Mahoney State Park Family Aquatic Center

About

The Family Aquatic Center at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park offers one of Nebraska's best warm-weather escapes. Located between Omaha and Lincoln along the Platte River, this water park combines thrilling slides with accessible pool areas in a stunning natural setting. Two new waterslides launching from a 45-foot tower were added in 2024, giving thrill-seekers even more reason to visit.

Beyond the slides, the aquatic center features a variety of water play areas suitable for all ages. Younger children can splash through spray features and wade in shallow pools, while older visitors enjoy deeper swimming areas and the excitement of the slide complex. The whole family can spend hours here without running out of things to do.

The aquatic center is just one part of the larger Mahoney State Park experience. The park itself spans over 700 acres and includes a lodge, cabins, hiking trails, horseback riding, and the popular Venture Climb climbing wall. Many families make a full weekend of it, staying at the Peter Kiewit Lodge or in one of the park's cabins and fitting in water park time alongside other adventures.

A Nebraska State Park vehicle entry permit is required to access the park, and the aquatic center has its own admission fees and seasonal hours. It's wise to check the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission website before your visit for the latest schedule, pricing, and any weather-related closures. The park sits right off Interstate 80, making it an easy stop for road trips across the state.

Whether you're cooling off on a hot summer afternoon or planning a multi-day family getaway, the Family Aquatic Center delivers a refreshing mix of excitement and relaxation in one of Nebraska's most popular state parks.

Accessibility

Eugene T. Mahoney State Park has made efforts to welcome visitors of all abilities. The park offers handicapped-accessible cabins and lodge rooms, and many areas feature paved paths suitable for wheelchair users. The Venture Climb climbing wall is specifically noted as ADA-accessible, showing the park's commitment to inclusive recreation.

For the Family Aquatic Center specifically, accessibility details such as pool lifts, zero-depth entry areas, or accessible changing rooms are not widely published online. Contact the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission directly at (402) 944-2523 for current information about aquatic center accessibility features, including any assistive equipment available for water access.

Parking at the park is generally well-maintained, and the facilities around the lodge and main activity areas are designed to accommodate visitors with mobility needs. The park's paved pathways connect many of the key attractions, though some natural trail areas may present challenges for wheelchair users.

If you or someone in your group has specific accessibility needs, it's best to call ahead before your visit. Staff can provide up-to-date details on which features are accessible, any temporary closures or construction, and what accommodations can be arranged. The park strives to provide adventure-based opportunities for those of all ages and abilities.

More accessible places in Nebraska

• Museum of American Speed (Lincoln)
• University of Nebraska State Museum - Morrill Hall (Lincoln)
• Lincoln Children’s Zoo (Lincoln)
• Sunken Gardens (Lincoln)
• Haymarket Park (Lincoln)
• Joslyn Art Museum (Omaha)