Nebraska's winter weather may be difficult to predict, but one thing is for sure: The state's park areas offer a wide variety of winter activities for the entire family. It doesn't matter if snow is on the ground; a winter state park visit can be a refreshing, relaxing, and much-needed break. These parks are part of Nebraska's diverse landscape - and so are the activities available during the winter months. Sportsmen may enjoy hunting and fishing, children could go ice skating or sledding, and wildlife enthusiasts may enjoy winter camping and hiking.

Nebraska's state park areas never close, so bundle up and come out and enjoy the scenery and fun that the state has to offer. A park entry permit is required for all park visits.

Here is a look at some of the activities available at Nebraska's state park areas:

Cabins and Lodges - A weekend getaway could include a relaxing stay at a state park. Cabins and lodge rooms are offered, with 30-percent winter discounts on cabins Sunday through Thursday, excluding holidays. Year-round cabins are available at Eugene T. Mahoney, Platte River and Niobrara state parks (SP), as well as Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area (SRA). Ask for a cabin with a fireplace.

Camping - Restless or in serious need of some outdoor time? Pack the gear and head to a state park area for some camping. Take advantage of winter rates, reduced crowds, and crisp temperatures. Electricity is available year-round. Hike, fish, or hunt during the day, then warm up to a crackling fire and enjoy a clear star-filled night sky.

Hunting - State recreation areas, or portions thereof, are open to hunting, subject to general hunting regulations, from the first Tuesday following Labor Day through the conclusion of the spring turkey season in May, unless prohibited or restricted by signs or specific area regulations. You may not hunt within 100 yards of any public-use facility or activity area, including picnic areas, campgrounds, private cabins, concession areas, boat ramps, and parking lots.

Sledding and Tobogganing - Why not bring the family to Eugene T. Mahoney State Park for some fun on the snow? If Mother Nature doesn't supply the snow but brings colder temperatures, the park can make snow for the sledding and toboggan run behind the Lee and Helene Sapp Riverview Lodge.

Ice Skating - Maybe another trip to Eugene T. Mahoney State Park could include an afternoon at the outdoor ice skating rink at the Activity Center, where skate rental is available. Skating is allowed at all recreation areas, but skaters must be sure the ice is safe.

Fishing - Rainbow trout are stocked in the fall to create winter fishing opportunities in many Nebraska waters, including some state park areas. If fishing through the ice, anglers should make sure the ice is safe. Trout can be caught at Fremont Lakes SRA Lake No. 5, Eugene T. Mahoney State Park's Qwest Lake, Fort Robinson SP's Carter P. Johnson Lake, Windmill SRA Lake No. 1, and Arnold SRA. Largemouth bass, bluegill and crappie await anglers at Wagon Train, Olive Creek, Summit Lake, Willow Creek, and Alexandria SRAs. Other options include Merritt, Sherman, Swanson, Rock Creek, Red Willow, Enders, and Medicine Creek reservoirs, and Lake Ogallala SRAs. Also try the Valentine National Wildlife Refuge and other Sandhills lakes.

Trails - Winter nature hikes are great way to get some exercise, view wildlife and enjoy the outdoors. The state has excellent trails, which always are open. If snow is on the ground, enjoy cross country skiing or snowmobiling. Branched Oak and Lewis and Clark state recreation areas provide great snowmobile trails.

Bald Eagle Viewing - Watch these birds as they catch fish from Lake Ogallala at the Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District's viewing facility below the south end of Kingsley Dam. The best days to view them are the last two weeks in January. The facility is open by appointment during the week and 8 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Call (308) 284-2332.