am and 1pm on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays.

Animal Experiences

Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, the Simmons Wildlife Safari Park conducts daily 2pm Animal Experiences near the bear habitat. There, an Animal Ambassador will speak one-on-one with guests about animal care. And, they’ll let you meet the animal of course! 

Other animal feeding times at the park may vary. However, aiming for either 1:30pm or 3:00 pm should give you the best odds of catching the Animal Ambassadors ‌feeding the impressive animals.

Day Camps and Educational Programs

The Omaha area Wildlife Safari Park hosts a variety of changing classes, camps, and other opportunities. Currently, the park has bird and stargazing photography classes scheduled for July and August.

One Saturday each month from 10:30-11:30am, 3- and 4-year-olds can participate in the Early Learning Kids Klub (E.L.K. Klub). For $15 per child ($13 for members), each participant (along with an adult chaperone) gets a hands-on Nebraska wildlife education!

The scheduled dates for the E.L.K. Klub are:

• September 3rd
• October 1st

From time to time, pop-up classes will take place at the Wildlife Education Center. These $2, all-ages classes are advertised the day of on bulletin boards ‌throughout the park. So, keep an eye out! They host fun crafts and outdoorsy workshops that are a total blast if you can catch them. 

If participating in the park’s “Campouts” (see below), you’ll get even more fun activities from their impressive instructors. You can expect activities like walking in a creek, exploring at night, and watching animal footage from a trail camera. Call the park’s main office at 402-944-WILD (9453) to learn more.

The safari park fun doesn’t have to stop just because the lights are out!

Families, car campers, small groups, school groups, church groups, scout troops, and other large groups can sign up to camp out at the Simmons Wildlife Safari Park! The park offers three location options for campers.

The main campsite houses five tents of various sizes, plus a campfire pit for roasting s’mores or hot dogs. The Wildlife Education Center doubles as overnight lodging if any guest desires. This facility can also screen movies and even has space for a campfire. Lastly, the Car Camping program lets your family sleep in their cars or tent in the parking lot.

Whichever camping location you pick, the $45-per-person cost covers the overnight stay, next-day admission into the safari park, a guided hike in the evening, a campfire s’mores session, and opportunities to learn about animals and nature conservation.

The Wildlife Safari Park is another great way to experience the wonders of nature right here in the Omaha area! 

I hope this article has piqued your interest in the adventurous opportunities ‌offered by the Wildlife Safari Park. The next time that you’re visiting Omaha or Lincoln, your family can pop over to Ashland to experience gorgeous animal sights, fun hiking, and an unforgettable experience! I’ll see you there!

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Take a Zoofari at the Ashland Wildlife Safari Omaha

Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park and Wildlife Safari near Omaha

A lot of times when I talk to people from Nebraska and ask them “Why don’t you travel right here, in our own backyard more?” I get responses like

• There is nothing to do here
• There are WAY better things in other states (or countries)

While the entire reason for this blog is to dismiss point number one (Here are just 26 EXPERIENCES in Nebraska alone.  Or, here’s our Ultimate Bucketlist Of Things To Do in Nebraska ), I do get what they are saying with the second argument.

For example, several years ago, we went on an amazing Safari in South Africa.  We rode in a Land Rover on the search for The Big 5 and that is a trip I will NEVER forget.

BUT, the reality is, a trip to South Africa just isn’t in the cards for a lot of people for a multitude of reasons.  And I get and understand that.

Which is EXACTLY why I push Nebraskans to look right here, in our own state, for fun adventures that might give a taste of other trips (and who knows, maybe local travel will inspire you enough to travel further?)

Enter: The Lee. G. Simmons Conservation and Wildlife Safari Park in Ashland Nebraska!

Ok Ok….no it is not the same as a full-on African Safari.  I’ll give you that.  But hey, let’s look at the glass as half full and celebrate that the NEBRASKA safari park was just voted as the number one safari park in the US!!! (Woohoo! #NETourism For the Win!!!)

