On Bone Creek

Keller Park State Recreation area is a gem. It is located in northern Brown County just off Highway 183 north of Ainsworth NE in the valley along Bone Creek. There are picnic areas with grills, tables, water and restrooms. The RV sites have electricity, water nearby, tables, grills and fire rings. The pads are sandy and not especially level but all are scenic with trees and shrubs. Tent camping is along the creek and near fishing ponds. Decent pit toilets serve all areas. A campground host arrived soon after we did so he is an information resource.  Cell service is not available in the campground but is can be accessed on higher ground. On a grocery trip to Ainsworth, we used the wi-fi at the library. Fast and friendly!

An unique and memorable site marker is a cattle ear tag seen in the foreground here.

Being in this area in middle May is a wonderful time to watch birds. Many songbirds are migrating through and scant leaf cover on the trees makes them easier to spot. A Spotted Towhee's persistent song mystified me until I was able to get my binoculars on him.  Tiny song sparrows and chipping sparrows, goldfinches and wrens, robins and grosbeaks, pewees and flycatchers. Down by the fishing ponds are yellowthroats and an abundance of red winged blackbirds. A blue heron surprised us by flapping off a perch with a disgusted croak sounding call. Many swallows are busy along the creek and in the air above us. Also in the air are vultures and crows. 

Dave pointed out five deer crossing the campground before breakfast this morning. We see bunnies and turkeys and surmise that their predators are about but out of sight. Two roosts for bats show evidence of use. We will watch for them to fly at dusk. So far there have been very few bugs so sitting outside has been a joy.

This has been a great place to camp. It is a little out of the way but well worth the effort. 

Next stop Springview NE and the Kenaston Jamboree. Yippee!!