Easy 1-day summer trips near Lincoln to enjoy sun and water

Try out any of these day trips to spend some time on the water.
Try out any of these day trips to spend some time on the water.

The Outdoor Adventure Center is once again renting out canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards. Even around Lincoln, there are plenty of beautiful locations to spend a day on the water. Choose your equipment, desired destination, and enjoy your day-long getaway.

You can rent water equipment online from the Outdoor Adventure Center– all other gear rentals are not available at this time.

Canoeing
Only a 31-minute drive from Lincoln, Platte River State Park is a well-maintained area perfect for spending a day on the water. This river is calm and suited for beginners that aren't able to paddle through rapids. There's even a designated entrance point for canoes and kayaks right off the Platte River Water Trail.

Kayaking
If you're in the mood to kayak on a large open lake with picturesque natural surroundings, take the 32-minute drive to Wagon Train State Recreation Area. All boats are welcome on this lake, but a 5 mph speed limit is enforced and there is also a designated swimming beach.

Paddle boarding
One of the most popular recreation lakes in eastern Nebraska, Fremont Lake offers plenty of space for paddle boarding and enjoying the scenery. The area is located three miles west of Fremont and is made up of 20 different lakes– almost all of which are open to non-power water crafts.