So, today I am giving you an “EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW” type of post about the Ashland NE Wildlife Safari, including insider tips, what to know before you go, what to expect and more.

Know Before You Go

A lot of people call it the Omaha Zoo Safari, or even the Omaha Wildlife Safari.  But it is actually not in Omaha at all, but instead almost smack dab in the middle of Omaha and Lincoln.  The Ashland Wildlife Safari is well, you guessed it, in ASHLAND Nebraska!

In fact, it is the same exit (426 off of 1-80) as Mahoney State Park, just a bit down the road in the opposite direction.

Time Needed

As life with little ones goes, we were limited to a morning outing due to nap schedules.  We easily were able to see the whole park as well as have a wonderful picnic lunch.

However, we also could have spent more time at some of the stops, driven slower and hung out longer.  I would allow for at LEAST a minimum of 3 hours for your outing, but you could easily spend the better part of the day here as well.

Adults: $7.50

Children: $5.50 (ages 3-11).  Free under 2

Seniors(65+): $6.50

Military Discounts:

Adult: $6.50 Adult (12 and over) Child: $4.50 Child (3-11) Senior: $5.50 Military Senior

Membership:

You can purchase an annual membership (good from one year of date of purchase) for $55 and includes:

• Up to two adults (technically from same household, but I was let in on my mom’s pass) and
• Up to six dependent children (up to age 20!) OR up to six grandchildren (again, up to age 20)

Omaha Zoo Pass Holders: While this is not an actual Omaha Zoo Safari, if you have a Henry Doorly Zoo Membership, you can do an add on with the Ashland Wildlife Safari membership for $50 in addition to your zoo pass.

Opening Hours and Months

Since it is an outdoor driving safari, the conservation park is only open from spring to fall (April-October).  Gates open at 9am-5pm every day.

This is a self-guided driving tour that basically goes in a loop around the conservation park.

The road is a gravel road that gets a bit bumpy in spots.  You don’t need a safari jeep though to get around, although I also wouldn’t come in your sports car!  I also wouldn’t wash your car just before heading out on your safari, as it will surely get plenty of dust and dirt on it….just like a real safari!

Driving Tips

If you have little ones (aka in car seats), read below for further information about this.

Pretend like you are on a real life, safari!  That means you’ll be driving around a barrier-free location where animals get to roam freely (in their own designated areas).  In fact, they can come RIGHT up to your car, and they often do!! (just remember, no petting or feeding the animals!)

• The Speed Limit is 7 MPH.  Yup, THAT slow! But this way, you take your time and really get to see the animals!
• The animals ALWAYS have the right of way.  In fact, on our way out, we ended up getting stuck in a Pelican Traffic Jam for a good 10-15 minutes as two preening pelicans stubbornly decided to just plop down in the middle of the road right in front of us! How rude!
• The only time you are allowed out of your vehicle is in designated areas (they are well marked and obvious of where you can get out)
• No motorcycles or bikes

Things To Do and See at the Safari Park

This drive through Safari Park not only lets you get RIGHT up close and personal with some really cool animals, but let’s you play safari guide for a day!

On your drive you’ll go through

An Elk Meadow

The elk are really cool to see, especially the males with their GIGANTIC horns!!! If your kids are like my two- year old son, just go with the flow when they get excited to see “REINDEER!!!”

The Deer Woods

We were afraid we wouldn’t see any deer, as the signs said they like to stay in the shade during the heat of the day, but luckily, there were several hanging out in the ravine just on the side of the road!

Pelican Wetlands

I’ve never been SO close to these huge birds! You can get out of your car here and walk up to the pond.  Although, my nephews LOVED looking at all the frogs probably more than the pelicans!

Make a Pit Stop

Next you’ll come to a large parking lot, where you’ll absolutely want to get out here and check out everything by foot.  There is a food stand (opens at 10am) with the basic menu of things like hot dogs, burgers, ice cream and other treats .   You can also hit up the restroom here or use any of the many picnic benches with your own bite to eat.

Stretch your legs and walk around to all the exhibits here

1) Eagle Aviary

2) petting zoo area.

Brush and pet the friendly, playful goats and chase the roosters around.  This is a great stop for the kids!

3) Crane Meadow

Climb a (small) tower that overlooks a marshy swamp, home to tons of ducks and ducklings, geese, swans and the famous Sandhill Cranes!  If you can’t make the annual Sandhill Crane Migration in Kearney (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!! You can read all about that on our Ultimate Guide To Seeing The Nebraska Sandhill Cranes here) this is a great opportunity to see the beautiful birds so close!

Walk along an easy trail that turns into a boardwalk (stroller and handicap accessible) lined with some owls that lead you straight to the bears!

5) Wolf Canyon

After seeing the beautiful bears, keep on the trail and head up a hill to see the wolves.  Unfortunately, we could only spot one, laying low in the tall brush, but that is also the beauty of conservation areas such as these, where the animals have so much more freedom and space than a typical, caged up zoo.

Tip: The hill up to the wolves is not very stroller or wheelchair friendly.   It is pretty steep for wheels and very rocky.

6) Safari Park Hike

Depending on your time constraints (and how whiny the kids are!) there is a really easy hike that is in the same location as the bears and wolves.  Just continue along the path to make a loop that shouldn’t take longer than about 30 minutes.  While there are a few “steep” areas, there were plenty of people in flip-flops and young children, which should give a clue that it is a pretty easy “hike” that just about everyone can do.

Hop back in your car for a grand finale of the

Bison Plains

The drive thru zoo has a huge area houses these ginormous creatures (2,000+ pounds!!!) where it’s not uncommon to have them right up at the window of your car.  Obviously, for safety reasons, just remember these are still wild animals and to not feed or pet them…as fun as that might seem to be.

Prairie Dog Town

Finish off your safari trip at the Visitor Center, where you can park your car, see the Prairie Dog Town, play on a small playground, walk around an aviary and of course, have another bathroom break!

Good Things To Know

There are three places to stop for a quick restroom stop.

• At the entrance in the Visitor Center
• Just at the beginning of the drive
• About halfway through the drive at the big parking lot

Where and What to Eat:

• We love bringing picnics to places like this to save a few bucks (can you say cheap frugal???).  There are picnic tables at all the locations mentioned above near the restrooms, as well as scattered throughout the park near other exhibits, like in the shade next to the Eagle Aviary.
• At the visitor center as well as the halfway point in the drive, there are stands to buy some basic foods like chips, hot dogs, popcorn, waters, etc.

Just remember to clean up after yourself and of course, to NEVER feed the animals!

Driving Safety With Children: Should You Let Them Out Of Their Carseats?

Can I get a roll call of all my fellow car seat safety freaks out there???

I was pretty torn about what to do about the kids in the car.  I mean, the whole point of this outing was to go see the wildlife!  I had three under three with me (granted, there were two other adults in the van with us) and on every other day, I am a CAR SEAT SAFETY FREAK!

Now, as we drove around, we saw ALL sorts of situations with kids in the vehicles

• Older kids hanging halfway out the windows excitedly pointing to bison
• Toddlers and babies on the laps of adults
• Kids in the back trunks of SUVS w/ the hitch up!

But, in my family, we have a black and white rule:

If the car is moving, you are buckled in the car seat!!!

Some will argue that you are going 7 miles per hour during this drive!  What the heck could go wrong!?  And I totally agree, but for me, it was more about setting the precedent with my very stubborn, VERY impressionable toddler.

Not only am I just super anal and paranoid about car seat safety, but my 2 year old is in the phase where if you do something ONCE, he expects it again (and throws the ever so fun 2 year old tantrums when it doesn’t happen).  I knew that if I let him out of the car seat for this ONE morning at the safari, that I would be fighting the car seat battle for Lord knows how long.  And I’m sorry, but I’m an exhausted mama, I just don’t want to put up with that.

This meant that yea, he missed a lot of the driving portion of the safari and my 22 month old nephew saw very little at all while in the car.  However, I did what I felt comfortable and safe with.   As the old adage goes, “MY CAR, MY RULES!”

Considering there was plenty to see at the stops where we could get out at, I was perfectly fine with my decision. (Also, there were multiple times that the car was lower than the animals, so my son could still peer out and see SOMETHING….just not maybe a whole herd)  However, if you choose to let your babe out, or sit on your lap, that is also your choice and there were clearly PLENTY of kids doing so.

What To Do Nearby the Wildlife Safari

Kids eat free.

On Thursdays at Round the Bend Steakhouse just about 3 minutes outside the park, kids eat free on Thursdays.  I wouldn’t plan a trip around this in and of itself (food is decent-average).  It’s just always nice to know of a place to save a few bucks with a family!

UPDATE:  Kids no longer eat FREE on Thursdays but now get $2 off their kids menu.  Still not a horrible deal, but it’s probably worth it just to bring your picnic lunch instead to the park 🙂

Eugene T. Mahoney State Park

You can literally see Mahoney State Park from the Safari!  If you are spending a long weekend at Mahoney, this is a fantastic add-on to your itinerary!  We LOVE staying at the Mahoney cabins, going to the pool there and just spending the weekends!  Here is our Mahoney Ultimate Guide if you haven’t checked that out yet!

SAC Museum (Strategic Air Command and AeroSpace)

If you are wanting a full day outing and day trip, spend the morning at the Safari Park and once it’s hot (in the summers) head inside to the Air and Space Museum, just 5 minutes away from the Safari.

Platte State Park

Platte is home to some REALLY great hikes!  If you are wanting some more outdoors, head over here for a fun afternoon before heading home.

Have you been to the Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park in Ashland Nebraska yet?   What were your favorite parts of your safari drive?  I’d love to hear about them in the comments below!

For further information, conservation efforts, exhibits and more, check out the official park’s website here .

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Embarking on an Adventure: The Unparalleled Wildlife Safari in Omaha

A visit to Omaha, Nebraska, doesn’t only mean exploring its stunning urban attractions, but also delving into its untamed natural wonders. Nestled at the heart of Nebraska’s picturesque landscapes, the Wildlife Safari Omaha emerges as a captivating destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

What Makes Wildlife Safari Omaha Unique?

The Wildlife Safari Omaha is a unique conservation park that allows visitors to observe and explore the awe-inspiring beauty and diversity of North America’s wildlife. Unlike traditional zoos, this park offers an immersive, drive-through experience, bringing you up close and personal with various species in a naturalistic habitat setting.

Where Does the Wildlife Safari Omaha Journey Begin?

The adventure starts at the park’s Wolf Canyon, where visitors can observe the North American Grey Wolf. The unique chance to see these fascinating creatures in their natural behavior is a sight to behold.

Is Wolf Canyon The Only Attraction?

Definitely not! After leaving the mesmerizing world of Wolf Canyon, visitors next encounter the majesty of North America’s Bison Plains. Here, you will observe the American Bison, also known as buffalo, roaming freely across the expansive grassland, a sight reminiscent of the once vast, wild herds that dominated the Great Plains.

Are There More Animals to See in the Wildlife Safari Omaha?

Indeed. The park is segregated into different zones, each dedicated to a unique group of species. After the Bison Plains, visitors can explore Elk Meadows, where they can witness robust Elk herds. Next comes Crane Meadows, an enchanting haven for Sandhill Cranes. The adventure concludes at Eagle Aviary, featuring the proud and majestic bald eagles.

How Are the Animals Cared For?

Wildlife Safari Omaha takes animal welfare very seriously. They strive to ensure that all animals live in conditions that mirror their natural habitats as closely as possible. Regular enrichment activities are conducted to maintain their mental and physical wellbeing.

What is the Purpose of Wildlife Safari Omaha?

The principal aim of Wildlife Safari Omaha is to promote conservation. By giving visitors a chance to witness these species in their natural ecosystems, they hope to inspire love and respect for wildlife, encouraging guests to become active participants in conservation efforts.

How Can One Contribute to the Cause?

Visitors can contribute by adopting an animal, donating, or becoming Wildlife Safari Omaha members. These contributions aid in animal care, conservation research, and educational programs that the park runs.

In conclusion, Wildlife Safari Omaha offers an unparalleled experience of North America’s diverse and beautiful wildlife. Every bend in the journey surprises with a new scene of Mother Nature’s grandeur, making it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Omaha. This adventurous endeavor does not only entertain but also educates the public on the importance of wildlife conservation.

Whether you’re a passionate wildlife enthusiast or a family looking for an unforgettable journey, the Wildlife Safari Omaha is ready to take you on a splendid voyage through nature’s most majestic spectacles. So, are you ready to embark on this adventure?

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Wildlife Safari Park & Hiking in Nebraska

• by Erin Huiatt

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Wildlife Safari Park & Hiking in Nebraska

Each spring our family travels to Omaha, Nebraska for a 1-2 day extravaganza visiting our favorite attractions and eating at our favorite restaurants . After a little research, I came across Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park aka Wildlife Safari Park, and Mahoney State Park in Ashland, Nebraska. The Ashland area is the perfect place for families to visit for a long weekend in the Midwest.

Wildlife Safari Park

The Wildlife Safari Park is a part of Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and is a fun adventure for the whole family.

As you enter the park you will see miles of rolling hills, trees, and green. It is gorgeous! The road is long and windy. Drive slow! You do not want to run into any wildlife. From beginning to end it takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes. This is definitely dependent on how much you stop and how crowded it is.

We first animal we came across was the Elk, then we saw three deer eating breakfast right outside our car. It was so neat to see them so close! You can roll down your windows, but you must stay in your car. As you wind through the safari park you will enter several areas where different animals are kept.

There are also a lot of opportunities to get out and explore including a hiking trail to the Grey Wolves and American Black Bears. The short hike is steep, but very shady so you will not get too hot. At the base of where you begin your hike to visit the wolves and bears, you will find a snack shack area and a place to pet and play with goats. This area is called the Hands-On Coral located in Wolf Canyon.

The Sandhill Cranes are also a fun animal to drive by and watch. You will more than likely find a crane crossing the road while you drive through.

You can also take a short walk to the Eagle Aviary from Wolf Canyon. This is a half-acre exhibit and super cool to see up close and in person!

They have a fun nature playscape with a fun small playground where you can overlook the Bison Plains. This is a great place where a lot of people will get out to stretch their legs and watch the bison roam.

Before you leave the park, make sure you stop at the visitor center where you can find some fun souvenirs and Prairie Dog Town.

Operating Hours

9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

Make sure you get there early! We visited on an overcast, chilly Sunday and arrived at 11 a.m. with no wait. When we left the park a little after Noon there was a line out the park.

$9 Adults (12 and over)

$7 Children (3-11)

$8 Seniors (65 and over)

FREE Children 2 and under

If you are an Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo member you receive free admission. There is no discount if you hold a Blank Park Zoo membership . They do offer a Wildlife Safari Park Membership , so if you are planning several visits this may be a great investment.

16406 N. 292nd St, Ashland, Nebraska

Eugene T. Mahoney State Park

When I plan trips like this, I always love to research what else we can experience that is in the area. A friend of mine told me about Eugene T. Mahoney State Park which is literally just next door to the safari. Boy oh boy does this state park offer so much!

After we entered the park we looked for a hiking trail, parked, and ate the picnic lunch we brought along. The hiking trail was a little tricky to find, but we found it and it was so much fun! We parked and entered the trail near the Prairie Wolf Cabins.

The entire trail followed along the Platte River. In areas, you could see beautiful views of the Platte River. The entire path was filled with large trees, steps, bridges, and more. The kids had a ton of fun climbing around and exploring.

After our hike, we decided to drive through the rest of the park and saw many people fishing in the two lakes within the park. This state park also offers a Go Ape Ropes Course, swimming, golf, arts and crafts center, a theater, horse trail rides, camping, cabins and so much more. This would be the perfect place to stay for a long weekend!

28500 West Park Highway, Ashland, NE 68003

The Surfside Club

The Surfside Club located in Omaha, Nebraska is one restaurant that I have visited tons since I was little. If you love catfish, chicken, fritters, and the Missouri River this is the place to be. The Surfside Club is located right along the Missouri River and the majority of its seating is outside. In the Summer they offer live music, a jump house for kids, and more. It is a really fun place to be! On our way back to Des Moines, we made a stop for an early dinner.

CLOSED MONDAYS Tuesday – Friday: 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday: 3 to 10 p.m. Sunday: Noon to 9 p.m.

14445 North River Drive, Omaha, NE  68112

Our little day venture to Ashland, Nebraska was a perfect getaway to explore while everything that is going on in our world. This road trip provided us so much joy and I cannot wait to visit again and explore even more in the future.

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Erin Huiatt

Erin is a reliable resource and stepping stone for women and families to find support and make connections within our community. She wants families to feel confident to reach out and ask for help and advice to get pointed in the right direction. She enjoys traveling and exploring with her two children in tow!

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Drive Through Safari

August 1, 2022

Visitors travel through several distinct “lands” on the drive-through adventure zoo’s road, where they can see Sandhill Cranes, antelope, deer, and a sizable herd of buffalo. In this area of the county, most animals are free to wander. Visitors’ cars can view everything, but a short walk is needed to reach the Wolf Woods part. While outside the vehicle, you can explore the interactive nature exhibits.

Visit Wildlife Safari Park website to know more.

Address: 16406 N. 292 Street Ashland, NE 68003

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A Trip To This Unique Park In Nebraska Is Simply Unforgettable

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Tucked away in Ashland, next to the Platte River and just a short distance from Eugene T. Mahoney state park in Saunders County, is a delightful park where you can experience wildlife in a number of ways. The Lee G. Simmons Conservation Park and Wildlife Safari lets you drive through habitats, hike to see others, and even pet some of the animals.

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The park features more than two miles of hiking trails and a picnic area so you can make a full day of your visit. Find the Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Safari Park off of I80 at exit 426 – 16406 N. 292 Street, Ashland, NE 68003.

For more Nebraska animal fun, check out these facts you may not have known about the Henry Doorly Zoo , and visit this cute little rural zoo in Platte County.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Reconnect with nature at the best zoos, safari parks, and botanical gardens in the US

V isiting zoos, botanical gardens, safari parks, dude ranches, and national wildlife refuges are great ways to get out and explore with our friends and families. You can enjoy beautiful blooms, observe animals you don't often get to see in your daily life, and take in gorgeous scenery.

In our search to find the top spots across six categories, USA TODAY 10Best invited a panel of experts to nominate their picks for the best. Then, readers voted for their favorites to determine the winners — and the results are in .

Click on each category below to see the full winners list:

Best Botanical Garden: Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden in Cincinnati, Ohio

The gardens at the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden include a Butterfly Garden with a variety of plants, a Dinosaur Garden of ferns and conifers, and an Endangered Species Garden devoted to the propagation and preservation of endangered plants. A spring highlight of the botanical garden is the 100,000-bulb tulip display.

Full list of winners: Best Botanical Garden »

Best Dude Ranch: Covered Wagon Ranch in Gallatin Gateway, Montana

First established in 1925, Montana's Covered Wagon Ranch offers a glimpse into the rustic beauty of Big Sky Country. Guests are welcome to embark on a whitewater rafting, fly-fishing, or horseback riding expedition, then return to the property for a night of well-earned rest in one of the ranch's cozy one- or two-bedroom log cabins.

Full list of winners: Best Dude Ranch »

Best National Wildlife Refuge: Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge in Prairie City, Iowa

Home to herds of American bison and elk, the Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge in Prairie City, Iowa, serves as a living example of the historic prairie landscape, offering visitors the chance to observe these iconic species in a natural setting. The refuge is also known for its efforts to restore and preserve tallgrass prairie habitats once prevalent across the Midwest.

Full list of winners: Best National Wildlife Refuge »

Best Safari Park: Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Safari Park in Ashland, Nebraska

An accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Safari Park invites visitors to drive along a 4-mile route through habitats populated by native North American plant and animal species, including American elk, bison, waterfowl, and white-tailed deer. At Wolf Canyon, guests can hop out of the car to see grey wolves and American black bears or walk through the half-acre Eagle Aviary.

Full list of winners: Best Safari Park »

Best Zoo: Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha, Nebraska

Continued investments have allowed Henry Doorly Zoo to continue to offer one-of-a-kind exhibits to guests, including the world’s largest indoor desert where arid plants and animals — peccaries, quail, death adders, rattlesnakes, and inland taipans, the world’s most venomous land snake — are visible inside a geodesic dome year-round in the heart of the Midwest.

The $73 million Scott African Grasslands exhibit features 28 acres of habitats and exhibit spaces for meerkats, giraffes, elephants, lions, cheetahs, and sable antelopes.

Full list of winners: Best Zoo »

Best Zoo Exhibit: Desert Dome at Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo in Omaha, Nebraska

Measuring in at 84,000 square feet across two floors, the Henry Doorly Zoo's Desert Dome serves as the largest indoor desert on all of planet Earth. This towering structure is divided into three separate sections — Namib Desert, Red Center of Australia, and Sonoran Desert, to be precise — with a massive array of native reptiles, birds, mammals, and plants all highlighting the fascinating flora and fauna that thrive in these arid environments.

Full list of winners: Best Zoo Exhibit »

Congratulations to all these winners! Remember to visit 10best.usatoday.com daily to vote in our other Readers' Choice Awards contests.

This article originally appeared on 10Best.com: Reconnect with nature at the best zoos, safari parks, and botanical gardens in the US

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Last-surviving member of omaha's memorial day ceremony pays tribute to fellow founders.

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Veterans and Gold Star families gathered for the Memorial Day service at Memorial Park.

The final founding member hopes the service, which started in 1997, means as much to a new generation.

Ask anyone what today means, and you'll get a different answer.

"Just a chance to get together with people and remember lost friends," Michael Wolfe said.

Crista and Michael Wolfe of Omaha are observing the meaning of this Monday.

"War is not pretty. And sitting here comfy in our lawn chairs, people forget about that pretty easily," Michael Wolfe said.

"I've got four roses to present today," Harley Sanwick, a Vietnam veteran, said.

Sanwick is the last of five founding members who started the ceremony in 1997, when no one showed up to Omaha's Memorial Park for the armed forces.

"We was up here after the donation that statue. We helped put that statue together in '97. We came out Memorial Day, and there was nobody here. I mean, nobody, so we sat here and just talked about it," Sanwick said,

It's still going strong 27 years later as families stake their chairs, embrace the Red, White and Blue, and first responders remember those lost in the line of duty, thanks to a couple of local veterans.

"They started it. I'll keep it going as long as I can do it. Thank you," Sanwick said.

Even elected officials and Offutt Air Force Base generals join in.

"If you didn't get the sense of pride that came out of Harley when he spoke about establishing this," Gen. Anthony J. Cotton, U.S. Strategic Command, said. "Check your pulse and see if you're still breathing."

Just one of the many stories shared with the Wolfe family, like another from the grandson of a World War II veteran.

"And he just said my dad didn't talk about it. And that struck me now because we don't talk about what they went through," Crista Wolfe said.

"It's easy to judge soldiers for what happens over there when most people here will never live it," Michael Wolfe said.

Harley is an in-country combat Vietnam veteran.

He was here picking up flowers and flags when it was all over, and he says he'll do it all again next year.

Click here for the latest headlines from KETV NewsWatch 7

I went on a 2-week safari in South Africa's famous Kruger National Park for just $50 a day

• I went on an epic two-week safari in South Africa's famous Kruger National Park for about $50 a day.
• I camped beneath the stars and saw elephants right from my tent.
• Driving our own car, camping, and preparing our own food saved us money. 

