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Although its actual age has not been determined, it is possible that Indian Cave has existed for several thousand years. It is a natural formation, created by silt and fine-grained sand deposits in a Pennsylvanian rock channel. Petroglyphs or ancient Indian picture writings etched on the walls of the cave are the only known example of their kind found in Nebraska. However, their cultural origin and period in history remain a mystery.
The petroglyphs depict forms, shapes, and scenes, most of the elements of nature, mostly wildlife. The cave, with its mysterious picture carvings, is easily accessible to park visitors. Unfortunately, many of the ancient petroglyphs have been obscured or destroyed by the later gougings of modern-day visitors. So, please help guard the fragile history of this unique spot and discourage anyone from defacing the sandstone.
Approximately 300 feet south of the cave is a coal shaft. It was originally worked by a Mr. Deaver, who lived on the bottom ground and used the coal to heat his house. The coal was very poor quality.
RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES
Indian Cave offers exceptional experiences for campers, hikers, backpacker anglers, horseback riders, winter sports enthusiasts, and picnickers.
Camping areas can accommodate 225 units and are equipped with picnic table, firerings, showers, restrooms, and electrical hookups. There are two Laundromats located at the showerhouses. A fee is charged for camping, and stays are limited to 14 days. All camping is on a first-come first-served basis, and there is an extra charge for electrical hookups. Check-out time is 2 p.m., and campers planning to stay over must re-register by that time.
For hikers, there are some 20 miles of trails. The north road trails are recommended for day hikers, since there are several picnic shelters, many tables, and toilets located along the way. The rest of the park trails are better suited to overnight users. However, hikers are welcome to explore any of the trails through the parks.
Horseback riders will enjoy the trail ride through the park. Rides start at the corral near the St. Deroin Schoolhouse and cover about three miles. Tickets are available at the Booth and should be purchased early in the day.
Although there are no boat ramps at the park, bank fishermen find plenty of action from the mighty Missouri River for catfish, bass, bullheads, carp, and occasionally, a sturgeon. Three parking lots offer handy access to the river for anglers. For boaters, there is access to the Missouri at Brownville State Recreation Area, just 15 miles north of the park.
Winter sports are becoming increasingly popular at Indian Cave, with its picturesque and semi-rugged terrain. Some 16 miles of trails are marked for cross-country skiing, and the best snow cover usually occurs in January and February. Since park roads are closed during the winter, they offer some excellent sledding, as do several of the steep hillsides.
Weekend visitors will want to take in the program at 9:15 p.m. each Friday and Saturday during the summer season at the amphitheater. A cookout is offered at 6-6:30 p.m. Saturdays at North Shelter Area. Tickets are available at the Booth. Live entertainment is provided until 7 p.m.
Group camping is available to organizations, such as the Scouts, 4-H, churches, and the like. Such groups are assigned an area without electrical hookups, but there is ready access to drinking water. Groups should contact the park office in advance to make arrangements for their trip.
Overnight backpackers will find several parking lots strategically located for their use. Adirondac shelters are situated on the ridges overlooking the park, while more, primitive campsites are located along the hiking trails. To accommodate large backpacking groups, there is a group camp area atop Rock Bluff Ridge. It has three Adirondac shelters, firerings, tables, and toilets. There is a water pump just a half mile away. However, large groups who want to use the group camp facility should contact the park office in advance of their trip.
This is a fascinating area with scenic vistas, hundreds of birds and other wildlife, and many varieties of plants that are unique in Nebraska. Indian Cave offers walkers and hikers a real opportunity to view close up some of nature's many and varied wonders.
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