
Holmes Lake Park
Holmes Lake Park offers a serene lakeside escape with scenic trails, water sports, and recreational facilities, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere, fewer people

Holmes Lake Park
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere, fewer people

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Holmes Lake Park offers a serene lakeside escape with scenic trails, water sports, and recreational facilities, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
"A great place to fish, kayak, and enjoy nature's beauty, especially during sunset."

🛶 Water Sports Fun
Rent paddleboards or kayaks for a fun day on the lake! Great for families and active individuals.
👟 Safe Running Routes
Holmes Lake is a popular and safe spot for morning runs, even for solo female runners.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tranquil Lakeside Views
Holmes Lake
Experience serene moments by the water, perfect for paddleboarding, kayaking, or simply enjoying the sunset.

Scenic Walking & Running Trails
Park trails
Enjoy well-maintained paths ideal for a refreshing run or a leisurely stroll amidst nature.

Observatory Stargazing
Holmes Lake Park Observatory
Glimpse the cosmos or witness celestial events like solar eclipses from this unique vantage point.

Active Recreation Hub
Picnic areas, fields, courts
From baseball and volleyball to sailing races, the park buzzes with diverse sporting activities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Park Etiquette & Safety
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛶 Water Sports Fun
Rent paddleboards or kayaks for a fun day on the lake! Great for families and active individuals.
👟 Safe Running Routes
Holmes Lake is a popular and safe spot for morning runs, even for solo female runners.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Capture stunning sunset photos over the lake; the golden hour here is truly breathtaking.
⛳ Golf with a View
The public golf course offers a scenic round of golf with beautiful parkland surroundings.
Tips
from all over the internet
🛶 Water Sports Fun
Rent paddleboards or kayaks for a fun day on the lake! Great for families and active individuals.
👟 Safe Running Routes
Holmes Lake is a popular and safe spot for morning runs, even for solo female runners.
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Capture stunning sunset photos over the lake; the golden hour here is truly breathtaking.
⛳ Golf with a View
The public golf course offers a scenic round of golf with beautiful parkland surroundings.
🔭 Celestial Spectacles
Check for events at the observatory, especially for unique astronomical occurrences like eclipses.
♻️ Leave No Trace
Help keep the park pristine by cleaning up after yourself, especially in picnic areas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Holmes Lake Park for its beautiful lakeside scenery, excellent walking trails, and diverse recreational activities like fishing and water sports. It's a popular spot for families and fitness enthusiasts, offering a great outdoor escape. Some reviews mention occasional litter and past maintenance concerns, but overall, it's considered a valuable community asset.
"We had a great time. My girls are first time paddle boarders and now they want one. It will keep them active and give us the opportunity to be outside as a family. This is a win-win!!"
Rajuy Elbey
"Nice place to fish in any season and has good walking paths. You can also kayak and paddleboard here."
Jacque Letts
"Do not take your children to the park. The top of the stairs is rusted and lots of sharp metal edges (see picture). My child sliced her leg when climbing up. The park supervisor is aware of the situation and has not fixed or closed this area of the park.
Edit have since talked to the supervisor and was informed they have now closed off this area. I have not been back to check but wanted to add here that hopefully it is being taken care of"
Heather Haller
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Holmes Lake Park is located in Lincoln, Nebraska. It's accessible by car, with ample parking available, especially on weekdays. Public transportation options might be limited, so driving is often the most convenient way to reach the park.
Yes, there are several parking areas throughout the park, including near the lake, sports fields, and the observatory. Parking can become limited on busy weekends or during special events.
Absolutely! The park has scenic trails that are great for cycling. Many locals bike to the park to enjoy the trails and lake.
Many of the main paths and picnic areas are paved and accessible. However, some natural trails might be uneven. It's best to check specific areas if accessibility is a concern.
The park has a network of walking paths and some paved roads. A map of the park can be helpful, but it's also easy to explore on foot or by bike.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Holmes Lake Park is a public park and generally does not require an entrance fee for general access. Some specific facilities or events might have associated costs.
The park is typically open from dawn to dusk. Specific facilities like the observatory may have separate hours, so it's advisable to check their schedule.
While the park itself is free to enter, if you plan to rent equipment like paddleboards or kayaks, you'll likely need to book those rentals in advance or upon arrival, depending on the vendor.
Typically, pets are allowed in Holmes Lake Park but must be kept on a leash. Always check local park regulations for the most current pet policies.
