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The forces of nature have sculpted a peculiar landscape at Toadstool Park, where hills composed mostly of sand and clay -- bare and severely eroded -- protrude from the grassland like some great mountain range in miniature. Just as fanciful are the landmarks that give the park its name. These "toadstools" were created when harder rocks were left perched atop softer materials that have been eroded away and now form pillars. Delightfully different from the rolling Sand Hills and sweeping plains found elsewhere in Nebraska's heartland, they are a whimsy to see and a pleasure to explore.
12. Fort Robinson State Park
This large state park occupies the land of a 19th-century army post. Before the military ever arrived, however, the area was Sioux country. In fact, Crazy Horse, one of the tribe's great leaders, died here -- under mysterious circumstances.
Take some time to explore the park's roads, which offer not only fine scenic views of the countryside but also lead to the grazing grounds of bison herds. It is estimated that in the past some 60 million of these animals roamed across the Great Plains. Reduced to near extinction by the late 1800s, the mighty creatures have been making a slow but steady comeback.
Any time is a good time to observe the herd, but during the later summer months, the bulls add a special note of drama; stirring up dust with their huge, powerful hooves, they threaten and charge other males in battles over mating rights. The winners of these encounters are guaranteed the largest harems, which can consist of up to 50 cows, and the calves are usually born in late May and early June.
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