The idea of a South African safari often conjures up images of five-star lodges and luxury game drives — but a holiday in the bush doesn't have to be out of reach for travelers on a tighter budget.

According to a data analysis from Go2Africa , the average traveler heads on South African safaris with a medium-high budget, meaning they spend $5,500 to $6,000 on a trip, an increase from last year.

But, on a recent trip, I found that I was able to have an incredible two-week safari trip in Kruger National Park for about $50 a day.

Here's how I did it and how travelers can save money when planning their safari.

I saved by buying an annual pass

The biggest savings at Kruger National Park can come from buying a Wild Card, an annual pass that gives you a year of access to 80+ parks in southern Africa, including Kruger.

The Wild Card is discounted for South Africans but it cost me 3,780 rands, or about $200, as a foreigner.

Without a Wild Card, I would've had to pay over 486 rands a day to visit Kruger, meaning this pass pays for itself in just over a week.

Overall, my pass came to about 270 rands a day for the two-week trip.

We also stayed in one of Kruger's many rest camps

One of the most immersive ways to experience Kruger is by camping in the South African bush. We saw elephants near our camp and woke up to the sounds of warthogs and hyenas in the distance.

We live in South Africa , so it was easy enough to bring our own camping gear, though travelers can rent a tent, sleeping bags, chairs, and cooking basics from nearby rental companies for a few thousand rands for two weeks.

Kruger National Park has a range of rest camps for different budgets and preferences, whether you prefer to use your own tent or stay in a bungalow with your own kitchen and bathroom.

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Prices also vary depending on the season, so it's wise to avoid really busy months, like September and December. I found that around mid-January to mid-March, two people can camp at Punda Maria, one of Kruger's cheapest camping options, for just 285 rands a night. During high season, prices go up by about 100 rands per night.

My husband and I visited during a less busy season. We camped at Maroela Satellite Camp and Crocodile Bridge Rest Camp for 331 to 349 rands a night.

Cooking our own food saved us money …

We chose to prepare our own meals and braai (a type of South African barbecue) beneath the stars.

Fortunately, most campsites have plug points, braai stands, shared bathrooms, shared kitchens, and shops selling everything you need to braai.

The park also has restaurants and coffee shops scattered throughout it, which is helpful for anyone who wants to purchase food and drinks without leaving the property.

But there's nothing quite like braaiing beneath the stars, watching for the occasional hyena along the fence line.

… and so did doing a self-driving safari

If you don't have your own car, you can rent a sedan for just over 4,000 rands for two weeks. Fortunately, though, there are enough tarred roads in Kruger that you don't need a special 4x4 to enjoy the park.

We ended up self-driving our own car in Kruger National Park, which allowed us to choose our own adventure and be our own guide.

Rest camps have sighting boards on which visitors pin their major animal sightings from that day and the previous day. This makes it easy to follow trends and choose where to search first. There's also an app where visitors post their sightings.

On our last self-drive safari in Kruger, we saw cheetahs and all the Big Five (leopard, elephant, rhino, lion, and African buffalo).

Overall, our trip was affordable and dreamy

We saved money throughout our trip and managed to go on a two-week safari in Kruger National Park for just under $50 a day per person.

This price includes two Wild Cards, petrol for our vehicle, and our camping fees and expenses — and our trip was well worth it.

Watch: A single trail takes hikers to 10 waterfalls near Portland, Oregon — and you can walk it in less than a day

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Three seriously hurt in six-vehicle crash in southwest Omaha

OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) - Omaha Police and Fire personnel responded to an injury collision in southwest Omaha Saturday that left one person pinned.

Omaha Fire Battalion Chief John Stolinski told a 6 News crew at the scene they were called to 153rd and Q Streets around Noon for a crash involving six vehicles.

Three people had to be extricated and were taken to the CUMC-Bergan Mercy trauma center with critical injuries. The conditions of three others are unclear, but are talking with Omaha Police.

This is a developing story. Stay with 6 News for the latest.

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