Some picnic areas might be reservable for larger gatherings, but many are first-come, first-served. It's best to arrive early on busy days if you need a specific spot.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking, running, cycling, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, picnicking, playing baseball, volleyball, and visiting the observatory. Sailing races are also a popular sight.
Yes, Holmes Lake is a popular spot for fishing year-round, offering a good opportunity to catch various fish species.
While the park offers many recreational activities, specific playground equipment details can vary. Some reviews mention potential safety concerns with older structures, so always supervise children closely.
The western shores of the lake offer the most spectacular sunset views, with the water reflecting the vibrant colors of the sky. The area near the observatory is also a great spot.
Drone usage is often permitted in parks, but regulations can vary. Some videos show drone footage, suggesting it's possible, but it's wise to check local FAA and park guidelines.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no restaurants located directly within Holmes Lake Park. Visitors typically bring their own food for picnics or dine at nearby establishments in Lincoln.
The park has numerous picnic areas with tables and grills scattered throughout. Areas near the lake and sports fields are popular choices for a scenic meal.
Yes, many picnic areas are equipped with grills, making it a great spot for a BBQ. Remember to follow park guidelines for safe grilling.
Food vendors are not a regular feature within the park. It's best to pack your own snacks and meals or plan to eat before or after your visit.
Given the family-friendly atmosphere and recreational activities, classic picnic fare like sandwiches, salads, grilled items, and snacks are popular choices.
📸 📸 Photography
The lake itself, especially during sunrise and sunset, offers stunning reflections and vibrant colors. The observatory and surrounding landscapes also provide great photographic opportunities.
Absolutely! The park is home to various bird species, including ducks, and offers beautiful natural scenery, making it ideal for nature photographers.
Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but offers good opportunities for capturing activities.
Drone footage is possible and has been captured here, offering unique aerial perspectives of the lake and park. Always ensure you comply with drone regulations.
Events like the solar eclipse have drawn photographers to the park, and the Thursday night sailboat races offer dynamic action shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the park offers many recreational activities, it's always wise to supervise children closely, especially near water and on trails. Some older playground equipment might require extra caution, but the overall environment is conducive to family enjoyment. The open spaces are ideal for running around and playing games.
🏃♀️ Runners and Fitness Enthusiasts
The park's scenic beauty adds to the running experience, providing a refreshing escape. Whether you're training for a race or just enjoy a good jog, the variety of paths and the natural surroundings make Holmes Lake Park an excellent choice for your fitness routine.
📸 Photographers and Nature Lovers
From capturing the serene water vistas to the architectural interest of the observatory, there's a wide range of subjects. Drone enthusiasts can also capture unique aerial perspectives of the park's landscape.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Embracing the Outdoors: Activities at Holmes Lake Park
Beyond water and trail activities, Holmes Lake Park is equipped for various sports and recreation. It features baseball fields and sand volleyball courts, often bustling with local leagues and casual games. The park also hosts sailboat races, offering a lively spectacle for spectators. For a unique experience, the Holmes Lake Park Observatory provides opportunities for stargazing and observing celestial events, drawing crowds for significant astronomical occurrences.
Picnicking and grilling are also popular pastimes, with numerous picnic areas and grills available throughout the park. Whether you're looking for a peaceful nature escape, an active day of sports, or a chance to connect with the cosmos, Holmes Lake Park offers a rich outdoor experience. Remember to pack out what you pack in to help maintain the park's beauty.
Capturing the Beauty: Photography at Holmes Lake Park
The Holmes Lake Park Observatory adds another dimension for photographers, particularly during special events like solar eclipses, which have drawn significant crowds and photographic interest. Drone photography also offers unique perspectives, showcasing the expansive landscape and the interplay of water and land from above.
Whether you're using a professional camera or just your smartphone, the park provides numerous picturesque spots. The trails, the lakefront, and the open green spaces all contribute to a visually rich environment. Remember to be mindful of park visitors and wildlife while you're capturing your shots.
Community Insights: What Locals and Visitors Say
However, some reviews point to potential issues, such as maintenance concerns in certain areas, with one visitor noting a safety hazard that has since been addressed. Litter can also be an issue in busy areas, underscoring the importance of the 'leave no trace' principle. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall sentiment is positive, with many appreciating the park as a valuable outdoor recreation space in Lincoln.
Social media content often showcases the park's aesthetic appeal, with stunning sunset shots and drone footage highlighting its natural charm. These visual snippets, combined with Reddit discussions about safety and activities, provide a well-rounded perspective for potential visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit